Single-ended vs. Double-ended MH Bulbs

[Wippit]

What's the difference between the two? It seems that double-ended MH is all the rage, but I've been told there are pros and cons to both, though nothing specific.

Thoughts?

[Wippit]

Here's one answer from Reef Central by the user "Dots":

http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2007-03/sj/index.php

http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2002-06/jg/index.php

They are just two different ways to make light. Read the articles, and they will give some more specifics.....

In a nutshell, DE's tend to be even more of a point source than SE's and tend to be a little more focused. This allows them to punch down into deeper tanks before the light is absorbed.

Therefor, DE's on a shallow tank could be too much and cause areas of extreme shadows.

Both are popular and have thier place. People as well have their opinions and preferences on both.

As far a power/spectrum differences, they vary bulb to bulb, on different combinations of ballasts, and wattages and K.

Most reefers will have a box of "spare" bulbs while trying to find the right "look", which provides great results to boot. Don't get caught up in that too much and make sure you like looking at the tank, despite the crazy growth from super yellow 6500K bulbs.

If your trying to decide on which way to go, it also depends on your tank size, canopy, stocking choices, and other considerations.

....read above first.

A source for estimating and comparing:

http://www.manhattanreefs.com/lighting

[Chrispar]

im waiting on Mike's answer lol

[offroadodge]

ok so another thought, SE bulbs dont require a glass to shield the UV rays, DBL ended you have to have a glass shield between the bulb and water. +1 for the shadowing comment,SE do tend to disperse light in one area as where DBL Ended dont as much. JMO