2024 Moving Light Madness: Bracket Breakdown

Welcome to Moving Light Madness, where the stage is set for an epic showdown of luminary proportions.

Forget the hardwood courts of March Madness; we're here to celebrate the brilliance of 64 top-tier moving lights, all vying for the coveted title of ultimate fixture. Divided into four sections mirroring March Madness regions, spot & profile, wash, beam, and strobe and bar fixtures duke it out daily, with fans casting their votes to illuminate their favorites.

From seasoned veterans to fresh-faced newcomers, each fixture brings its own unique flair to the stage. But only one can emerge victorious! So join us as we dissect and debate the standout features of each fixture in the bracket.

Jump to the Spot & Profile Bracket

Jump to the Wash Bracket

Jump to the Beam Bracket

Jump to the Strobe & Bar Bracket

This year our online Bracket Breakdown and Weekly Recaps are sponsored by the North American Theatre Engineering and Architecture Conference powered by ESTA. NATEAC is a quadrennial opportunity to discuss growing trends and shifts in the thoughtful building of our art spaces. Registration just opened and you can find out more here.

Spot & Profile Bracket

This year's Spot & Profile Bracket is stacked with heavy hitting workhorse fixtures.

We start with taking a look at last years Final 4 candidate from the Spot & Profile bracket.

Martin Professional MAC Ultra Performance

Last year's Final Four candidate, the Martin Professional MAC Ultra Performance is a standout in the LED moving head market primarily due to three core features. It has an extremely high light output, rated at 46,500 lumens, which makes it suitable for large-scale events and venues. The fixture incorporates a sophisticated Extended Framing System, allowing for precise light shaping and control, which is beneficial in theatrical and detailed lighting designs. Additionally, its cooling system is engineered for ultra-quiet operation, making the unit ideal for use in theaters and TV studios where noise can be problematic. It's an all around workhorse fixture packed with a complete color and effects toolkit.

-- the remaining fixtures are listed alphabetically --

Ayrton Domino Profile

The Ayrton Domino Profile is a high-output LED moving head profile designed for both intensive outdoor and indoor applications. Leveraging the same advanced optics as the Huracán Profile, the Domino Profile achieves an impressive light output exceeding 50,000 lumens, ensuring brilliant illumination and high-definition image reproduction over a zoom range of 6° to 60°. It incorporates a precise and versatile framing system, allowing for accurate shaping and positioning of light. And its IP65 rating ensures the Domino Profile can perform under extreme conditions such as heavy rain, dust, and high temperatures.

Ayrton Huracan Profile

The Ayrton Huracán Profile stands out with its impressive output of 51,000 lumens, powered by a high-efficiency 1000W LED engine. It features a rich array of effects including gobos and effect cassettes, which allow for the creation of all sorts of different looks. The fixture is also equipped with dual rotating prisms, a variable frost system, and a framing system for beam control. In addition to its optics and effects, the Huracán Profile is designed with an advanced liquid cooling system, ensuring the fixture operates efficiently.

Chauvet Professional Maverick Force 3 Profile

The Chauvet Professional Maverick Force 3 Profile is a LED moving head combining quick movement and fast effects, boasting an impressive output of over 40,000 lumens. The fixture features precision optics for depth capture, a CMY + CTO color mixing system for vibrant colors, and maintains a flat field of focus across its zoom range. It's equipped with advanced effects tools, including two gobo wheels and animation effects, making it versatile for various shows.

Claypaky Arolla HP

The Claypaky Arolla HP is a high-performance LED profile spotlight designed with particular emphasis on compactness without compromising on power. Despite its reduced size, making it one of the most compact fixtures in its class, the Arolla HP boasts a high-wattage 1200-Watt LED engine, delivering an impressive output of up to 52,000 lumens. This makes it an ideal choice for venues looking to maximize brightness while conserving space. Alongside its size and power, the fixture features advanced cooling systems, versatile framing capabilities, and a rich color mixing palette, positioning it as a top contender for professional lighting applications requiring high output and precision in a compact form.

Claypaky Sharpy X Frame

The Claypaky Sharpy X Frame is a multifunctional luminaire that extends the award-winning SHARPY series, offering a blend of performance and versatility in a compact design. It features a 550-Watt arc lamp known for its brightness and the ability to produce deep, vivid colors, including an exceptional deep red. Designed as a hybrid fixture, the Sharpy X Frame serves as a beam, spot, profile, or wash light, equipped with a comprehensive set of features including a four-focal plane shutter system, rotating and static gobo wheels, rotating prisms, linear frost, and an advanced color system with CMY, CTO, and a separate color wheel. The fixture offers an extensive zoom range, ensuring sharp images and collimated beams across a wide variety of applications. This makes the Sharpy X Frame a versatile solution for creating dynamic visual effects in any setting.

