Hi Emm, I have been looking into the powering of my 55w Boltzen lights the last few days and I hope you don't mind me posting my results from this as I think other users and potential users may find it helpful. I was originally planning on running my 55w Boltzens lights via the Sony L-Series NP-F mount on the underside of the light. However when I initially tried this with a 3rd party NPF-970 I ran into a few issues. Mainly it not powering about 70% and cutting out. I also tested this with a friends NP-F batteries namely officials Sony and a number of unbranded and 3rd party batteries and again the same issue. This prompted me to do a bunch of tests and ask a bunch of questions to Came TV and yourself Emm. So here's the findings. The Boltzens come in 55w and 30w. If powering by NP-F battery this is nominal 7.2v. Therefore the max current a battery is likely to see/deliver is 7.6A (55w/7.2v) and 4.2A (30w/7.2v). Therefore in order to to stop any of the Boltzens either cutting out or running at 100% you need a NP-F battery with a max current load of about 8A (55w light) and 4.5A (30w) light. Looking online at various manufacturers of L-Series NP-F batteries very few seem to publish max current. They tend to publish voltage and capacity mAh specs. There were a few I could find, SWIT batteries max current is 4A and RedPro 5A. I have looked everywhere and discussed with quite a few battery manufacturers and no one seems to offer a 7.2V NP-F with a max current of 8A. So in conclusion it really is not possible to power the 55w via NP-F battery at 100%. At best you can use the Red Pro and maybe get to 70-80%. However powering the 30w Boltzen lights is different and the RedPro should run at 100% and the SWIT should also get close to 100% too. This led me to looking into powering my 55w lights via the provided D-Tap cable and V-mount batteries. The difference here is obviously higher capacities but more importantly 14.4v - 14.8v nominal voltage. Which is a max current for the 55w of 3.8A for 100%. I have tested my Boltzen 55w with a couple of Rolux V-mount batteries and the 55w powered at 100% without issue and for long durations. So I have opted to use V-mount on my 55w Boltzen lights, sadly NP-F on the 55w really not a viable option. Maybe as time progresses and battery technologies improve large capacity 8A 7.2v NP-F battery may become available but until then I a sticking with V-mount. I should add that these lights are fantastic and I really like them and would recommend them, but just be aware powering the 55w version via NP-F L-Series not really viable option. However powering the 30w via NP-F L-Series will be ok. So in the end what battery did I opt for. Well thanks to Emm's review on the MAXOAK V-mount 177 I went for these batteries. Just waiting for them to arrive now. Emm thanks for all your help and input. Hope you don't mind me posting such a long comment, however I thought my findings would help so many others and save people going through the pain that I did working this out. Thank you also to CAME-TV for there input as well, who have been quick responding to answer my questions. Update: Following various discussions with CAME-TV about powering the 55W Boltzens via NP-F L-Series batteries they have confirmed the 8A requirement and as such updated their website with a very prominent statement to inform people of 8A requirement. Thanks CAME-TV for all your help and updating your website to reflect these details.
Thanks for the update. For many LED Lights that have alternate DC inputs such as this with a 7-14V, they will not run as bright at 7V than at 14V. That's just displaying the minimum operating voltage and I have a lot of LED lights that operate the same. But also keep in mind that running a 55w 'underpowered' on batteries could be close to a 30w running on batteries. But ideally if you want the longest run time and brightest possible output, the V-mount is the way to go. BTW, I just use small bags to hang my v-mounts on the stand.
+Mirrorless Media thanks for lettings know about your experiences and indeed concluding the same results. I very pleased with they lights the really are superb. I think given the current battery technology limitations for NP-F type batteries. It may have been better to have offered a dual NP-F mount on the 55w light or use BP-U type batteries. However I know that would have changed the case design so I understand. Currently I have opted to run my 55w Boltzens via V-mount batteries with the supplied D-Tap cable. Currently doing a few tests with V-Mount at the moment and so far they are all happy to run at 100%. I guess this is less power requirement on the battery as this is driving 14.4v. And at 100% the current required is 3.8A (55/w14.4v) as opposed to 7.6A (55w/7.2v) when running on 7.2v.
Thanks for the info. For what it's worth I'm powering my 55W Boltzens to 100% with DSTE 7.4V 5000mAh batteries. They are roughly the NP-F770 equiv. I can have the light at 100% for roughly 35-40 minutes straight at 100%, then it started to flicker. But no cutting out. So yeah, no problems for me (knock on wood).
