Just for reference at 7:00 , the latest generation Forza 500 II works with 26V, 14.4V and 14.8V V-Mount batteries. It runs at 60% power with two 14.8V and 100% power with two 26V. Full disclosure, I work for Nanlite USA, and of course we watch Justin's videos.
Oh man you say you're not the smartest but you deliver smart. I really got a lot out of this fine presentation YT and the best I have seen about GVM good and informative information thank you
This is a nice light and the app and your description of it, really sells it to me. GVM sounds like they are coming along good and I look forward to seeing your review of their wireless mic.
Great solid review. I place this one up there with Andrew Locke of Gaffer and Gear. Thorough, with the addition of 'real world' scenarios. Thanks for putting this one together. It's nice to see Godox step up their game. Aputure was in the same boat many years ago, and look how far they've come.
I really hope we get more videos about lighting gear. Once we get our first high quality camera we start to figure out that the lighting is far more important to creating that depth we see in film. I can tell that you do care about honesty in reviewing products and that it;s not just because you're sponsored. Otherwise you would have had this video brought to us by raid shadow legends.
Hi Justin thanks for the comprehensive review. I'm a newbie here and didn't 100% understand all your tech explanation (eg R9 etc) but appreciate your integrity in calling out some shortcomings. My simple take (apart from maybe buy a good meter and learn how to use) is that GVM are starting to up the competition to Apurture and Godox, which should logically end up benefiting all end users. Also that serious lights (high mass) require equally serious grip kit. This further adds to the heft, weight and cost. So, for a newbie, trying to learn, as a more 'run n gun' solo shooter type (currently), then this complexity can be 'parked' for now, whilst I continue trying to learn the basics of videography. I already know that I need to colour balance my camera pre-shooting a scene. Also that I need to learn how to finesse my colour grading in DaVinci. Heck, I even need to learn how to use and leverage Sony Log3. So much to learn... and unsurprisingly, the more I learn the better I appreciate what I have yet to master. So I liked and subscribed but need to get up to speed practicing the basics, before buying 'good enough' lights. I'm an amateur, ambitious to grow my skills to a solid 'pro level. I'm also looking to stay grounded, not losing sight that 'story is king' and not forgetting that great kit, with appropriate skill and collaboration can help, but that buying new gear isn't quite enough on it's own. I'm also a sucker for quality (luckily I can afford nice kit) but feel I need to be realistic. So I won't be buying an Arri anytime soon, nor getting a Ferrari to to do the grocery run.
Talking about the real world test... with the dome. Sure you did it right... About lack of energy : may be to much grid or too small a softbox ? Given that kind of result I would have make a break here, and invite another brand or softbox, and compare the results. Second video where the light quality doesn't convince me. The other one is the very GVM channel introducing this line up. Waiting for the community to work on these.
Wow, Good price points. Great review. However, that looks so close to an Aputure 600X. I've actually had good results with the paid version of the Sidus link app. I will use up to about 20 Aputure lights and put them in different groups with both an iPad and an Android phone connected with little issue. So for me, this is all about how well the GVM app works with grouped lights. Also, I wonder how much weight was added by making the GVM logo backlit? I would want an option to turn that off or cover it with gaff tape. I would be extremely interested if GVM starts making 1200w or larger sources at a $2000 price point. I'm glad to see more competition in the market. Oh, and did you mention the DMX options on this light? I think I missed it.
it does have DMX, i didn't really delve into it other than mentioning it and briefly showed the 8bit and 16bit options for it. But yea, the logo lighting up was iffy for me as well. I didn't realize Sidus link had a paid version, perhaps that would me much nicer.
I too hate the Sidus link app. It's slow and just not that good. The fact that you have to keep resetting the bluetooth and reconnecting them to the app on every light almost every time you turn them on, it's a pass for me.
I absolutely love mine!! I got it brand new for $799 ❤❤ I'd love for them to send you their new 1200 watt versions I have a full color and a bicolor! They must have also fixed the locking plate issue because mine doesn't have any play in it or wiggle like yours did.
I've been eyeing the 300W version of this to start building out my first lighting kit. I was also looking at the Colbor CL330 bi-color. Can you review the Colbor? If be interested to see all the color accuracy numbers for the Colbor and see if it's worth $550 vs the $389 for the GVM
i haven't had hands on the Colbor 330, but I did test out a different Colbor light some time ago, and the build quality was not great. It was sub par. I would put the Colbor lights on the same tier as the little SmallRig lights. They're quite cheaply made, all plastic. Very weak yokes, buttons fall off, etc.
