Anyone running 400 watt SE 20K radiums?

[sonofgaladriel]

If so, how 'bright' are they? Do you like them?
I'm thinking of upgrading from 14K to 20K's but not sure the 20K will be 'bright' enough for my anemones (rose BTA's, green BTA, green haddoni, blue base ritteri, and expecting a couple of giganteas).
Any opinions?
Thanks.

[traveller7]

Have run Radiums on 400wt Bluelines, 20k blue on this ballast but I would not call them bright.

Local keeper ran Radiums on PFO HQI's, less blue very bright. Very happy SPS in that tank too.

IMHO, Radiums are more then enough for BTAs and haddoni.
IME, magnifica does better with 10K.

I have zippo experience with gigantea.

[Gary Majchrzak]

I've had 400w SE Radiums on a Blueline eballast, too.
I don't know if I'd call switching from 14k to 20k an "upgrade".
In fact, my present 400w 14k Hamilton gives me very similar results as a 400w 20k Radium at a fraction of the cost.
If I had to make a generalized anecdotal statement about anemones and artificial lighting it would be that all of the anemones I've ever kept appear to do much better when kept under lighting that produces more PAR.

[sonofgaladriel]

Thanks for the input guys. I'm trying the radiums (buying used) to see if the 20K can bring out some more color.
I'll try them but can always go back to my 14Ks.

[traveller7]

Originally posted by sonofgaladriel
Thanks for the input guys. I'm trying the radiums (buying used) to see if the 20K can bring out some more color.
I'll try them but can always go back to my 14Ks.

IME, Radiums do not last long, be cautious with used ones.

[Ron Popeil]

at the 400w level, the XM 20ks have more PAR than the radiums....its what im currently using over both my 60 and 45 gallon cubes. i used radiums for years prior, but now, i think ill stick with the XMs. i do enjoy their color and their brightness over the radiums.