Hey Andrew thanks for sharing your experience. That's cool that the DTSE units will run all be it for a short time at 100%. I did find other battery manufacturers with larger capacity, some of which are stated as 10400mAh. Although as it's difficult to find out max current draw and involves running the batteries at their limit all the time I went for the vmount option. It's great in a pinch being able to briefly power on NP-F but it's not really usable for filming on those run durations.
I've had the same issue with my pearstone batteries. i just ordered DSTE batteries and just got them both all charged up. going to test later tonight. hoping it works at 100%. even at 20 mins that would be fantastic.
Hey brother, could you tell me the remote/power set up you are using for your lights? I LOVE the way you can just hit a button to turn them on like that.
Really appreciate the competent look. One thing i wished to see is the fresnel on you to see the step shadow they are most loved for (by dead dp's LOL.) I LOVED THE AFFECT OF SINGLE POINT anyway. Tempted to put most of my budget into one.
Will your light operate at full power, If so did you order your battery from Came-Tv, If not, send me the link where you ordered yours from. I'm not gonna pay for nothing that I can only get half of the power from.
you can always get 100% power if you power it via AC. However you have to make sure batteries provide enough power to get 100%. Check above comments to see this ;) cheers
Hey Em, what bowens mount adapter did you get for these? Do you have a link? I've been trying to switch my lighting kit over to have everything use bowens mounts but not sure where to find ones for these lights. Wanted to know before I pull the trigger and buy them.
Well the adapter is from CAMETV and it lets you use standard Bowen mount accessories on the Boltzen 30w and 55w. This link should help: www.came-tv.com/products/bowens-mount-ring-adapter After you get the adapter, If you need a softbox, they have this one now: www.came-tv.com/products/sb4040-foldable-and-quick-set-up-softbox-with-bowens-speedring
Thank you for the review! Any update about the remote? Does it work only with the app or it has a dedicated trigger? If only in app, which distance will it cover? Thank you again
These look great, thanks for sharing. One thing no one seems to be talking about, including Came-tv (have tried several times ) is output. I know you have the video testing output in a 6 foot tube, but I'd love to know what sort of output they have in a real world setting. Do you have any readings you can share? Thanks
is this tungsten, day or bi-color from CAME-TV: for the 55W： when in one meter, 60 degree angle： it is around 4064 Lux, 20 degree is around 13627 lux two meter , 60 degree angle ： around 1036LUX, 20 degree around 3038 lux. three meter , 60 degree ： around 452 lux , 20 degree is around 1283 lux. for the 30W : one meter, 60 degree angle, it is around 3150 Lux, 15 degree is around 18784 lux two meter , 60 degree angle , around 748 LUX, 15 degree around4591 lux. three meter , 60 degree , around 322 lux , 15 degree is around 1889 lux.
Thanks for the great review. One question, is that lens a true fresnel lens? It doesn't look like the one they showed in their prototype at IBC. It looks more like a focusable PAR lens. Can you confirm please?
The lens does not have the concentric rings like a typical fresnel. It is focusable, not just cropping the light. It focuses the beam so it gets brighter in the middle.
What do you think of the color accuracy? How would you compare the light output of the 55w? 300w Fresnel tungsten? 150w Fresnel tungsten? Thanks for all you do!!
Hey Cheesy, I'm going to order these lights. Are there any American resellers, or how long do they take to ship from China? I think I need these in my life ASAP!
These are new so I don't think anyone is carrying these yet. Shipping is typically quick but they have limited stock on these, so there might be a delay because of that. I tried to get two more but they told me it could be a few weeks.
so i have 3 aputure 672 led light panels and was hoping to get one of the daylight balanced lightstorm hard lights for my back or key light. Do these lights match the aputures do you know? Would save me some money from getting a light storm.
These are daylight color and they should match color with the 672 really well. These would work great as a backlight or rim light, but not sure about a front key light on a person. It may be too harsh.
MrCheesyCam i would use the light storm with the softbox for the key if it was daylight, maybe ill get one of these to put patterns on back walls. Do you have filters or special cutouts you use as cookies or is that more of a diy thing
Are these an overkill for a wedding? Looking to light a reception/dance room and curious if I need one or two of these. Hoping one because of my budget. They seem really nice from a somewhat midrange distance.
Thanks for the quick reply. Are your light stands also from Came TV? I'm looking to just buy one because of budget. I'm going to try and get the batteries that you were recommending to get.
Also, do you have a link or anything that way you get a little kick back of money towards you when I purchase them? Buying soon. Hope you reply if you do.