Elation Professional Proteus Maximus

The Elation Professional Proteus Maximus is a high-intensity IP65-rated LED Profile fixture, designed for versatile outdoor applications. It emits up to 50,000 lumens from a 950W 6,500K LED engine, making it suitable for environments requiring high output. With its broad zoom range of 5.5° to 55° and a large 180mm front lens, the Proteus Maximus excels in delivering bright and powerful beams, ideal for outdoor concerts, special events, theme parks, and cruise ships, ensuring high performance and reliability in any weather condition. The fixture is equipped with a wide array of effects including 6 rotating and 7 fixed glass gobos, a full animation wheel, dual prisms, dual frost, and a high-speed iris, alongside an indexable framing system for exact beam shaping.

High End Systems Halcyon from ETC

The High End Systems Halcyon by Electronic Theatre Controls is a range of automated framing luminaires designed for various applications from short to extremely long throw distances, available in three model. Platinum, the highest caliber fixture outputs 55,000 lumens, with a boost mode up to 75,000 lumens. These fixtures feature advanced color mixing, comprehensive framing capabilities, a wide selection of patterns and effects, and ETC's patented Whisper Home technology for quiet and precise operation. The Halcyon series offers functionality and versatility for professional lighting setups in theaters, opera houses, and rental operations.

ETC Hyperstar

The ETC High End Systems Hyperstar adds to the Lonestar series with its compact design and versatile capabilities. This compact, cost-effective fixture stands out with its bright white LED engine, delivering an impressive output of 15,400 lumens and featuring a comprehensive zoom range of 3.8° to 50°. Unlike its predecessor, the Hyperstar removes framing modules, increasing flexibility in pattern and effect utilization. It comes equipped with advanced features such as CMY color mixing, electronic linear eCTO for precise color temperature adjustments, and an array of effect tools including dual prisms, nine rotating and eleven fixed gobos, complemented by an animation wheel.

ETC Source Four Ellipsoidal

In the high-stakes world of theatrical lighting, where the bright and the beautiful vie for the spotlight, the ETC Source Four Ellipsoidal stands out—not as the new kid on the block, but as the seasoned veteran whose swagger hasn't faded. Picture this: amidst a sea of flashy, modern fixtures, all boasting the latest tech and shiny gizmos, there sits the Source Four, the beloved granddaddy of stage lighting. It’s like bringing a classic muscle car to a modern electric car show; it may not have all the newfangled features, but it turns heads with its timeless design and undeniable charm.

The Source Four is the Mick Jagger of lights: a bit vintage, but with a performance that still outshines many up-and-comers. It's that one fixture that, despite its age, can throw a beam with the best of them, making it the unsung hero of the lighting world. It’s like your favorite pair of jeans: sure, there are newer ones out there, but none fit quite as well. With its unparalleled focus, efficiency, and that signature theatrical glow, the Source Four continues to hold its own, proving that sometimes, old school is still the best school. So here's to the Source Four: not just a fixture, but a legend, continuing to rock stages worldwide with its classic flair in a modern era.

Martin Professional ERA 700 Performance IP

The Martin Professional ERA 700 Performance IP is an LED-based profile light designed for outdoor use, featuring robust construction and an IP66 rating for weather resistance. It offers advanced lighting features like CMYC color mixing, dual gobo wheels, and a full curtain framing system, tailored for dynamic outdoor lighting designs. The fixture is compact, making it suitable for various installation and rental markets, and includes innovative features for secure and versatile outdoor applications.

Martin Professional Viper

The Martin Professional Viper, a stalwart in the moving light arena, blends classic charm with enduring performance. Despite newer models flooding the market, the Viper remains a go-to for its reliability, crisp optics, and punchy output, proving that like a fine wine, some fixtures just get better with age. In the dynamic world of stage lighting, where the latest isn't always the greatest, the Viper's continued presence is a testament to its lasting appeal and quality, making it the "old-timer" that still packs a punch!

