I use IR as well. I've researched enough to feel confident that it's better for the plant with it, vs. without. That's why testing a side by side is the furthest thing from my mind. I'm personally already convinced they're beneficial.
I don't work in the tent while they're on.
Come on, you have to admit that's subjective. lol
I know someone who grows with a CMH + LED set up and the results are absolutely stunning. I've strongly considered making a similar build because of it. I've even considered using my 1000W HPS with the QB's split wide to the corners because I already have one. I'm always looking to improve my grows and mixing light spectrums is something that really intrigues me.
I can't definitively answer that. I was using HPS before switching to LED/UVB/IR. I also ran different strains between the two lights so that can't be compared either. The HPS produced nicely, I can't knock it. But without definitive data to back it up, I can only state "yes" as my personal opinion. I'm very happy with the results,
I'm also not trying to debate HPS vs. LED or justify UV and IR. I believe everything has its place. That's one of the things that makes growing so much fun. With so many different options, folks can build their own personal load out with what they think would work best, and just run with it. It's similar to golf where you have a bag full of golf clubs but which club do you want to use for your shot?