Hi; thanks for a great review. One thing that concerns me is whether the fan could become an issue in an interview situation. What are your thoughts? thanks
sorry; early morning and coffee deprived. I know that you mention the noise at 8:50 but what mic are you using and what sound treatment are you using? Thanks
No mic treatment at all. Thats the Azden SGM-250 just hanging over me. There's a few other reviews online they say the same thing. Fan shouldn't be an issue unless your light is right next to a mic, but these lights are designed to be away from your subject (longer throw) whereas a mic is usually very close to a subject.
I feel they would be, especially if you shoot with cameras that are great in low light (sony a7s, etc). These will be very bright for those types of cameras.
Good question. Actually you will get slightly less output running on Sony batteries since it is 7V and ac power is 12-14v. But if you use professional V-Mount or AB mount batteries that should give you 14V.
from CAME-TV: for the 55W： when in one meter, 60 degree angle： it is around 4064 Lux, 20 degree is around 13627 lux two meter , 60 degree angle ： around 1036LUX, 20 degree around 3038 lux. three meter , 60 degree ： around 452 lux , 20 degree is around 1283 lux. for the 30W : one meter, 60 degree angle, it is around 3150 Lux, 15 degree is around 18784 lux two meter , 60 degree angle , around 748 LUX, 15 degree around4591 lux. three meter , 60 degree , around 322 lux , 15 degree is around 1889 lux.
from CAME-TV: for the 55W： when in one meter, 60 degree angle： it is around 4064 Lux, 20 degree is around 13627 lux two meter , 60 degree angle ： around 1036LUX, 20 degree around 3038 lux. three meter , 60 degree ： around 452 lux , 20 degree is around 1283 lux. for the 30W : one meter, 60 degree angle, it is around 3150 Lux, 15 degree is around 18784 lux two meter , 60 degree angle , around 748 LUX, 15 degree around4591 lux. three meter , 60 degree , around 322 lux , 15 degree is around 1889 lux.
How is the color? Temp and green or magenta spike? How do these compare to aputure in terms of color rendition and accuracy? would they work well together?
Color is very good, no noticeable color casts (green or magenta), they have high CRI values. It would work well with the Aputure lights, but the Aputure COB120T that I have is Tungsten and these lights are Daylight color. Unless you get the new Aputure daylight version.
Thanks, yes, I have all daylight Aputure lights, for tungsten I still have all hotlights. Now if only I could get them at amazon or B&H I would be thrilled
24fps, 180 degree shutter (basically 1/48th), F/4.5, ISO 800. I shoot at ISO 800 because that's the base ISO for this camera. This was shot with Ursa Mini, not really the greatest low light camera, but these lights performed more than this camera needs.
I'm sorry, I just meant when you are shooting a scene with dialogue and not much else in terms of noise. Often times sounds like fans and AC seem negligible when shooting in less controlled environments like weddings or exteriors. But in scripted (maybe I shouldn't have said "feature" lol) work you're often controlling the environment much more and need to be careful about any unwanted sound entering the scene.
Could you use this light to add a soft spot light onto a background with blue gel like in your video or would u recommend another light? Could i attach gels to these lights easily?
Thank you. Would you recommend this light or Aputure Light Storm LS-mini20c for this purpose or may be another cheaper light for lighting bg? Really appreciate you taking the time to put the video together and answer the question!
+Final Cut Multimedia You can get full power but not for very long. The Sony batteries are limited in capacity. This is what I use cheesycam.tv/switbattery I suggest looking into v-mount batteries or look into the Dual Sony Adapter: cheesycam.tv/fbswit
MrCheesyCam thanks for your fast response, how much full power time would you give these lights running off of just that battery you use? And what do you think about these sold by Came-Tv www.came-tv.com/collections/boltzen-accessories/products/came-tv-np-fp60-battery The reason I'm attracted to these lights is portability and the less gear that I run & gun with is the better.
+Final Cut Multimedia Here's what you need to think about. With a Sony battery and the 30w you will get maybe 90 minutes of run time and close to full output (brightness). With a 55w and Sony battery you will have less output (brightness) and less run time as it is only 7V and a high draw. So if you only plan to run them off Sony batteries, you're not really benefitting from the 55w. The 30w was the original led light and designed to be optimized with all the features. The 55w was an 'option' that they squeezed in a fan, and it can still use Sony batteries when needed, but not really ideal for long term use. The D-tap should be your solution. It is not 7V, it is 14V so you get more brightness. And larger capacity runs longer. You may think you can run with less gear, but you'll end up carrying 4x (or more) Sony batteries than vmount, and you'll never reach optimum brightness from 7V.
