Refurb Metal Halide?

This is on Ebay for $85.00 USD, should I be thrilled or what? I know the bulb is not ideal, but it would work for a while. This is for a 40 gal.


400 Metal Halide Aquarium Light w/ 10k bulb

Ready to plug into household current! This auction is for a refurbished 400 metal halide aquarium light. This system comes with a 10k bulb made by Plus Lighting. This system comes with a refurbished ballast. The housing will either be brown or white. The ballast is made by Hitek Lighting. Buyer pays $20 for shipping for the first light and $15 for each additional light. We accept paypal, money orders, cash and visa/ mastercard! Happy Bidding!!!

I found out why this is so cheap. It's another example of aquarists being ripped off by the trade.

Metal Halide ballasts suitable for a planted tank are very affordable when purchased from a reputable hydroponic source, OR a reputable industrial lighting supplier.

I found a 175w ballast locally for $69.99. Add a reflector kit w/ mogul for $50, and you have a total cost of $119.99. About the same as the other ballast with shipping.

Hydroponic stores also sell T5 lighting (suitable for hanging, or mounting in a hood) for a fraction of Coralife or Current USA prices.

I have been researching lighting solutions for my new 40g planted tank for the last couple of weeks. The one main thing I have learned is that the Aquarium trade is a giant scam.