Astera has launched the SolaBulb, the world’s first wi-fi, zoomable, bulb-style Fresnel designed for movie, broadcast, dwell occasions, and exhibitions. Combining the acquainted kind issue of a PAR bulb with the precision of a Fresnel lens, the SolaBulb gives unprecedented versatility in sensible lighting functions.
In contrast to conventional LED bulbs, the SolaBulb integrates a handbook 15°–50° zoom, permitting lighting designers and gaffers to transition easily from a decent spot to a large wash. This makes it potential to realize managed accents or broad ambient protection from a single compact supply, with out swapping fixtures.
The Astera SolaBulb acts as a mini fresnel that may obtain spectacular outcomes, however may be very versatile for gaffers because of its options. Picture credit score: Astera
Titan LED engine and output
At its core, the SolaBulb makes use of Astera’s Titan RGBMA LED engine, delivering saturated colours, correct pores and skin tones, and a excessive TLCI of 96 throughout 3200K to 6500K. Gentle output is notable for a 15W unit:
- 5,228 lux at 1m in 15° spot mode
- 1,652 lux at 30°
- 615 lux at 50° flood
Equal to a 50W PAR bulb, it maintains power effectivity with most consumption at 16.5W.
The beam is formed by a built-in PAR20 Fresnel lens, providing cinematic shadow high quality, whereas the non-obligatory SolaSnoot accent reduces spill and enhances distinction.
The Astera SolaBulb. Picture credit score: Astera
Versatile energy and management
The bulb helps each AC (E26, E27, or B22 bases) and DC energy through its built-in 3.5mm x 1.35mm socket. It’s totally appropriate with the Astera PowerStation (FP5-PS), which supplies battery operation, exterior show, and programming choices.
Management is equally adaptable:
- Constructed-in LumenRadio CRMX for DMX integration
- Bluetooth Bridge performance for AsteraApp management
- Wi-fi RDM and IR distant compatibility
For fast setups, an built-in ON/OFF button permits pairing and preset choice with out exterior units. Wi-fi vary extends as much as 100m with CRMX/UHF, or 3m through Bluetooth.
The Astera SolaBulb, powered by battery. Picture credit score: Astera
Designed for set and stage use
Measuring roughly 114–137mm (4.5–5.4 in) in size (relying on socket sort) and weighing 433g (0.95 lbs), the SolaBulb is just barely bigger than a regular PAR bulb. Mounting choices embody normal lamp sockets in addition to 1/4”-20 and three/8”-16 UNC threads for rigging with equipment like BabyPins.
With IP44 safety when utilizing the waterproof cowl, it may be utilized in each indoor and out of doors environments. Security mounting through secondary eyelets is supported for overhead use.
Astera SolaBulb specs
- LED engine: Titan RGBMA
- Energy draw: 15 W (max. 16.5 W)
- Output (5500K): 15°: 5,228 lux at 1m, 30°: 1,652 lux at 1m, 50°: 615 lux at 1m
- Beam angle: 15°–50° (handbook zoom)
- Discipline angle: 23°–73°
- Shade rendering: CRI/TLCI ≥96 (3200K–6500K)
- Strobe: 0–25 Hz
- Management: CRMX, AsteraApp (Bluetooth Bridge), RDM, IR distant
- Connectivity: Constructed-in CRMX and Bluetooth Bridge
- Energy enter: AC: E26 / E27 / B22, 100–240 V, DC: 9–18 V (3.5 mm x 1.35 mm)
- Safety score: IP20 (DC) / IP44 (with cowl on DC port)
- Mounting choices: E26 / E27 / B22 socket, 1/4”-20, 3/8”-16 threads
- Dimensions: 114–137mm (4.5–5.4 in) size (relying on socket)
- Weight: 433g (0.95 lb)
The Astera SolaBulb. Picture credit score: Astera
Reasonably priced scalability
Astera emphasizes that the SolaBulb is priced to permit deployment in bigger numbers, enabling gaffers and designers to unlock artistic setups that mix with present NYX and LunaBulb ecosystems. Kits together with a number of bulbs, snoots, and a PowerStation are additionally obtainable.
Astera’s SolaBulb stands out as a uncommon mixture of sensible mild kind issue and professional-grade Fresnel performance. Compact, zoomable, and totally wi-fi, it guarantees to streamline workflows throughout movie units, dwell occasions, and architectural functions.
Value and availability
Astera talked about that they wish to maintain the value low in order that any finances could make use of their SolaBulbs. This makes probably the most sense when you’re utilizing only a few at a time, with every priced at an reasonably priced $150. For more information, please go to their web site.
Would you contemplate swapping your normal PAR bulbs for zoomable Fresnels like these? Tell us within the feedback.
