Steve- from what I have read, in terms of spectrum UVL is reporting them to be the same. Although its a bit subjective when it comes to the actual hue of the T5, I think the general consensus in past years was that they just arent as deep in the violet/indigo coloring, although, a solid 2nd place.
I was curious to how many of us on marsh just cant quit them. I want to go back. I already have my MHs going
I would try a LED strip but I can get into a couple of T12s for about a quarter of the cost of 1 strip or less looking at used ballasts.