Just in time for NAB 2024, Litepanels has announced their latest iteration of the Astra Bi-Color LED panels, focusing on the weather with an all-new, IP65-rated (Ingress protection rating) weatherproof construction, signifying resistance to dust, water, and even snow. The Astra IP Bi-Color panels offer very significant light output and have a CRI/TLCI average of 95. The fixtures maintain their original fast setup but are now built for rugged, outdoor environments. Let’s have a look!Litepanels is a well-known company specializing in LED panel lighting solutions tailored for the television and motion picture industries – in fact, they pioneered this technology back in 2001. Among their other products, they also offer the LED Fresnel lights: Studio X, and the Gemini series of LED light panels. Their new Astra IP line comes in three sizes: Half, 1 x 1, and 2 x 1, all with a standard yoke and a diffuser in the box. Front and back of the Astra IP 1 x 1. Source: LitepanelsLitepanels Astra IP – featuresWith a good light output, these Astra IP fixtures have an adjustable CCT range of 2700 to 6500K. Additionally, their high CRI/TLCI rating of 95 should ensure accurate color reproduction for natural-looking results. The Astra IP has a 0-100% flicker-free dimmer and a dual-dial system with an LCD screen for on-board adjustments. Preset options include CCT modes and customizable user presets, all accessible via quick select. The panel integrates Bluetooth for remote control, with an optional DMX module for more advanced control. The power supply is integrated and there are optional Gold Mount, V-Mount, and BP-U battery plates. For outdoor use, weatherproof battery brackets are also available. Front and back of the Astra IP 2 x 1. Source: LitepanelsThe specsThe Astra IP Half:30° at 3200K:1170 fc / 12,589 Lux at 3.3ft/1m (Unmodified)30° at 5600K:1254 fc / 13,493 Lux at 3.3ft/1m (Unmodified)Weight: 2.8kg / 6.2 lbs (including yoke and power supply)Dimensions (with yoke): 43.2×30.8×10.6cm / 17×12.1×4.2inNominal Power Draw: 63WOptics: 30° custom TIR lensThe Astra IP 1 x 1:30° at 3200K:2341 fc / 25,200 Lux at 3.3ft/1m (Unmodified)30° at 5600K:2508 fc / 27,000 Lux at 3.3ft/1m (Unmodified)Weight: 4.4kg / 9.7 lbs (including yoke and power supply)Dimensions (with yoke): 43.1×42.7×10.8cm / 17×16.8×4.3inNominal Power Draw: 125WOptics: 30° custom TIR lensThe Astra IP 2 x 1:30° at 3200K:4347 fc / 46,800 Lux at 3.3ft/1m (Unmodified)30° at 5600K:4598 fc / 49,500 Lux at 3.3ft/1m (Unmodified)Weight: 7.8kg / 17.2 lbs (including yoke and power supply)Dimensions (with yoke): 68.7×42.6×10.8cm / 27×16.8×4.3inNominal Power Draw: 250WOptics: 30° custom TIR lensAccessories for the Astra IP – softbox for the 2 x 1. Source: LitepanelsPrice and availabilityLitepanels Astra IP Bi-Color LED panels are now available for pre-order. The Astra IP Half is priced at $784/€874, the 1 x 1 is $998/€1,107, and the 2 x 1 will cost you $2,090/€2,272. There are also kits available – for example, the Litepanels Astra IP 1×1 Traveler Duo Kit with Gold and V-Mount Plates (2 Lights) is priced at $4,038. If you are going to be at NAB 2024 this year, drop by the Videndum Production Solutions booth and have a look. See more details and the accessories available on their website!What do you think about these LED panels going weatherproof? Do you see instances where you would put them to work? Let us know in the comments!