Robe Lighting iFORTE®

The Robe Lighting iFORTE® is the most powerful fixture in the Robe iSeries, featuring an IP65 rating for outdoor use without the usual weight increase, being only 1.5 kg heavier than its indoor counterpart. It maintains the same size, form, and performance as the indoor FORTE®, allowing for seamless integration into existing setups. The fixture is designed for easy maintenance with a user-friendly ingress protection system that permits on-site gobo changes and routine tasks without special tools. It includes an active RAINS™ system for internal moisture control, a Self Pressure Test for ensuring sealed integrity, and robust construction with magnesium alloy covers to protect against the elements and reduce maintenance needs. The iFORTE® also features innovative technologies like POLAR+™ for cold weather operation, NFC for mobile access to diagnostics, and advanced lighting features like CMY color mixing, Plano4™ framing, dual gobo wheels, and special coatings to maintain clarity and performance in harsh outdoor conditions.

Vari*Lite VL3500

The Vari-Lite VL3500 Profile stands as a classic in the realm of moving lights, this theatrical workhorse pranced onto the stage as one of the first all-in-one lighting virtuosos, flaunting a color mixing system that could make even the most seasoned lighting designer weep with joy.  In a world constantly chasing the next big thing, the VL3500 stands proud, a testament to the adage "if it ain't broke, don't fix it," proving that sometimes, familiarity really does breed content, not contempt. Its enduring charm lies not just in its once-groundbreaking brightness but in the comfort and predictability it offers to lighting designers who have danced with it through countless shows.

Vari*Lite VL3600 Profile IP

The Vari*Lite VL3600 Profile IP is a large-scale profile luminaire equipped with a 180mm front lens, delivering an output of 45,000 lumens. It features an IP65 rating for outdoor use while maintaining a market-leading size-to-weight ratio akin to a 1000W IP20 fixture. The luminaire offers advanced color mixing capabilities through its CMY+CTO system, ensuring uniform color across the lens, beneficial for on-stage or camera applications. The VL*FX animation wheel system offers three distinct animation effects wheels, enabling users to produce dynamic projected and mid-air visuals either as standalone effects or in combination with gobos and prisms for layered lighting designs. The VTrack Calibration System ensures minimal movement during calibration, enhancing safety and setup efficiency.

Volux Lighting Statite 1000

The Volux Lighting Statite 1000 emerges as the new kid on the block in the realm of LED profile moving heads, boasting an impressive 50,000 lumens output. This fixture is tailored for large stages, designed to excel as a robust backlight with comprehensive color and effect capabilities. Despite its default 70 CRI LED, which may affect the quality of white light, Volux provides an optional high CRI engine upgrade for enhanced front wash applications. The Statite 1000 stands out with its extensive features: vibrant color mixing, crisp projection, advanced framing system, and a suite of effects including an animation wheel, dual gobo wheels, and dual prisms. This makes it a versatile tool for designers seeking powerful output and nuanced control in their lighting arrays.

Wash Bracket

The wash bracket this year is one of the most competitive.

Robe Lighting Spiider

The Robe Lighting Spiider was last years wash fixture representative in the 4Wall Final Four. The classic "pancake wash" type fixture features 18 RGBW LEDs and one central 60W RGBW LED. The center LED can be used as beam light, or aerial effects with the Spiiders unique MCFE™ – Multi-Coloured Flower Effects. That extra oomf has led many to depend on the Spiider as a workhorse wash fixture over the years.

-- the remaining fixtures are listed alphabetically --

1000W Parcan w/ a loose bolt

The Par Can, a legendary fixture in the lighting world, stands as a timeless contender in Moving Light Madness. And a loose bolt technically makes it a light that moves. Its classic design and reliability have illuminated countless stages, setting the standard for simplicity and effectiveness in lighting technology. Who hasnt used a parcan before? Unlike newer, more complex fixtures, the Par Can delivers straightforward, powerful lighting without the need for intricate programming or setup. Its rugged durability and ease of use have made it a favorite among technicians and designers for decades. In a world constantly chasing the latest technology, the Par Can reminds us that sometimes, the original is hard to beat.

ACME Theta

ACME has taken the industry by storm with a collection of new products that offer never-before-seen feature combinations. THETA is a prime example of that, combining a 200-watt cool white LED center beam with a surrounding wash of 30 x 40-watt RGBW LEDs. The center beam is even equipped with a color wheel with 13 colors, a static gobo wheel with 9 patterns, 8-facet and 16-facet prisms, and a frost filter. 🤯

Ayrton Huracan Wash

Ayrton's HURACÁN WASH is a fresnel-style moving head with an array of dynamic prism and rotating gobos for effects patterns. The HURACÁN WASH features a proprietary optical system with a 12:1 zoom ratio, spanning 6.2° at half peak to 75° at one-tenth peak. It incorporates the sophisticated color mixing system from the HURACÁN PROFILE.

