hey headshake,
it includes a 1000 watt 120/240v dimmable digital ballast with 1000, 750, and 600w settings. The pump is a 50 psi/27 GPH pump. As far as the PVC rings, it's something that is unique to the system because as far as I know you can't buy PVC with that curvature in that size, I could be wrong. Sure, you can make use of an octagon shape, the down side is all the 45º pieces. I know they're not as cheap as using two solid pieces to create a ring, with 2 couplings. Also, with all the connectors you have to watch for leaks if you're going to be able to pull the ring apart to remove any root debris after each growâ?? this system uses gasketed fitting that can be pulled apart and reattached without glue. With a rectangle you're already losing efficiency because of the dead space in the corners. But, ultimately this isn't for a DIY type person as far as we can see. This kind of turnkey system was meant (as someone stated previously somewhere) for the beginner and for the professional who doesn't have time to build his own. And considering the price margin for some other vertical grow systems, this price point isn't too bad, and as the journal will show, it's efficiency is pretty decent, maybe not the best but pretty decent. I appreciate your comments.