I have seen the 100w version. There is two different models. One 100w model has a fan but is close to the size of the 55w. Another 100w does not have a fan, but it is slightly larger. The larger one has DMX controls also while the smaller ones don't.
+Jeremy Foster Very soon i'll be showing the medium and large size ones. Those can run off of batteries too so might be something to look at. Maybe hang tight before you make a decision.
from CAME-TV: for the 55W： when in one meter, 60 degree angle： it is around 4064 Lux, 20 degree is around 13627 lux two meter , 60 degree angle ： around 1036LUX, 20 degree around 3038 lux. three meter , 60 degree ： around 452 lux , 20 degree is around 1283 lux. for the 30W : one meter, 60 degree angle, it is around 3150 Lux, 15 degree is around 18784 lux two meter , 60 degree angle , around 748 LUX, 15 degree around4591 lux. three meter , 60 degree , around 322 lux , 15 degree is around 1889 lux.
Fine demonstration but is there really any scientific test of these lights? You could put almost any light 5 feet away and it's going to light someone up. This feels like a paid endorsement without any true testing of the capabilities...
Simply because you believe you can use any light, these lights are definitely not for you. Let's forget about scientific tests for a second. Here's the features in summary and i'd like you to send me a list of lights that you can find on the internet with the same features. #1 LED Light (not hot lights), #2 Spot and Flood Adjustments, #3 Barn Doors can be Flagged, #4 Bowens Mount Capable (for accessories), #4 Similar Size as these, #5 Runs on Small Batteries or Big Batteries, Under $300 dollars. Forget all the scientific mumbo jumbo, let's just look a the basic functions. Do a bit of research, send me a list, and then you'll understand that it's not about putting any light 5 feet from someone. It's about the functions, features, size, and price.
Hey, I think what you get for the price sounds good and I'm still considering them. However, as you have probably experienced, you can spend a lot of money buying on price and features, but get disappointed with performance. You can buy a light with the same features and it costs 2x or 3x as much. So, as a buyer, I'm trying to determine what exactly am I sacrificing in order to get the lower price. Maybe it's something minor or not, but if I know the difference, then make an educated choice.
Boltzen LED available at Amazon: amzn.to/2kAycjV
Hi Emm,
I have been looking into the powering of my 55w Boltzen lights the last few days and I hope you don't mind me posting my results from this as I think other users and potential users may find it helpful.
I was originally planning on running my 55w Boltzens lights via the Sony L-Series NP-F mount on the underside of the light. However when I initially tried this with a 3rd party NPF-970 I ran into a few issues. Mainly it not powering about 70% and cutting out. I also tested this with a friends NP-F batteries namely officials Sony and a number of unbranded and 3rd party batteries and again the same issue. This prompted me to do a bunch of tests and ask a bunch of questions to Came TV and yourself Emm. So here's the findings.
The Boltzens come in 55w and 30w. If powering by NP-F battery this is nominal 7.2v. Therefore the max current a battery is likely to see/deliver is 7.6A (55w/7.2v) and 4.2A (30w/7.2v). Therefore in order to to stop any of the Boltzens either cutting out or running at 100% you need a NP-F battery with a max current load of about 8A (55w light) and 4.5A (30w) light.
Looking online at various manufacturers of L-Series NP-F batteries very few seem to publish max current. They tend to publish voltage and capacity mAh specs. There were a few I could find, SWIT batteries max current is 4A and RedPro 5A. I have looked everywhere and discussed with quite a few battery manufacturers and no one seems to offer a 7.2V NP-F with a max current of 8A.
So in conclusion it really is not possible to power the 55w via NP-F battery at 100%. At best you can use the Red Pro and maybe get to 70-80%. However powering the 30w Boltzen lights is different and the RedPro should run at 100% and the SWIT should also get close to 100% too.
This led me to looking into powering my 55w lights via the provided D-Tap cable and V-mount batteries. The difference here is obviously higher capacities but more importantly 14.4v - 14.8v nominal voltage. Which is a max current for the 55w of 3.8A for 100%. I have tested my Boltzen 55w with a couple of Rolux V-mount batteries and the 55w powered at 100% without issue and for long durations. So I have opted to use V-mount on my 55w Boltzen lights, sadly NP-F on the 55w really not a viable option. Maybe as time progresses and battery technologies improve large capacity 8A 7.2v NP-F battery may become available but until then I a sticking with V-mount.
I should add that these lights are fantastic and I really like them and would recommend them, but just be aware powering the 55w version via NP-F L-Series not really viable option. However powering the 30w via NP-F L-Series will be ok.
