What is the difference between using a low voltage MR16 halogen lamp and a line voltage PAR halogen lamp in a recessed light?
Because an MR16 halogen lamp (light bulb) is generally smaller (only 2 inches in diameter) the recessed fixture for this lamp is usually smaller in diameter than one that uses a larger PAR halogen lamp. Because a low voltage MR16 halogen lamp uses 12 volts the low voltage housing must come equipped with a transformer and is, therefore, more expensive than a housing that uses a line voltage PAR halogen lamp. On the other hand, a low voltage MR16 halogen lamp produces a cone of light that is generally “tighter”, “crisper”, and more controlled than the beam of light produced by a line voltage PAR halogen lamp. Therefore, if you want to illuminate a work of art, jewelry, or crystal with a tight, well-controlled cone of light, then you definitely want to use a low voltage halogen recessed fixture. If, however, you simply want to provide general lighting or you want to provide perfectly adequate accent lighting in a retail setting or you cannot afford the extra cost of a recessed housing wit