Ayrton Zonda FX

At its core, the Ayrton ZONDA FX is a wash fixture with an array of 37 RGBW LEDs. Additionally, the ZONDA 9 FX can generate a high-definition 'LiquidEffect' between its main lenses for intricate graphic displays, which can operate independently or alongside the main LED matrix. This, we cant lie, is pretty badass- but requires a lot of programming.

Chauvet Maverick Storm 3 BeamWash

The Chauvet Professional Maverick Storm 3 BeamWash is a versatile, compact IP65-rated fixture, boasting 28 powerful 45W RGBW LEDs. It offers impressive zoom capabilities from a sharp 4.6 degrees for intense aerial effects to a broad 53.6 degrees for expansive washes. Enhanced with individual pixel control and dual zoom zones, it delivers spectacular eye candy effects suitable for any setting.

Claypaky A.leda B-Eye K20

You're probably familiar with the classic Claypaky B-Eye, as it is one of the first multi-pixel pancake washes that fully committed to being a fixture dedicated to eye-candy looks. Since the original - the B-Eye has gone through several reinventions, each taking it to another level. The Claypaky A.leda B-Eye K20 is equipped with 37 individual LEDs, each capable of full RGBW color mixing. Its unique rotating front lens allows for mesmerizing patterns and effects, distinguishing it from other fixtures.

Elation Professional Proteus Brutus

The Elation Professional PROTEUS BRUTUS is an IP65-rated LED Wash fixture that produces a massive 75,000 lumens from a 1200W LED engine, making it fit for bright, outdoor arena-sized venues. The fixture includes an array of effects such as six rotating glass gobos, an animation wheel, frost, and a high-speed iris, alongside an optional framing system for precise beam shaping. With a zoom range of 4.5° to 45° and a large 220mm front lens, the Proteus Brutus is a heavy-hitting, wash-moving wash fixture.

ETC SolaPix

The ETC SolaPix family represents the pixel wash category with its compact design and superior brightness. Features like narrow zoom, FleX Effects macros, and pixel control allow for diverse looks and atmospheres. All SolaPix models offer RGBW color mixing, adjustable color temperatures from 2800-8000K, and a zoom range of 4.5° to 60°.

GLP X5 Maxx

German Light Products X5 Maxx is GLP's biggest wash fixture. It has 37 40w LEDs and possesses all of the technology offered in other GLP X5 fixtures: RGBL color mixing, iQ.Gamut colour algorithm and advanced optics all wrapped up in an IP65 enclosure.

Martin Professional MAC 101

The Martin Professional MAC 101 is often hailed as a classic in the realm of moving lights, primarily due to its compact size, efficiency, and powerful performance. Despite its small footprint, the MAC 101 packs a significant punch with (what used to be) a remarkably punchy output. It's known for its rapid movement and ability to produce sharp, focused beams as well as soft, diffused washes.

Martin Professional MAC Aura PXL

The Martin Professional MAC Aura PXL is a new fixture that settles right in between the MAC Aura and MAC Quantum Wash. Marking a first in the market, the MAC Aura PXL introduces individual pixel control for both the main beam pixels and the Aura backlight. Its compact size, lightweight design, and reliable Martin construction make it the go-to choice for many LDs.

PRG 5L

The PRG 5L Wash modernizes the classic, award-winning Vari-Lite VL5 by retrofitting it with LED technology while maintaining its original footprint and lens system, thus preserving the beloved visual aesthetics of the VL5 and transitioning it into the LED era. This update includes a 340-watt RGBW LED engine that offers everything you'd expect from a modern wash.

Vari*Lite VL5 LED

The Vari*Lite VL5LED wash luminaire marks a significant evolution in the iconic VL series, blending classic aesthetics with cutting-edge technology. Retaining the beloved silhouette of the original VL5, this updated model transitions into the modern era with an RGBAL LED engine. The VL5LED maintains its signature smooth dimming curves and distinctive dichroic glass reflectors, offering a nod to its heritage while delivering contemporary performance. Additionally, its energy-efficient design and extended LED lifespan cater to eco-conscious production needs without compromising on the quality and intensity that VariLite is known for.

Vari*Lite VL5

The original Vari*Lite VL5 is a classic moving light fixture that sets the industry's standard with its innovative design and performance. As one of the pioneering moving lights, the VL5 combined a compact form with a unique wash luminaire effect, becoming a staple in stage and theatrical lighting. Its distinctive ring-based color-changing system and smooth dimming capabilities allowed for seamless transitions and vibrant color mixtures, making it a favorite among lighting designers.

