Profoto’s Debut in the Filmmaking Industry
Profoto, a globally recognized brand for its diverse range of studio and on-location flashes, is making its debut in the cinema market with the L1600D, its first continuous COB LED light. Profoto’s products are renowned for their robust build and exceptional durability. Over the years, the company has expanded its product line to include lighting modifiers and shaping tools with its unique Profoto mount. With this wealth of experience, the Swedish company is now venturing into the filmmaking and cinema industry with the introduction of the Profoto L1600D.
An Overview of the Profoto L1600D
The Profoto L1600D, as the name suggests, is a 1600W “mono-LED” light. This fixture comes with a fixed color temperature of 5700K, a CRI/TLCI over 97, and offers dimming options ranging from 0 to 100% in 0.1% increments. Profoto assures that the L1600D is flicker-free at any frame rate. The high-output LED light has an impressive output of 49000lx at 5m/16.4ft with the included boost reflector.
Weighing 11.7kg/25.8lb (light head plus yoke only) and measuring 50 x 26 x 29cm/19.6 x 10.2 x 11.4in with the built-in reflector, the L1600D may not be the most compact or lightweight fixture available. However, its integrated power supply, eliminating the need for an external ballast, and its inability to run on external batteries, make it a unique entry in the market.
Cooling System and Weatherproof Rating
Profoto has developed a proprietary HydroCTech liquid cooling system to keep the L1600D cool. Though the unit includes two 140mm fans, the noise level is expected to be reasonable. The light carries an IP54 weatherproof rating, indicating that while not entirely waterproof, it should withstand outdoor shooting conditions with careful handling.
Mounting Options and Connectivity
The L1600D comes with a dual mount at the front for lighting modifiers, compatible with both Profoto and Bowens mounts. The back of the unit houses 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. Additionally, the L1600D is compatible with Lumen Radio and CRMX protocols.
Pricing and Availability
As of now, Profoto has not disclosed any details regarding the pricing or availability of the L1600D. However, attendees of CineGear in Burbank, California, from June 7-9th, will have the opportunity to witness this powerful LED light in person.