So in the end what battery did I opt for. Well thanks to Emm's review on the MAXOAK V-mount 177 I went for these batteries. Just waiting for them to arrive now. Emm thanks for all your help and input. Hope you don't mind me posting such a long comment, however I thought my findings would help so many others and save people going through the pain that I did working this out. Thank you also to CAME-TV for there input as well, who have been quick responding to answer my questions.
Update: Following various discussions with CAME-TV about powering the 55W Boltzens via NP-F L-Series batteries they have confirmed the 8A requirement and as such updated their website with a very prominent statement to inform people of 8A requirement. Thanks CAME-TV for all your help and updating your website to reflect these details.
Thanks for the update. For many LED Lights that have alternate DC inputs such as this with a 7-14V, they will not run as bright at 7V than at 14V. That's just displaying the minimum operating voltage and I have a lot of LED lights that operate the same. But also keep in mind that running a 55w 'underpowered' on batteries could be close to a 30w running on batteries. But ideally if you want the longest run time and brightest possible output, the V-mount is the way to go. BTW, I just use small bags to hang my v-mounts on the stand.
+Mirrorless Media thanks for lettings know about your experiences and indeed concluding the same results.
I very pleased with they lights the really are superb.
I think given the current battery technology limitations for NP-F type batteries. It may have been better to have offered a dual NP-F mount on the 55w light or use BP-U type batteries. However I know that would have changed the case design so I understand. Currently I have opted to run my 55w Boltzens via V-mount batteries with the supplied D-Tap cable.
Currently doing a few tests with V-Mount at the moment and so far they are all happy to run at 100%. I guess this is less power requirement on the battery as this is driving 14.4v. And at 100% the current required is 3.8A (55/w14.4v) as opposed to 7.6A (55w/7.2v) when running on 7.2v.
Thanks for the info. For what it's worth I'm powering my 55W Boltzens to 100% with DSTE 7.4V 5000mAh batteries. They are roughly the NP-F770 equiv. I can have the light at 100% for roughly 35-40 minutes straight at 100%, then it started to flicker. But no cutting out.
So yeah, no problems for me (knock on wood).
Hey Andrew thanks for sharing your experience. That's cool that the DTSE units will run all be it for a short time at 100%.
I did find other battery manufacturers with larger capacity, some of which are stated as 10400mAh. Although as it's difficult to find out max current draw and involves running the batteries at their limit all the time I went for the vmount option.
It's great in a pinch being able to briefly power on NP-F but it's not really usable for filming on those run durations.
I've had the same issue with my pearstone batteries. i just ordered DSTE batteries and just got them both all charged up. going to test later tonight. hoping it works at 100%. even at 20 mins that would be fantastic.
Hey brother, could you tell me the remote/power set up you are using for your lights? I LOVE the way you can just hit a button to turn them on like that.
Really appreciate the competent look. One thing i wished to see is the fresnel on you to see the step shadow they are most loved for (by dead dp's LOL.) I LOVED THE AFFECT OF SINGLE POINT anyway. Tempted to put most of my budget into one.
Just bought a 55w through your link.
Thanks!
Will your light operate at full power, If so did you order your battery from Came-Tv, If not, send me the link where you ordered yours from. I'm not gonna pay for nothing that I can only get half of the power from.
you can always get 100% power if you power it via AC. However you have to make sure batteries provide enough power to get 100%. Check above comments to see this ;) cheers
Hey Em, what bowens mount adapter did you get for these? Do you have a link? I've been trying to switch my lighting kit over to have everything use bowens mounts but not sure where to find ones for these lights. Wanted to know before I pull the trigger and buy them.
Well the adapter is from CAMETV and it lets you use standard Bowen mount accessories on the Boltzen 30w and 55w. This link should help: www.came-tv.com/products/bowens-mount-ring-adapter
After you get the adapter, If you need a softbox, they have this one now: www.came-tv.com/products/sb4040-foldable-and-quick-set-up-softbox-with-bowens-speedring
Thank you for the review! Any update about the remote? Does it work only with the app or it has a dedicated trigger? If only in app, which distance will it cover? Thank you again
Thanks for the review. Would have liked a measure of output and colour accuracy. Cheers
Fantastic video! Been looking for something like this. Appreciate this very much. You do some amazing work.
