We're planning on putting up one of the new "step-lite' cloud fluorescent fixtures on my kitchen work area ceiling. Because I want the ability to dim that light on occasion, we're having the existing electronic ballast swapped out for a dimming electronic ballast (w/accompanying dimmer controls on the switch plate of course).

Has anyone ever done this before? If so, were you pleased w/the end results? Did you notice any audible 'hum' when the light was dimmed? The literature "says" because it's electronic and not magnetic, there's no 'humming'. Also by virtue of the fact the bulbs are T8's and not T12's there's no or very little appreciable hum in the first place. But hearing is believing as well as others' opinions & experiences.

Haven't yet decided whether we'll go w/the more square fixture (25"X26") or one of the wider-longer ones (17"X52" or 12"X52"). Don't know which profile will look better in my smallish 10'X9' work area. Any suggestions on that as well will also be appreciated. Thanks for any input you can provide. This forum has already helped me make decisions on other lighting choices for my new kitchen.

Here is a link that might be useful: Brodwax Lighting