Beginner to lights

[jeremyinsf]

So this is a lighting post, but it’s beginner, so I hope it’s OK here!

I basically have a few questions about how to proceed with setting up artificial lighting. I have read several other threads on here and still feel very lost.

I am looking at a Hrdrofarm hood, a 600w Phantom Digital Dimmable Ballast, and some sort of HPS or MH bulb to go with it. I want to light a 4’x4’ area. *Most of my plants are Paph’s and anticipate that will continue*. I got several new Multiflorals this year that are going to need more light than my frosted window in San Francisco is going to give them. Some heat from the light is OK and probably welcomed. From what I have heard, I will like to ‘look’ at the MH light (color) moreso than the HPS which is very red. Since these are strong lights, I anticipate having to have them a few feet above the plants. I have done great with windowsill growing of Paphs but want to take it to the next level. Since it’s summer things are fine now, but I don’t think they will be when it starts to get dark again.

Questions:
- Is this too much light for these plants, and if so, what range should I look at? The ballast dims to 60%, 75%, and 100%. I have seen the 150w systems, and then others that have talked about 1000w with Paphs. So very confused here.
- HPS vs MH – any thoughts? How it will grow the plants, how it will look, and how much light? Do I need both and switch them at different times of year?
- Am I just way off base all around???

Thanks!