These look great, thanks for sharing. One thing no one seems to be talking about, including Came-tv (have tried several times ) is output. I know you have the video testing output in a 6 foot tube, but I'd love to know what sort of output they have in a real world setting. Do you have any readings you can share? Thanks
is this tungsten, day or bi-color
from CAME-TV:
for the 55W：
when in one meter, 60 degree angle： it is around 4064 Lux, 20 degree is around 13627 lux
two meter , 60 degree angle ： around 1036LUX, 20 degree around 3038 lux.
three meter , 60 degree ： around 452 lux , 20 degree is around 1283 lux.
for the 30W :
one meter, 60 degree angle, it is around 3150 Lux, 15 degree is around 18784 lux
two meter , 60 degree angle , around 748 LUX, 15 degree around4591 lux.
three meter , 60 degree , around 322 lux , 15 degree is around 1889 lux.
Thanks for the great review. One question, is that lens a true fresnel lens? It doesn't look like the one they showed in their prototype at IBC. It looks more like a focusable PAR lens. Can you confirm please?
The lens does not have the concentric rings like a typical fresnel. It is focusable, not just cropping the light. It focuses the beam so it gets brighter in the middle.
Good to know, thanks for the speedy reply.
How effective are the barndoors at shaping the light? Can you make a nice, clean slash?
What do you think of the color accuracy? How would you compare the light output of the 55w? 300w Fresnel tungsten? 150w Fresnel tungsten?
Thanks for all you do!!
I will try to compare these with more traditional Arri fresnel lights when i'm back from traveling.
Hey, thanks for the great vid! You sound really good in this setup, What mics in what config are you using? I don't see a lav mic on your shirt.
I have a microphone over my head. It's a shotgun microphone pointed down towards me. In this setup i'm using the Azden SGM-250: goo.gl/3kAqY8
Excellent! thanks for the response!!
Hey Cheesy, I'm going to order these lights. Are there any American resellers, or how long do they take to ship from China? I think I need these in my life ASAP!
These are new so I don't think anyone is carrying these yet. Shipping is typically quick but they have limited stock on these, so there might be a delay because of that. I tried to get two more but they told me it could be a few weeks.
thanks Cheesy!
Humm...I wonder if I can use my source 4 cookies with these lights? If so, that would be a game changer for my interview setups.
Very informative review. Just ordered 2x.
Looks great! How much it weights the 55 watts?
so i have 3 aputure 672 led light panels and was hoping to get one of the daylight balanced lightstorm hard lights for my back or key light. Do these lights match the aputures do you know? Would save me some money from getting a light storm.
These are daylight color and they should match color with the 672 really well. These would work great as a backlight or rim light, but not sure about a front key light on a person. It may be too harsh.
MrCheesyCam i would use the light storm with the softbox for the key if it was daylight, maybe ill get one of these to put patterns on back walls. Do you have filters or special cutouts you use as cookies or is that more of a diy thing
Awesome review Em, Thanks!
As very often a GREAT review !!!
Thanks a lot !
Great breakdown thanks. How do you think these compare to the Litepanels Caliber lights??
The 55w Boltzen is several times brighter than the Litepanels Caliber.
How long do they last on battery power? I am currently looking at these here in China.
Are these an overkill for a wedding? Looking to light a reception/dance room and curious if I need one or two of these. Hoping one because of my budget. They seem really nice from a somewhat midrange distance.
Definitely not overkill. I think they are perfect and know many people already using them for weddings.
Thanks for the quick reply. Are your light stands also from Came TV? I'm looking to just buy one because of budget. I'm going to try and get the batteries that you were recommending to get.
Also, do you have a link or anything that way you get a little kick back of money towards you when I purchase them? Buying soon. Hope you reply if you do.
Thanks, you can use this Amazon link: cheesycam.tv/Boltzen
Good demo. Thanks!
Hi; thanks for a great review. One thing that concerns me is whether the fan could become an issue in an interview situation. What are your thoughts? thanks
sorry; early morning and coffee deprived. I know that you mention the noise at 8:50 but what mic are you using and what sound treatment are you using? Thanks
No mic treatment at all. Thats the Azden SGM-250 just hanging over me. There's a few other reviews online they say the same thing. Fan shouldn't be an issue unless your light is right next to a mic, but these lights are designed to be away from your subject (longer throw) whereas a mic is usually very close to a subject.
thanks for the reply.
What sort of battery life they have on the 30wat with those big Sony batteries?
No answer was the quick reply...
Thanks. Great review
I imagine they'll be good for a wedding reception?
I feel they would be, especially if you shoot with cameras that are great in low light (sony a7s, etc). These will be very bright for those types of cameras.
MrCheesyCam Thanks. I had been looking at Arri 650s but they're quite expensive. And luckily I shoot with A7SII
Sorry if this reply's too late to matter but any sort of tungsten lights would be a serious safety hazard at a wedding reception lol.
why do you say that?
did you end up using these at a wedding reception mate? if so do they work well?
great video! thank you for the post!