@@JustinPhillip interesting, I Believe the new ones are made out of aluminum... If you can get your hands on the new CL 330 I would be very interested to hear more about it. The CL 330 also has G/M shift control/correction...
Definitely would take the GVM over the 300. This one packs way more of a punch plus has the versatility for bi-color. The 650B Pro is 28% more output than the mk ii version of the 300D.
I have reviewed smallrig lights on this channel. The ones i own are of poor build quality. They have not sustained the brutal real world sets that i work on. Knobs fall off, yokes strip, etc.
Well the Forza 500 being Daylight only is 8% more output. However, I think i'd pull the GVM 650 out of the van first just because of its versatility. And certainly if we were somewhere without access to power, the GVM would work because I don't have 26V v-mounts to use with the Forza.
@@JustinPhillipoh yes, I forget about the 26V you need for the Forza, yeah I am with you. Currently Using a Nanlite FS300B but i am looking for some Powerhouse to light bigger spaces or have the room to place my lights further away. Thank you for your Video I am just half way through your Video and will continue now xD
@@JustinPhillip Hey Justin, I just got FL20G in today but it won't lock on to my 650b. Did you have to modify or file down anything to make it fit? At first glance, it appears the distance of the flange lock is too narrow on the fresnel (or too wide on the light). It fits fine on the smallrig 450b.
@JustinPhilip can we get some clarification? Also GVM just released a compatible fresnel lens for this light, maybe they can hook you up with one… the only drawback is they are charging 300 where as the Nanlite is 200.
Hey Justin, thanks for the awesome review! I just bought the light and heard about the "modifiers are not fitting issue". I also bought the nanlite FL-20G because you said it fits. For me it doesn´t. How were you able to fit it on?
sadly these units were stolen from me, so i'm not able to go back and see what modifiers fit and what dont. smh. I was able to fit on the fresnel and an aputure dome, probably forced on 😆
When a light set to 5600, for example, actually has a reading of a couple or few hundred K less, is it wrong to bump up to 5800 or 5900 to get a readout that matches 5600 if that's what you're going for? As you've demonstrated here, I realize that every variable, especially changing the color temperature, can greatly affect the output and tint. Thanks! Love your videos!
not wrong at all. In fact that's what i would do. I have yet to come across any LED light that is 100% accurate in terms of kelvin readings. And the amount of hours on LED units will cause the kelvin temperatures to change as well.
@@JustinPhillip I greatly appreciate your response! I have owned the Sekonic C-800 for a while, but need to learn how to use more than the color temperature so as to better set my camera, etc.. Your detailed review helped me learn and be reminded of things to keep in mind when getting the best skin tones. Thanks again and all the best!
Great review! I learned a lot about the 650b. I purchased the Forza fresnel adapter but it does not click into place like my other Bowens mount modifiers and reflectors. Did you modify your ? Mine could be defective, reaching out to see for help before I return it.
Scrolled to the color metrics for 2700 and didn’t see it there, If you have it on hand, may you please let me know the TM-30 Rf score? Colors at 2700 is the only thing stopping me from pulling the trigger on this light.
What are you asking? If a 200W LED is enough? Re-watch the Specs Chapter 10:33 , and you'll get a good idea of how much power you need for most interior settings that have no windows.
dang. yea the apps are a bit of a PIA. my least favorite is the Astera app. I have the worst luck getting my NYX bulbs to work with that app. Honestly the best i've ever used with 100% reliability is the Rosco app.
@@JustinPhillip One more question if I may. Considering the Aputure LS 600d is now priced at $1090 at B&H, only $100 more than the GVM pro 650, which light fixture would you recommend?
China has no respect for the Aputure brand. They do all the research and development. They do all the US marketing and for what? So another Chinese company can knock them off... Great video though!
I thought Aputure products are also made in China. I’ve always had a suspicion that most these companies are owned by one big company. You know like Taco Bell and Pepsi, or McDonalds & Chipotle.
@@JustinPhillipThey could share suppliers, but they are real competitors. Despite ur involvement here, not sure they share the same product quality, time will tell. Needs more testing from the community at least, it's a bid soon to make any assessment.
They don't have the same US or international copyright laws that we are protected by. These companies just reverse engineer whatever product they feel like. They do the same thing in the Auto industry as well.
