and I'll say it again. The search for the "perfect" light is fruitless. There is no "one" answer. Too many factors play into it: price, space size, heat exchange ability, grow style (just to name a few).
IMHO, the trick is to find the balance between the factors in YOUR specific situation, then pick the best solution. There is no free lunch. It is largely a zero sum game. When you push on one thing, something else pops out which needs to be solved.
The discussion here is great! It highlights the strengths and weaknesses of each light, within different applications, to help us make the right decision for us.
My hats off to mist, Jose, et. al. for their work and contributions. I have benefited greatly and chose 2 fluorex lights for my space. It was the right solution point, at this time, for my specific situation.
You can see pics in my journal.
Good luck all.
Choader