High-end flash photography specialist Profoto has announced their entry into the cinema market with their first continuous COB LED light, the L1600D.
This high-output LED light features a fixed color temperature of 5700K and includes an integrated power supply, eliminating the need for an external ballast. The light boasts an impressive 49000lx at 5m/16.4ft with the included boost reflector.
Background on Profoto
Profoto is renowned among photographers globally for their robust and durable studio and on-location flashes. Over the years, the company has also developed a range of lighting modifiers and shaping tools, using their proprietary Profoto mount. Leveraging decades of experience, the Swedish company is now venturing into the filmmaking and cinema market with the Profoto L1600D.
Features of the Profoto L1600D
Features of the Profoto L1600DThe Profoto L1600D is a 1600W “mono-LED” light with a fixed color temperature of 5700K and a CRI/TLCI over 97. It offers dimming capabilities from 0 to 100% in 0.1% increments and is flicker-free at any frame rate. The light has dimensions of 50 x 26 x 29cm/19.6 x 10.2 x 11.4in with the built-in reflector and weighs 11.7kg/25.8lb for the light head plus yoke only, making it less portable compared to other fixtures.
Power and Cooling System
The L1600D features an integrated power supply and cannot be powered by external batteries. It connects to mains power via a Neutrik powerCON connector at the back of the light head and comes with a 7m/23ft power cable. For cooling, Profoto developed the patent-pending HydroCTech liquid cooling system. The unit also contains two 140mm fans, but the noise is expected to be manageable. The light is IP54 weatherproof, suitable for outdoor shooting under careful handling.
Connectivity and Control
Profoto has shared limited visuals of the L1600D, but it is known that the front features a dual mount for lighting modifiers, compatible with Profoto and Bowens mounts. The back of the unit includes a USB-C port, an XLR 5pin in/out port for DMX control, and an antenna for the Profoto Air Radio protocol, which supports remote control up to 100m/328ft. The L1600D also supports Lumen Radio and CRMX protocols.
Pricing and Availability
Currently, Profoto has not disclosed any details about the pricing or availability of the L1600D. However, the light will be on display at CineGear in Burbank, California, from June 7-9th, where attendees can see the product in person.
About Profoto
Profoto, established in 1968 by Conny Dufgran and Eckhard Heine in Stockholm, Sweden, initially aimed to create the world’s best photo flash for top photographers. Their products quickly gained popularity among celebrity fashion photographers, facilitating early expansion into Japan in 1970 and the United States in 1992
News source: https://profoto.com/int/news-room/l1600d