Volux Lighting Phantra

Volux Lighting PHANTRA is a versatile, compact LED beamwash moving head, designed with an IP65 rating. Equipped with seven individually controllable 60W RGBW LEDs, the PHANTRA enables precise color mixing and high-intensity outputs. It boasts a broad zoom range from 3 to 50 degrees and features GLODOT RGB backlit LEDs pixel-mappable LEDs, allowing for intricate and dynamic visual creations. It also features rotating lens effects for kinetic animations.

Beam Bracket

The beam bracket is filled with new tech every year -- but one thing remains the same: it always produces the ultimate champion.

Let's first take a look at the 3x Moving Light Madness Champ: The Robe MegaPointe

Robe Lighting MegaPointe

It's a fixture that needs no introduction... the Robe MegaPointe has won Moving Light Madness the past 3 years in a row. It's a beam light with enough effect artillery to serve as a workhorse. Dual gobo wheels, color mixing, color wheels, 12 prisms & effects, and a ridiculous zoom range - the MegaPointe has it all.

-- the remaining fixtures are listed alphabetically --

ADJ Lighting Vizi Beam RX2 

The ADJ Lighting Vizi Beam RX2 stands out as a compact yet high-performance. It has an exceptionally sharp 2-degree beam that cuts through any environment. With a frost filter and 2 rotating prisms, the Vizi Beam RX2 might surprise you.

Ayrton Cobra

Ayrton Cobra is a laser-sourced beam fixture with an incredible effects arsenal. Its standout feature is the unparalleled graphics capability, facilitated by an extensive collection of 92 fixed and rotating metal gobos across two wheels, designed specifically for precise light sculpting in beam mode. Enhanced by the innovative 2D-GoboWheel™ and complemented by two sets of four rotating prisms, the Cobra allows for an array of volumetric lighting effects. It is built to withstand extreme conditions, featuring the SunProtect-65™ system for sunlight protection and ColdProtect-65™ for operation in temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F). Above all, Ayrton likes to tell us the Cobra can illuminate objects several kilometers away.

Ayrton Perseo Beam

The Ayrton Perseo Beam, a compact, waterproof, multifunctional beam LED luminaires, excels both indoors and outdoors with its ultra-intensive 2° beam and expansive 21x zoom. It has crazy graphic capabilities with 48 versatile gobos, including 28 high-definition glass and 20 beam-sculpting metal gobos, alongside four rotating prisms. This luminaire features dynamic RGB/CMY color mixing, linear CTO, and an innovative color wheel with temperature correction and complementary colors, supported by a powerful 450 W LED emitter that achieves 18,000 lumens at 6800K.

Chauvet Professional Rogue Outcast 2 Beam

The Chauvet Professional Rogue Outcast 2 Beam is a high-powered, IP65-rated moving head that delivers intensely bright, tight beams, leveraging a 300W 8000K Ushio lamp designed to outperform competing effects and cut through any atmosphere. This lightweight fixture is equipped with sharp aerial capabilities, featuring split colors, captivating gobos, dual layerable rotating prisms, and precision focus, with the option to apply frost for uniform light distribution. Engineered with a robust alloy body, it offers reduced maintenance and is built to endure the elements, whether used indoors or outdoors.

Claypaky Original Sharpy 

The Claypaky Original Sharpy: Ah, the tried-and-true veteran of the beam moving head world. Picture this: a device so compact and light, you'd think it was a prop, yet it blasts out beams brighter than your future. It’s like that classic rock album that never gets old—everyone from live event maestros to TV studio gurus swears by it. The Sharpy, with its swift moves and colorful repertoire, isn't just a tool; it's practically a legend in the lighting game. Think of it as the lighting world's answer to a vintage wine - gets better with age and always in style. Less of a lighting fixture, more of a lighting statement.

Claypaky SKYLOS 

Claypaky SKYLOS takes the laser-powered success of XTYLOS and ups the ante with a powerful skylight fixture intended to produce powerful beams to shoot through the air. It is equipped with a 300W white light laser source with a zoom range from 0.5° to 5°, allowing for precise control over beam spread. Its 15-color wheel enhances creative possibilities alongside a slot for a custom fixed gobo. The device includes a rotating wheel with 6-sided and 5-sided linear prisms, and a separate layer with a fixed 4-sided prism, which can be combined to produce the unique Moonflower effect. Additionally, the searchlight is equipped with a 5° frost filter, a 24-bit digital dimmer, and a digital stop-strobe effect. The Skylos distinguishes itself by its energy-efficient performance and reduced maintenance demands, making it an ideal choice for applications requiring sustained, high-intensity illumination. Its durable construction is designed to withstand extreme environmental conditions, ensuring reliability and longevity in a variety of operational contexts.