What is the narrowest angle that can be achieved with these lights?
Where did you find the white globe? Very nice light! Thanks
There's a bunch on Amazon. Just search for Bowens Mount and you'll find different modifiers in different sizes: amzn.to/2rS8lcf
Thanks!!
Do you get the same light output using either the power adapter or the battery?
Good question. Actually you will get slightly less output running on Sony batteries since it is 7V and ac power is 12-14v. But if you use professional V-Mount or AB mount batteries that should give you 14V.
from CAME-TV:
for the 55W：
when in one meter, 60 degree angle： it is around 4064 Lux, 20 degree is around 13627 lux
two meter , 60 degree angle ： around 1036LUX, 20 degree around 3038 lux.
three meter , 60 degree ： around 452 lux , 20 degree is around 1283 lux.
for the 30W :
one meter, 60 degree angle, it is around 3150 Lux, 15 degree is around 18784 lux
two meter , 60 degree angle , around 748 LUX, 15 degree around4591 lux.
three meter , 60 degree , around 322 lux , 15 degree is around 1889 lux.
30w at 15 degrees is stronger than the 55w's 20. i need super spot light so i guess i'll go with the 30w
I was surprised to see that as well.
from CAME-TV:
for the 55W：
when in one meter, 60 degree angle： it is around 4064 Lux, 20 degree is around 13627 lux
two meter , 60 degree angle ： around 1036LUX, 20 degree around 3038 lux.
three meter , 60 degree ： around 452 lux , 20 degree is around 1283 lux.
for the 30W :
one meter, 60 degree angle, it is around 3150 Lux, 15 degree is around 18784 lux
two meter , 60 degree angle , around 748 LUX, 15 degree around4591 lux.
three meter , 60 degree , around 322 lux , 15 degree is around 1889 lux.
How is the color? Temp and green or magenta spike? How do these compare to aputure in terms of color rendition and accuracy? would they work well together?
Color is very good, no noticeable color casts (green or magenta), they have high CRI values. It would work well with the Aputure lights, but the Aputure COB120T that I have is Tungsten and these lights are Daylight color. Unless you get the new Aputure daylight version.
Thanks, yes, I have all daylight Aputure lights, for tungsten I still have all hotlights. Now if only I could get them at amazon or B&H I would be thrilled
Could you natively put on a Profoto modifier on it?
anyway you can list your settings on your camera? iso, fstop, shutter speed etc
24fps, 180 degree shutter (basically 1/48th), F/4.5, ISO 800. I shoot at ISO 800 because that's the base ISO for this camera. This was shot with Ursa Mini, not really the greatest low light camera, but these lights performed more than this camera needs.
It would be nice if there's an adapter so I can put a Dedolight DP 1 Projection Attachment on these lights.
Do these lights come with stands?
Do you know of a softbox that would work well with these lights? I'm having trouble finding one that isn't too big.
I believe they are making a small foldable one that should be available soon.
Thanks for the review. Can you comment on the noise level on the boltzen 55w compared to the noise from the Aputure COB 120t?
Noise is not an issue on either of these lights.
I hate to belabor the point, but even for feature film work?
People have shot feature films with an iPhone. I'm not sure what qualifies a product to be used on a 'feature film'.
I'm sorry, I just meant when you are shooting a scene with dialogue and not much else in terms of noise. Often times sounds like fans and AC seem negligible when shooting in less controlled environments like weddings or exteriors. But in scripted (maybe I shouldn't have said "feature" lol) work you're often controlling the environment much more and need to be careful about any unwanted sound entering the scene.
Could you use this light to add a soft spot light onto a background with blue gel like in your video or would u recommend another light? Could i attach gels to these lights easily?
Yes these would work well to create that type of background halo.
Thank you. Would you recommend this light or Aputure Light Storm LS-mini20c for this purpose or may be another cheaper light for lighting bg? Really appreciate you taking the time to put the video together and answer the question!
Can you please provide a link to the right NP-F960 batteries that will give me the full power from these lights?
+Final Cut Multimedia You can get full power but not for very long. The Sony batteries are limited in capacity. This is what I use cheesycam.tv/switbattery
I suggest looking into v-mount batteries or look into the Dual Sony Adapter: cheesycam.tv/fbswit
MrCheesyCam thanks for your fast response, how much full power time would you give these lights running off of just that battery you use? And what do you think about these sold by Came-Tv
www.came-tv.com/collections/boltzen-accessories/products/came-tv-np-fp60-battery
The reason I'm attracted to these lights is portability and the less gear that I run & gun with is the better.
