Wow-
I would have said that I was the only one using metal halide for seedlings... I also use 250W metal halide for seedlings, with a standard spider reflector. I would add to dcarch's list that the spectrum is fuller, closer to sunlight, and includes a bit of the UV and infrared ends of the spectrum. The former toughens up the plants and the latter provides warmth.
The biggest thing to be aware of when using these is that you really can fry the plants if you don't adjust the distance properly. Speaking of which, I can grow up large, sturdy seedlings without adjusting the height of the light. With the flourescents the light has to be right on top of them or else I get leggy plants.
All that said, I do have several custom plant stands with 1020 trays directly below flourescent lights. I just don't usually use them for heat-lovers or quick-to-plant-outside seedlings like tomatoes and peppers.
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