Claypaky XTYLOS 

Claypaky XTYLOS was the first widespread laser-powered moving light. This laser engine provides a remarkable 20,000-hour lifespan and powers an extraordinary color range with intense brightness, leveraging a patented optical system that eliminates hotspots and ensures solid, saturated beams. XTYLOS diverse effects include a linear virtual CTO from 2500K to 6500K, a rotating gobo wheel with high-definition gobos, a static gobo disk, and a variety of prisms and frost filters for creative lighting designs, complemented by precise digital dimming and electronic shutter capabilities.

Elation Professional Proteus Excalibur

The Elation Professional PROTEUS EXCALIBUR, a member of the acclaimed Proteus range, sets a benchmark as the brightest IP65-rated beam fixture, combining immense light output with a compact design. This fixture challenges traditional Xenon searchlights with its ultra-narrow 0.8° beam, visible from great distances thanks to an expansive 260mm front lens. It offers a variety of gobos and prisms, maintaining vibrant CMY colors even at full saturation, and features precise beam control, dual variable frosts, and a remote-controlled Expander lens for beam widening up to 3.5 degrees. Ideal for theme parks, cruise ships, outdoor events, and large-scale shows, the PROTEUS EXCALIBUR is energy-efficient, compact, and includes the Sky Motion system for easy creation of dynamic searchlight effects without a dedicated controller.

Elation Professional Proteus Radius 

The Elation Professional PROTEUS RADIUS is a compact, high-intensity, IP66-rated beam FX fixture, featuring a 100W Solid State Phosphor-Converted (SSPC) light engine for projecting powerful, narrow beams over long distances. It offers incredibly fast 360-degree movement on both axes, enabling dynamic beam animations. Equipped with CMY color mixing, gobos, prisms, and frost options, the PROTEUS RADIUS provides lighting designers with a vast palette for creating diverse and stunning aerial effects.

German Light Products FR1 

The GLP impression FR1 is a compact automated lighting unit that utilizes a single 60W homogenized RGBW LED. This feature allows for a wide range of color mixing capabilities as well as the projection of crisp, white light with adjustable color temperature control. It is lightweight, small, and baseless, so it can fit inside tight spaces and provide a versatile and punchy beam solution.

High End Systems ShowGun 

The High End Systems Showgun is considered iconic in the world of stage lighting for several reasons. First and foremost: it produced an unrivaled pillar of light that was known to even melt roadcases. Another aspect that contributes to the Showgun's iconic status is its integrated LED ring around the main lens, which provides additional creative possibilities. This feature allows lighting designers to create stunning visual effects that complement the main beam, adding depth and complexity to the overall lighting design. Lastly, the Showgun was iconic because of its size. Standing at the same height of a small child, this fixture made you feel like you had a little friend on tour. A little friend that you know... could melt roadcases.

Martin Professional MAC One

The Martin Professional MAC One is a versatile beam/wash - but let's not kid ourselves. What is so revolutionary about this fixture is that it's under 10 lbs. It offers a zoom range of 4 to 27 degrees and includes an innovative backlight system with 24 RGB effect LEDs. A 120 W RGBL LED engine powers the fixture. It is also compatible with interlocking accessory systems for modular design options.

Robe Lighting iBeam 350 

The Robe iBeam 350™ expands the capabilities of its indoor counterpart, bringing the versatility and performance of the LEDBeam 350™ to outdoor environments. As part of the Robe iSeries, this fixture is IP65-rated, ensuring it is protected against rain, dust, and humidity, making it suitable for outdoor use. Retaining the same core features and quality of light as the LEDBeam 350™, the iBeam 350™ seamlessly integrates into any lighting design, whether indoors or outdoors. It shares the same DMX map, footprint, and has a minimal weight difference compared to its indoor version, enabling a unified setup across different venues. 

SGM G*7 BeaSt 

The SGM G-7 BeaSt is a dual-purpose moving head designed for producing both aerial beams and strong blind/strobe effects. It features a glass parabolic reflector that combines multiple reflections into a single coherent beam. Additionally, it incorporates a central array of LEDs for delivering potent white strobe or blinder effects. With its large lens aperture and excellent projection qualities, the G-7 BeaSt is particularly effective for long-distance applications and is well-suited for use in large-scale tours and various installation types.

