Phase 1 of re-lighting my study is complete

[Mark R]

Replaced a CFL in paper shade with a modern electronic diffused, low-glare, fluorescent strip.

It's a nice light, but it came with the cheapest tubes imaginable - and the light color quality is even worse than the CFL - although it's a bit more of an work-inducive color temperature (3500K instead of 2700K).

I'm going to have to hurry up and get those decent tubes I'd been planning.

I'd originally thought of getting some 'northlight' type tubes (6500 K), but am now wondering whether they might be too blue, and that it would be better to go for a slightly warmer 5000 K. I know 6500 K is heavily advertised as being good for offices, 'heath-enhancing' and all that stuff - but I don't know whether to believe it.

Obligatory pic

 

[mercanucaribe]

Sunlight color temperature bulbs are too blue!

 

[Safeway]

5000K is best, IMO.

 

[Mark R]

Any more opinions?

Just found an interesting research article about productivity and lighting in offices. Apparently, in one study the use of 17,000 K lights increased office productivity by 10% as well as increased feelings of well being, blah, blah. Philips now offer 17000 K lights for 'promoting wellbeing and productivity' in offices.

I must confess, I've never seen 17000 K, but I'm sure my local supplier would sell me some if I asked nicely. I'm struggling to believe it would be a particularly nice light to work under.