Retrofit Source or VVME HID lights?

I just canceled my order from 500Madness for their HID system for the Abarth. Already backordered two weeks and they say another 4-6 weeks to go.

A few guys on the 500 forums are using VVME lights, around $50 if I remember, but they aren't the real 9012 size needed. I think they're 9006 or something & they drilled a hole in the cap for the bulb.

I've heard of Retrofit Source & they have a kit for the 9012 bulb for $150. I believe I've heard a few people mention them elsewhere.

Any opinions one way or the other?

I've used the Retrofit Source for several more-involved projects, and I have nothing but good things to say about those guys and their products. Also, if you go to their shop, you will most likely get a tour. There's a lot more going on in that shop than you can tell from their website; it's pretty cool!

RFS is 9012: Morimoto Elite HID System. $150

VVME is Digital Slim 9006(HB4) HID Light Conversion Kit $30

I know you usually get what you pay for...

Jerry wrote: I just canceled my order from 500Madness for their HID system for the Abarth. Already backordered two weeks and they say another 4-6 weeks to go. A few guys on the 500 forums are using VVME lights, around $50 if I remember, but they aren't the real 9012 size needed. I think they're 9006 or something & they drilled a hole in the cap for the bulb. I've heard of Retrofit Source & they have a kit for the 9012 bulb for $150. I believe I've heard a few people mention them elsewhere. Any opinions one way or the other?

Is that trying to stick a HID bulb in a halogen reflector? If so, I'd avoid it and wait for a proper HID conversion. HID bulbs in halogen lamp assemblies tend to give a screwed up beam pattern that's halfway between high and low beams.

In reply to MadScientistMatt:

Being in a projector housing, I figured I was safe? Not a big silver box that blasts light everywhere (uh, like I did in the xB).

I was mainly looking for anyone that said "I've had VVME's for 2 years with no issues". $30 seems like disposable cash for HID headlights. If they were to crap out, learn my lesson and go with RFS.

The capsule still has a different light pattern - whether it's using a projector or reflector housing to focus the beam pattern, the optics still will be a bit off if you change the bulb to a different design.

I put VVMEs in my buddy's 07ish Camry (projector halogen housing) and his fogs as well, they've held up fine. Has to be over 2 years now... Used an ebay harness and that I had to resolder the positive battery cable connector after it broke but that's not a VVME issue. I believe they have a lifetime warranty but that's going to China, cheaper to just buy another.

Retrofit source is good stuff. I've had their moromoto mini conversion (projectors, bulbs, and OEM Philips ballasts) on the WRX for 4 years now. No failure, no issues, great light, great cutoff.

I would suggest NOT using the stock halogen projectors for HIDs as they will not give you a sharp bean and will creat a lot of glare. Get the retrofit source bi-xenon setup. It's great, and not terribly expensive.