Vari*Lite VL6000 Beam

The VL6000 BEAM features a large 14” front aperture paired with a unique Vari-Lite ellipsoid reflector array system, this fixture creates a strong, retro-style searchlight effect. It delivers a concentrated beam of light with a narrow 6.5° spread, achieving brightness levels exceeding 55,000 lumens.

Strobe & Bar Bracket

Last, but certainly not least, is the Strobe & Bar bracket. This bracket always stays intriguing with new products and classics battling it out.

We will start with the GLP JDC1, the runner-up in this competition for the past 3 years.

GLP JDC1 

The German Light Products JDC1 has become an iconic moving light in the industry, setting a high standard with its unique combination of strobe, blinder, and wash effects in one versatile fixture. Its innovative dual-layer design allows for a wide array of visual effects, from intense white strobes to rich, full-color washes. The fixture's exceptional brightness and precise control have made it a favorite for creating dynamic atmospheres in a variety of settings. The JDC1's success has not only established it as the ultimate floor package fixture but has also influenced the market, leading to the development of similar fixtures by rival manufacturers. This evolution has expanded the genre of hybrid lighting fixtures, offering lighting designers even more creative tools. The JDC1's impact is evident in its widespread adoption and the way it has shaped lighting design trends across the industry.

-- the remaining fixtures are listed alphabetically --

ACME Pulsar S2

The ACME PULSAR S2 is a compact, multi-effect moving head light offering a range of features including washes, beams, and strobe effects in both white and colored light. It features a dual head design with four 60-Watt RGBW LEDs on the front for beam and wash effects, adjustable via a 2.5° to 28° zoom, and a combination of white and RGB LEDs on the rear for varied strobe and beam effects. With its infinite pan and tilt capabilities, the PULSAR S2 is versatile for various settings, from tours to permanent installations, offering a lightweight, durable, and punchy option.

Ayrton Magic Blade

The Ayrton MAGICBLADE FX features seven advanced RGBW LEDs with individual control, enabling the creation of intricate visual scenes and focused lighting. The fixture is designed for clear separation between LEDs, producing a unique aerial effect. Additionally, the MAGICBLADE FX offers infinite pan and tilt capabilities, enhancing its versatility

Chauvet DJ GigBAR Move

The Chauvet DJ GigBAR Move is a 5-in-1 lighting system that combines moving heads, derbies, wash lights, a laser, and strobe effects on a single bar, offering a multifaceted lighting solution. This system is designed for convenience and ease of setup, as it comes with a tripod, a wireless footswitch, and carry bags. It aims to provide a comprehensive light show from a single piece of equipment. It is legendary.

Chauvet Professional Color Strike II

The Chauvet Professional Color STRIKE M is a motorized strobe/wash light rated IP65, designed for both indoor and outdoor use, featuring two white light tube elements and a color-mixing, pixel-mappable face with 14 zones in the RGB face and 28 in the tube elements.. This fixture provides versatility in lighting design, functioning both as a strobe and a wash light with a 180° tilt range for directed color application. Its IP65-rated casing ensures protection against environmental elements.

Chauvet Professional PXL Curve 12 

The Chauvet Professional COLORado PXL Curve 12 is an IP65-rated RGBW LED batten that allows for full pixel mapping and individual control over zoom, tilt, and color across twelve separate heads. It offers both basic and advanced operating modes along with a comprehensive library of effects such as virtual gobos and movement macros. Additionally, seamless edge-to-edge mounting capabilities facilitate uniform pixel pitch between fixtures.

Claypaky Volero Wave 

The Claypaky Volero Wave is an LED bar featuring eight independently moving heads, each capable of 220° tilt, enabling unique three-dimensional and volumetric projections. Equipped with a new mirror-based optical system and 40W RGBW LEDs, it offers intense light output and sharp, collimated beams with a 2.9° projection angle. The design allows for synchronized movements, creating dynamic wave-like effects, especially when multiple units are connected. Features include pixel mapping, Advanced Layers Management for multi-level effects, and compatibility with the Claypaky Panify for additional rotation capabilities.

Elation Professional Rayzor Blade

The Elation Professional PROTEUS RAYZOR BLADE is a versatile IP65-rated linear lighting fixture combining wash, strobe, and SparkLED effects in a compact design, suitable for various settings, including harsh outdoor environments. It features a wide zoom range from 6 to 45 degrees and can deliver intense light outputs over 11,000 lumens using twelve 60W RGBW LEDs. The unique SparkLED system adds depth and creativity with warm-white pixels embedded within the large front lenses.

