Thinking about getting CMH bulb instead of HPS for flowering worth it?

[JCave]

I read a lot of benefits to using CMH bulbs for flowering over HPS, the main one that stands out for me is that its CMH at watt for watt produces less heat then HPS.

I am interested on getting a 400W CMH bulb since that is what I read is the highest watt available. I was interested on getting 400-600watt HPS but since this is my first grow I want to use something lowest wattage and least heat, so I picked the 400w CMH.

What confused me is that about CMH and HPS, do I need ballast, or do I just buy the system (I am interested in Sun System II) and plug a bulb in it?

I an currently ~5 weeks in my DWC grow (with CFL lights), so I am thinking about flowering now.

 

[RedCarpetMatches]

You must have an 400 watt HPS MAGNETIC ballast only for CMH. CMH doesnt run on digital!!! I've converted to CMH IN THE 400 category. If you want higher wattage...go with HPS. Philips retro white are the only CMH bulbs you really want...GE doesnt come close. CMH = indoor sun

 

[Maphyr]

You must have an 400 watt HPS MAGNETIC ballast only for CMH. CMH doesnt run on digital!!! I've converted to CMH IN THE 400 category. If you want higher wattage...go with HPS. Philips retro white are the only CMH bulbs you really want...GE doesnt come close. CMH = indoor sun

Thought Philips has like 800w bulbs now? http://advancedtechlighting.com/cdmea860.htm

I run the 400w retro whites too, for both veg and flower.

 

[dusty82]

I'm running a Philips 1000w MH on a mag ballast, seems to be working pretty damn good.

 

[NiigataOp]

The GE bulb will however work in most ballast. That's what I've been using and love it.