I bought one at the local wally-mart @ a month ago or so (check my diary), and I think it's a good light. But I agree, it's sadly lacking in red spectrum.
Also, there's some fine print on the bottom of the box that all might be interested in knowing about, too.
Brightness lumens and resulting light coverage claims are based on scientific studies conducted at Lawrence Berkley Laboratories on photopic luminance and perceived room brightness. Brightness lumens are not equivalent to photopic lumens, as referenced in ANSI photometric test procedures, and should not be confused with lumen measurements in photometric test.
Basically, I think the 8255 number is a sales pitch. As I stated, I have had one for a while now - don't get me wrong...it is a bright sucker! I could see putting 2 or 3 into a smaller, well ventilated space and having good success with them. Again, there's also the need for supplemental flouros richer in the red end for budding. My GE
Cool Star provides me with a smidgen more in that department (only because I can't fit my big `ol shop light in there comfortably!). Ergo, my buds are a bit bigger than they would have been with just the Flourex. But still not nearly as big as they could be with even a 70W HPS let alone a 400W or bigger. It's a case of expendable income with me, (can't spend any!
) so I stick with my flouros. If I ever had the cash, I would absolutely go for an HPS for flowering. The results speak for themselves.
Stay Green!
E.C.