an hps is obviously going to be better than any type of fluorescent light. but you do what you can. hps takes up alot more room, generates alot more heat and pull alot more energy. if you're not prepared to be using an HPS light, then don't. Personally, i'm in an apartment.. i use CFL's...and i've good results so far.. and i'll have even more results in 3-4 weeks from now. i won't go to an HPS or anything larger until i'm either in a larger apartment or a house to call my own. the worst thing to do is to bite off more than you can chew...you'll choke.

All i'm sayin is know your limits...and be smart.