Home depot sells T8 shoplights for $6.50. Their top of the line T8 shoplight has a nice big reflector, at $25. Both of these models have a nearly identical electronic ballast which is much more efficient than the usual fluorescent ballasts. T8 in general produces more useable light per watt than the larger T12 bulbs. These bulbs also claim very little color/strength deterioration - no need to replace for 2 years. You can get 48" F32T8/741 bulbs for $2 each. Some highly regarded bulbs - cheaper but better than "aquarium" or gro bulbs - are GE SPX50 and Philips ADV850 which has a higher PAR rating than metal halide lighting! See http://www.aquabotanic.com/lightcompare.htm