GLP Impression X4 Bar 20 

The GLP Impression X4 Bar 20 is a batten-style lighting fixture that features 20 tightly packed 15 Watt RGBW LEDs, designed to produce a continuous line of light. It offers a wide range of colors from soft pastels to vibrant hues, supported by high-quality optics for a smooth, homogenized output. The X4 Bar provides motorized tilt functionality for dynamic beam positioning and can be seamlessly aligned with multiple units to maintain consistent pixel spacing. The X4 Bar became commonly used because it was the first fixture capable of producing the "wall of light" effect at its most narrow focus.

GLP Impression X5 Bar IP 

The GLP Impression X5 IP Bar is an IP65-rated batten lighting fixture equipped with 18 40W RGBL LEDs, known for their high output and expanded color range. The fixture introduces a squared lens design, which aims to produce an even curtain of light at narrow angles and maintain smooth, homogenous wash effects up to its widest spread. As a member of the GLP X5 series, it includes features such as adjustable white points, tungsten simulation, magenta/green adjustment, a virtual color wheel, and variable color temperature correction.

GLP JDC2

The GLP JDC2 IP retains the beloved features of its predecessor but with some fresh revamps. The LEDs inside the iconic strobe have been upgraded, and the surrounding plates are bigger and brighter. The JDC2 IP is, obviously, IP65-rated and durable. It weighs 51 lbs, so it's heavy - but it will still technically attach to a Claypaky Panify. 🤣

What is most impressive about this new drop is under the hood. A revamped firmware features a library of over 100 digital animations (called DigiFX) you can manipulate and modify, the ability to capture and display up to 4 NDI streams, an internal color effects engine, and advanced networking capabilities highlight the new muscle the JDC2 IP has to flex. But that's just the beginning- here is everything we know so far about the GLP JDC2 IP. 

Martin Professional Atomic 3000 LED 

The Martin Professional Atomic™ 3000 LED merges traditional strobe elements with modern LED technology, maintaining the core attributes of the original Atomic™ 3000 while offering enhancements such as reduced power consumption and integrated RGB backlighting. This LED version maintains the high brightness level synonymous with its predecessor and introduces internal color effects.

Martin Professional VDO Atomic

The Martin Professional VDO Atomic Bold is a creative LED hybrid fixture designed for versatility, functioning as an audience blinder, strobe light, pixelmapping surface, effect light, and stage wash in one compact unit. Expanding on the features of its predecessor, the VDO Atomic Dot, this larger, octagonal-shaped fixture provides enhanced full-color output and maintains compatibility with interlocking mechanics and cabling for modular use.   

Robe Lighting Tetra2 

Robe Lighting Tetra2 is a linear bar that expands upon the technologies used in the Spiider and Tarrantula fixtures. These fixtures are known for producing an ultra-tight 4° beam from each of their 18 pixels, creating a cohesive and bright "sheet" of light that is sought after by many lighting designers. They are designed to enable seamless integration with one another, allowing for the creation of continuous light curtains without gaps between pixels, whether they are mounted on stage or truss systems. Unique to this series are the two Robe patented Multi-Coloured Flower Effects (MCFE™), which allow for distinctive in-air animations.

TMB Solaris Flare

The TMB Solaris Flare is widely regarded in the industry for its versatility and robust performance, making it a notable option in professional lighting settings. It offers both blinder and wash light functionalities, with strong brightness levels and comprehensive color mixing from its RGBW LEDs. This feature set enables it to produce a wide spectrum of colors and whites, suiting a variety of design needs.

Volux Lighting Flaris X 

The Volux Lighting FLARIS X is an IP65-rated static strobe/wash light that stands out in the market due to its exceptional brightness, combining a central white light tube with surrounding pixel-mappable RGB LEDs for versatile effects suitable for strobe, wash, and blinder functions. The white light section features 192 x 5W cool-white LEDs, arranged into 8 mappable zones, providing intense illumination compared to other strobes. This is complemented by a pixel plate consisting of 640 x 1W RGB LEDs, divided into 24 mappable zones, for dynamic color effects.

Vote In Moving Light Madness

With 16 fixtures vying for the title, the competition will be fierce, with each luminaire bringing its own unique strengths to the table. But the ultimate decision lies in your hands! Throughout the month of March, head over to the @LimeLightWired Instagram story to cast your vote and help determine the ultimate moving light champion. It's your chance to make your voice heard.