You'd think for the price the DE would be as my daughter says "all that", they are nice in the way they take up a smaller amount of space, and with the right bulb, reflector, and ballast they produce a tremendous amount of PAR. Worth the price? That depends on the buyer. Personally I think the prices are horrifically inflated due to nothing more than the current popularity.

But if you do your homework you will find there are complete SE DIY setups that are far superior (my opinion) or equal to the PAR that can be had for less than the price of just a DE bulb.

Study the spectral charts, PAR, and efficiency of the bulbs/ballasts you are considering and make an educated choice. Keep in mind the quality of a reflector will make or break even the best bulb, single or double ended.