IceCap 175w MH, new style?

[Lars]

I am looking at getting a 175W MH setup for a 37 gal. I can get a ballast from Reefgeek for $79 (http://www.reefgeek.com/lighting/Metal_Halide/IceCap/Ballasts/Metal_Halide_Ballast:_1-175W_Universal_by_IceCap).

However, places like Oceanencounter are advertising a "new version" (http://oceanencounter.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=OE&Product_Code=I1MHB&Category_Code=ICMH)

I am assuming that the one at reefgeek is the old version, on clearance. So, what is the difference? Anyone know?

I also looked at T5 setups but it seems that will be more expensive. I don't want to start a coke vs pepsi battle. But does anyone have a suggestion for something I might be missing?

Thanks!

Lars.

[David Grigor]

You will find some info on RC in the Icecap forum on old vs. new style.

I ran across it the other day, I believe the new style is less electrical noise ( most people don't have an issue ), better heat dispersion from the ballast itself to increase ballast life, and may be a slight performance boost. They won't come right out and say it but appears to be around 10%.

At the 175W version, 14K Iwsaki is the bulb of choice with the icecap ballast.

[Lars]

Thanks David!