@tierangreen what do you mean by racket straping a stand ? Where do you strap your straps ? From the end of the boom (opposite side of the light fixture) to the base of the stand ?
Wow gvm stepped up in a big way
Indeed
Dude…. Review more lights… you do it right.. great channel
Thanks! Plenty already here that I've done :)
Just for reference at 7:00 , the latest generation Forza 500 II works with 26V, 14.4V and 14.8V V-Mount batteries. It runs at 60% power with two 14.8V and 100% power with two 26V. Full disclosure, I work for Nanlite USA, and of course we watch Justin's videos.
Damn, good to know! That's excellent news for sure. My Forza 500 is definitely the mark 1 version. thanks for the tip!
One of the best reviews about 650b. Well done.
Thank you
I really love that these smaller brands have kicked up their game lately and started swinging for the big boys
Oh man you say you're not the smartest but you deliver smart. I really got a lot out of this fine presentation YT and the best I have seen about GVM good and informative information thank you
Awesome. Thank you!
This is a nice light and the app and your description of it, really sells it to me. GVM sounds like they are coming along good and I look forward to seeing your review of their wireless mic.
🙌🏼
Great solid review. I place this one up there with Andrew Locke of Gaffer and Gear. Thorough, with the addition of 'real world' scenarios. Thanks for putting this one together. It's nice to see Godox step up their game. Aputure was in the same boat many years ago, and look how far they've come.
Thanks! I appreciate that.
Are Godox and GVM the same company?
@@danilogonzalezmx No, but I transposed them for some reason.
@@OrenArieli 👍
I really hope we get more videos about lighting gear. Once we get our first high quality camera we start to figure out that the lighting is far more important to creating that depth we see in film.
I can tell that you do care about honesty in reviewing products and that it;s not just because you're sponsored. Otherwise you would have had this video brought to us by raid shadow legends.
😆
Awesome video man. Really appreciate the effort it takes to make these video.
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it
Thank you, Justin Phillip.🌹
You got it!
Best lighting review ever!!! Thanks for the details and work that went into this!
Awesome! Thank you
Just got the 300. I hope it performs as well as this to a degree
be sure to let us know!
Hi Justin thanks for the comprehensive review. I'm a newbie here and didn't 100% understand all your tech explanation (eg R9 etc) but appreciate your integrity in calling out some shortcomings. My simple take (apart from maybe buy a good meter and learn how to use) is that GVM are starting to up the competition to Apurture and Godox, which should logically end up benefiting all end users. Also that serious lights (high mass) require equally serious grip kit. This further adds to the heft, weight and cost.
So, for a newbie, trying to learn, as a more 'run n gun' solo shooter type (currently), then this complexity can be 'parked' for now, whilst I continue trying to learn the basics of videography.
I already know that I need to colour balance my camera pre-shooting a scene. Also that I need to learn how to finesse my colour grading in DaVinci. Heck, I even need to learn how to use and leverage Sony Log3. So much to learn... and unsurprisingly, the more I learn the better I appreciate what I have yet to master. So I liked and subscribed but need to get up to speed practicing the basics, before buying 'good enough' lights.
I'm an amateur, ambitious to grow my skills to a solid 'pro level. I'm also looking to stay grounded, not losing sight that 'story is king' and not forgetting that great kit, with appropriate skill and collaboration can help, but that buying new gear isn't quite enough on it's own. I'm also a sucker for quality (luckily I can afford nice kit) but feel I need to be realistic. So I won't be buying an Arri anytime soon, nor getting a Ferrari to to do the grocery run.
You’re on the right path! Thanks for the sub!
Great video review man!
Love this lights, sadly it's too heavy to ship it to my country... 18 dollars by kilo, just to import it !
Greetings man!!!
Oh wow!
These lights look very interesting.
💯
Solid review, I’ve noticed it seems to have a more of a off white color than the other brands I’ve seen before, seeing from other reviews as well
Definite color shift. As shown in the Color Test chapter 🤙🏼
Great breakdown. Glad I stumbled upon the channel
🙌🏼
Talking about the real world test... with the dome. Sure you did it right... About lack of energy : may be to much grid or too small a softbox ?
Given that kind of result I would have make a break here, and invite another brand or softbox, and compare the results.
Second video where the light quality doesn't convince me. The other one is the very GVM channel introducing this line up.
