Question on MH ballast

[Allamand]

I was wondering from all you reefers out there that run MH lights.
Is there a big difference in the power used by the different types of
ballast?
Bulb life, heat given off by the bulb...

I know there are 3 main types, Magnetic, Magnetic Pulse start, and
electronic. What would you say to buy if starting out. Also, do most bulbs
work with any type? Not referring to the HQI either.

TIA

[Chief Ephor]

There are a few articles in Aquarium Frontier as well as two online
magazines (www.reefs.org and www.reefkeeping.com) with data and reveiws on
MH ballast. Check them out.
bye -ck-