I run dual HIR1s (Hi-Beams), which are rated at 2350 per bulb from multiple sources, along with a 4-HI HD Relay Harness. I can say with 99% certainty, outside of a retrofit projector HID setup using top of the line (morimoto, d2s, etc) HID Bulbs/projectors, no other bulb holds a candle to HIRs in terms of output, and reliability.
I am sure LEDs will catch up to where they can be found decently, for decent prices, but the top of the line stuff is just to out of range atm (like HIDs were first, back in the day).
HIDs are great in theory, but damn it if I don't HAAAATE ballasts. I've used pretty much every 'cheap' HID solution out there, all the ebay options, all the amazon options, DDM multiple times, small shop people off other forums... Every single one of them, the ballasts burn out, and quickly/frequently. I am sure if you go with the projector retrofit guys, or some other top end business/kits, that is a different story - but expect to pay a pretty penny.