Waiting for the community to work on these.
good notes 🤙🏼
Wow, Good price points. Great review. However, that looks so close to an Aputure 600X. I've actually had good results with the paid version of the Sidus link app. I will use up to about 20 Aputure lights and put them in different groups with both an iPad and an Android phone connected with little issue. So for me, this is all about how well the GVM app works with grouped lights. Also, I wonder how much weight was added by making the GVM logo backlit? I would want an option to turn that off or cover it with gaff tape. I would be extremely interested if GVM starts making 1200w or larger sources at a $2000 price point. I'm glad to see more competition in the market. Oh, and did you mention the DMX options on this light? I think I missed it.
it does have DMX, i didn't really delve into it other than mentioning it and briefly showed the 8bit and 16bit options for it. But yea, the logo lighting up was iffy for me as well. I didn't realize Sidus link had a paid version, perhaps that would me much nicer.
@@JustinPhillip It’s still not perfect. Sidus link still has some issues. I would love to find a better option or maybe just run everything via DMX ?
Yea DMX for sure
I too hate the Sidus link app. It's slow and just not that good. The fact that you have to keep resetting the bluetooth and reconnecting them to the app on every light almost every time you turn them on, it's a pass for me.
💯
I love this stuff. lol I love what you do. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for watching! 🙏🏼
100% REAL. great review
I absolutely love mine!! I got it brand new for $799 ❤❤ I'd love for them to send you their new 1200 watt versions I have a full color and a bicolor! They must have also fixed the locking plate issue because mine doesn't have any play in it or wiggle like yours did.
Yes i wanted to see that 1200 too.
I've been eyeing the 300W version of this to start building out my first lighting kit. I was also looking at the Colbor CL330 bi-color. Can you review the Colbor? If be interested to see all the color accuracy numbers for the Colbor and see if it's worth $550 vs the $389 for the GVM
i haven't had hands on the Colbor 330, but I did test out a different Colbor light some time ago, and the build quality was not great. It was sub par. I would put the Colbor lights on the same tier as the little SmallRig lights. They're quite cheaply made, all plastic. Very weak yokes, buttons fall off, etc.
@@JustinPhillip interesting, I Believe the new ones are made out of aluminum... If you can get your hands on the new CL 330 I would be very interested to hear more about it. The CL 330 also has G/M shift control/correction...
Hey Justin. Good walk through. Would you suggest getting this light, 650, over an Aputure 300D? Like to hear your opinion. Thanks bud.
Definitely would take the GVM over the 300. This one packs way more of a punch plus has the versatility for bi-color. The 650B Pro is 28% more output than the mk ii version of the 300D.
Thanks for the input. Keep up the good work with the videos. A lot of value you are bringing to this space.
I’m glad there are no-name options for cine gear these days.
😆
Good video as usual man.
Thank you!
It's really Great light for budget, if you had some experience with Smallrig lights for example RC450B what's about it?
I have reviewed smallrig lights on this channel. The ones i own are of poor build quality. They have not sustained the brutal real world sets that i work on. Knobs fall off, yokes strip, etc.
looks interesting, would you prefer it to a say forza 500?
Well the Forza 500 being Daylight only is 8% more output. However, I think i'd pull the GVM 650 out of the van first just because of its versatility. And certainly if we were somewhere without access to power, the GVM would work because I don't have 26V v-mounts to use with the Forza.
@@JustinPhillipoh yes, I forget about the 26V you need for the Forza, yeah I am with you. Currently Using a Nanlite FS300B but i am looking for some Powerhouse to light bigger spaces or have the room to place my lights further away. Thank you for your Video I am just half way through your Video and will continue now xD
🙏🏼
Hey Justin, great in depth review. I was curious if you had and/or were able to test out the Nanlite fresnel with this unit.
yes. 668fc at full flood & 2,537fc at full spot. 🤙🏼
Ty sir! @@JustinPhillip
@@JustinPhillip Hey Justin, I just got FL20G in today but it won't lock on to my 650b. Did you have to modify or file down anything to make it fit? At first glance, it appears the distance of the flange lock is too narrow on the fresnel (or too wide on the light). It fits fine on the smallrig 450b.
@JustinPhilip can we get some clarification? Also GVM just released a compatible fresnel lens for this light, maybe they can hook you up with one… the only drawback is they are charging 300 where as the Nanlite is 200.
Is there anyway I can run this light 100% with stronger batteries?
nope
Hey Justin, thanks for the awesome review!