+Final Cut Multimedia Here's what you need to think about. With a Sony battery and the 30w you will get maybe 90 minutes of run time and close to full output (brightness). With a 55w and Sony battery you will have less output (brightness) and less run time as it is only 7V and a high draw. So if you only plan to run them off Sony batteries, you're not really benefitting from the 55w.
The 30w was the original led light and designed to be optimized with all the features. The 55w was an 'option' that they squeezed in a fan, and it can still use Sony batteries when needed, but not really ideal for long term use. The D-tap should be your solution. It is not 7V, it is 14V so you get more brightness. And larger capacity runs longer.
You may think you can run with less gear, but you'll end up carrying 4x (or more) Sony batteries than vmount, and you'll never reach optimum brightness from 7V.
Just ordered mine, thanks to you. The 3 light kit with everything.
do you have any experiences so far of the 100 watt version?
I have seen the 100w version. There is two different models. One 100w model has a fan but is close to the size of the 55w. Another 100w does not have a fan, but it is slightly larger. The larger one has DMX controls also while the smaller ones don't.
would this work for green screen screen without the lens? looks like you'd need two for an 8'×8' GS
I don't know if these lights will diffuse evenly even if without the lens.
Popping up outta nowhere, think I can put the new aputure fresnel ontop of The already mounted fresnel??
Hmm. Possibly? Not sure it would add any benefits..
for a 3-light set up for interviews/testimonials, what boltzen should i get?
+Jeremy Foster Very soon i'll be showing the medium and large size ones. Those can run off of batteries too so might be something to look at. Maybe hang tight before you make a decision.
just to light a simple interview, what kind of soft box would i buy for the 55 watt
They sell a softbox specifically for the Boltzen and you can find it on their site. You can't use anything too big on these small lights.
I've got a lot of complains from wedding guest that these lights are supposably too bright , that's the second time already
We use lights at weddings all the time. Never had complaints. It's just knowing when and where to use them, and how bright.
CAME-TV Boltzen WiFi Controller bought this for my 55 led and don't know how to activate it any one have one?
Does the Boltzen at it's lowest setting dim to 0%?
If you move the dimmer past 10% the light turns off.
Any LUX data?
from CAME-TV:
for the 55W：
when in one meter, 60 degree angle： it is around 4064 Lux, 20 degree is around 13627 lux
two meter , 60 degree angle ： around 1036LUX, 20 degree around 3038 lux.
three meter , 60 degree ： around 452 lux , 20 degree is around 1283 lux.
for the 30W :
one meter, 60 degree angle, it is around 3150 Lux, 15 degree is around 18784 lux
two meter , 60 degree angle , around 748 LUX, 15 degree around4591 lux.
three meter , 60 degree , around 322 lux , 15 degree is around 1889 lux.
How about flicker?
Can i record at 240fps without flicker?
I shot something on my iphone and didn't see any flicker. I'll try and test with a different camera. Not many cameras do 240fps.
no flicker at 960 fps also ;)
What’s the difference between Q series vs F Series ?
The new one can accept dual Sony batteries, has wifi built in, and also has built in effects like strobing, candlelight flicker, etc..
nice!
Can anyone tell me what the 55w weighs? CAME-TV still hasn't responded to me.
around 2 lbs without yoke, maybe lighter.
MrCheesyCam thanks a lot!!
Fine demonstration but is there really any scientific test of these lights? You could put almost any light 5 feet away and it's going to light someone up. This feels like a paid endorsement without any true testing of the capabilities...
Simply because you believe you can use any light, these lights are definitely not for you. Let's forget about scientific tests for a second. Here's the features in summary and i'd like you to send me a list of lights that you can find on the internet with the same features. #1 LED Light (not hot lights), #2 Spot and Flood Adjustments, #3 Barn Doors can be Flagged, #4 Bowens Mount Capable (for accessories), #4 Similar Size as these, #5 Runs on Small Batteries or Big Batteries, Under $300 dollars. Forget all the scientific mumbo jumbo, let's just look a the basic functions. Do a bit of research, send me a list, and then you'll understand that it's not about putting any light 5 feet from someone. It's about the functions, features, size, and price.
Hey, I think what you get for the price sounds good and I'm still considering them. However, as you have probably experienced, you can spend a lot of money buying on price and features, but get disappointed with performance. You can buy a light with the same features and it costs 2x or 3x as much. So, as a buyer, I'm trying to determine what exactly am I sacrificing in order to get the lower price. Maybe it's something minor or not, but if I know the difference, then make an educated choice.