So then, as a grow newbie. What set up could I purchase for relatively cheap ( HID ) that will be good for say a 4 foot by 4 foot range that is growing lets say 4 plants. not a lot I know, but I think that I should master I few before I do a lot
Cob/led/315 lec would be considered a few of the more efficient types of grow lights.
You can grow with almost anything within the spectrum bro, but i would try a couple grows before diving into more efficient lights just incase you decide growing isnt for you that way you dont get stuck with grow lights, totally up to you though.
If you could get more product with less power pulled from the wall without going past your budget then i would go for it as long as your environment has the capabilities for whatever your game plan is.
8 ounces from a 400mh is decent, 8 ounces from 400w of compact fluorescents is very very sketchy but probably not impossible with a very high maintenance room.