I just bought the light and heard about the "modifiers are not fitting issue". I also bought the nanlite FL-20G because you said it fits. For me it doesn´t. How were you able to fit it on?
sadly these units were stolen from me, so i'm not able to go back and see what modifiers fit and what dont. smh. I was able to fit on the fresnel and an aputure dome, probably forced on 😆
@@JustinPhillipthat’s actually interesting! I bought a new fl20g. Maybe they changed something about it since you got yours.
When a light set to 5600, for example, actually has a reading of a couple or few hundred K less, is it wrong to bump up to 5800 or 5900 to get a readout that matches 5600 if that's what you're going for? As you've demonstrated here, I realize that every variable, especially changing the color temperature, can greatly affect the output and tint. Thanks! Love your videos!
not wrong at all. In fact that's what i would do. I have yet to come across any LED light that is 100% accurate in terms of kelvin readings. And the amount of hours on LED units will cause the kelvin temperatures to change as well.
@@JustinPhillip I greatly appreciate your response! I have owned the Sekonic C-800 for a while, but need to learn how to use more than the color temperature so as to better set my camera, etc.. Your detailed review helped me learn and be reminded of things to keep in mind when getting the best skin tones. Thanks again and all the best!
Awesome!
Great review! I learned a lot about the 650b. I purchased the Forza fresnel adapter but it does not click into place like my other Bowens mount modifiers and reflectors. Did you modify your ? Mine could be defective, reaching out to see for help before I return it.
sadly this unit and my fresnel was stolen, so i can longer test for myself. Can't recall how we attached it. Apolgoies.
Sorry to hear but thanks for the quick response@@JustinPhillip
GVM has a dedicated fresnel now. I guess their bowens mount is just millimeters deeper than the Forza unfortunately.
Does one of thr buttons on thr dial pop off for a reason? I just got this and it keeps popping off.
Oh no!! I have not experienced that. You should definitely let them know
Is there anyway that you could tell us the TM-30/SSI scores? For me thats a bit more helpful than the other metrics. Thank You.
😆 There's an entire chapter devoted to SSI 25:11
There's also a shot of the TM-30 chart at 5:59
Thank you. Please excuse me I missed that. Well done on this video. 👏
Scrolled to the color metrics for 2700 and didn’t see it there, If you have it on hand, may you please let me know the TM-30 Rf score? Colors at 2700 is the only thing stopping me from pulling the trigger on this light.
How many watts do you think you really need. Is 200 not enough?
What are you asking? If a 200W LED is enough? Re-watch the Specs Chapter 10:33 , and you'll get a good idea of how much power you need for most interior settings that have no windows.
Which nanlite forza fresnel you used with that?
The big one.
Sadly the GVM app essentially sucks. Especially when trying to control multiple lights. If it even works at all
dang. yea the apps are a bit of a PIA. my least favorite is the Astera app. I have the worst luck getting my NYX bulbs to work with that app. Honestly the best i've ever used with 100% reliability is the Rosco app.
I read aputure fresnels lens adapters don't fit this light? can't someone confirm this?
Wish i could, but someone stole it
@@JustinPhillip One more question if I may. Considering the Aputure LS 600d is now priced at $1090 at B&H, only $100 more than the GVM pro 650, which light fixture would you recommend?
Dude I just got one of these. It's so Heavy I'm sending it back. The weight is so unnecessary.
😂 Yea man the case definitely needs wheels. Its the weight of a 1200d 😅
China has no respect for the Aputure brand. They do all the research and development. They do all the US marketing and for what? So another Chinese company can knock them off... Great video though!
I thought Aputure products are also made in China. I’ve always had a suspicion that most these companies are owned by one big company. You know like Taco Bell and Pepsi, or McDonalds & Chipotle.
@@JustinPhillipThey could share suppliers, but they are real competitors. Despite ur involvement here, not sure they share the same product quality, time will tell. Needs more testing from the community at least, it's a bid soon to make any assessment.
They don't have the same US or international copyright laws that we are protected by. These companies just reverse engineer whatever product they feel like. They do the same thing in the Auto industry as well.
Aputure is a chinese company.
Rigging those booms with that many sandbags is NOT safe…. Bag your base and ratchet strap your stand! You’ll be fine.
@tierangreen what do you mean by racket straping a stand ? Where do you strap your straps ? From the end of the boom (opposite side of the light fixture) to the base of the stand ?
bad colors = bad light... that's it !
👌🏼