Is there any reason to NOT mix 2 different wattage CFL bulbs in a multi socketed head - you know the cheap softbox kind that takes 6 bulbs and has 2 power switches so you can turn on 1 bank at a time? My thinking is that rather than have 2 options (half & full), I can have 3 options (3x30 watt, 3x85 watt and both).

The ballast is in the bulb so should not be an issue - right? Especially if bulbs are from same manufacture and have same temp & CRI?

Am I missing something?

Sample of multi socket head.. but there are dozens of them out there
Linco#PE9030 | Linco Flora Fluorescent Light Bank | Fluorescent Light Kits | lincostore.com (http://briteklight.com-www.briteklight.com/product/Linco-PE9030-3350.html)

As long as you don't exceed the voltage/amperage of the fixture, you should be OK.
Ken

Seems like a missed advertising opportunity for just about EVERY single multi-bank seller out there. "Not 1, not 2, but 3 possible settings"....

"But wait...there's more!"
You can have 2, count them 2 different color temperatures in the same fixture. 3 3200k bulbs and 3 5500k bulbs, each bank operated with it's own switch.

Ken

I often run 2x85 plus 2x45 in the same fixture. The only disadvantage is you end up with a softbox that's physically larger to handle the heat of lights that you're not using.