The space race in LED lighting for film has taken an exciting turn with the recent unveiling of two groundbreaking fixtures: Aputure’s new STORM XT52 and the Nanlux Evoke 5000B. Both lights promise industry-leading performance, but they do so with different philosophies, engineering choices and feature sets. Let’s take a closer look at how these two titans compare.

Aputure STORM XT52: A New Benchmark in COB LED Technology

Aputure’s latest innovation, the STORM XT52, is positioned as the brightest COB LED light available today. With an output that rivals some 9000W HMIs, the XT52 is designed for film professionals who demand high output without sacrificing quality or ease of use.

Key to its performance is the brand-new BLAIR light engine, a technology born out of Aputure’s collaboration with Prolycht. This engine utilises a unique mix of blue, lime, amber, indigo, and red emitters – a deviation from traditional RGBWW or even RGBACL systems. By incorporating an indigo emitter, Aputure has managed to extend the spectral range down to 380nm, thereby enhancing the reproduction of fluorescing materials and better matching natural daylight.

Additional highlights include:

• Colour and Tunability: A fully tunable white light with a broad CCT range (2500-10,000K) and full +/- Green adjustability. Moreover, the engine allows x,y coordinate colour tuning across 70% of Rec2020, offering exceptional versatility on set.
• Output and Dimming: With 48,000 Lux from a 35° reflector at 5 metres, and an impressive 10,000:1 dimming ratio, the XT52 is built for precision control in every lighting scenario.
• Portability: Despite its robust performance, the XT52 lamp head weighs a manageable 29kg, ensuring it can be operated by a single person on a standard crank stand—a crucial consideration for fast-paced film shoots.

Nanlux Evoke 5000B: The Pioneering Bi-colour LED Spotlight

In contrast, the Nanlux Evoke 5000B enters the arena as the world’s first bi-colour LED spotlight to offer green/magenta adjustment with a substantial power draw of 5000W. This innovative light is designed with versatility in mind, delivering a CCT range of 2700K-6500K and an impressive control over its colour output via an 80-point green/magenta adjustment.

Powered by the proprietary Nebula B4 Light Engine, the Evoke 5000B not only ensures efficient white light production but also promises an illuminance that approaches that of a 9kW HMI. The integrated design—with its lamp head, control unit, and power supply all housed in one robust unit—reduces setup time and improves on-set organisation.

Key aspects include:

• Engineering and Durability: Constructed with high-strength magnesium alloy and featuring an IP66-rated housing, the 5000B is built to withstand harsh shooting conditions while maintaining precise performance.
• User-Friendly Controls: Featuring a control panel with intuitive knobs, buttons, and a 4.3-inch display, it supports both wired and wireless operation (including DMX/RDM, Art-Net/sACN, and LumenRadio CRMX). This makes it a versatile tool on a modern set.
• Portability Considerations: Weighing in at 46kg with its yoke, the 5000B is slightly heavier than its Aputure counterpart, but its all-in-one design and integrated components streamline rigging and transport.

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Head-to-Head: Which Fixture Wins the Race?

Both the Aputure STORM XT52 and the Nanlux Evoke 5000B have distinct advantages that make them worthy competitors:

• Light Quality and Spectrum:
  Aputure’s BLAIR engine delivers an ultra-wide CCT range with full spectral coverage, especially beneficial when shooting in varying lighting conditions. Meanwhile, Nanlux’s Nebula B4 emphasises efficiency and bi-colour flexibility, ensuring excellent colour rendition across its operational range.
• Output and Efficiency:
  In terms of sheer brightness, the XT52’s 48,000 Lux output from a 35° reflector clearly outpaces the 5000B’s 22,210 Lux (with a 45° reflector) at 5600K. However, the 5000B’s design is tailored to deliver an output that rivals traditional HMIs, making it more than capable for large-area lighting.
• Portability and Design:
  The XT52 offers a significant advantage in weight and ease of set-up, appealing to smaller crews and on-the-go productions. The 5000B, with its robust construction and integrated design, is ideally suited for demanding environments where durability and all-in-one functionality are paramount.
• Control and Customisation:
  Aputure’s new cooling and control systems in the XT52 make it a user-friendly choice with advanced features that allow for precise adjustments. The 5000B, on the other hand, offers a comprehensive range of control options—from onboard interfaces to wireless DMX—ensuring it can integrate seamlessly into various lighting setups.

Final Thoughts

The battle for supremacy in the realm of LED film lighting is indeed heating up. Aputure’s STORM XT52 redefines what’s possible with COB LED technology by combining exceptional brightness, an innovative spectral engine, and ease of use. Conversely, Nanlux’s Evoke 5000B sets a high standard for bi-colour LED spotlights, particularly with its green/magenta adjustment and integrated design tailored for rugged use.

For filmmakers and lighting technicians, the choice between these two fixtures will likely boil down to specific shooting requirements. If absolute brightness and a broad spectrum are paramount, the XT52 is hard to beat. However, for those who prioritise durability, integrated design and versatile bi-colour control, the 5000B remains a compelling option.

With both models set to make waves at industry events such as the BSC Expo in London and the NAB Show in Las Vegas, it’s clear that the future of film LED lighting is as dynamic as ever. The LED space race is on, and whichever side you lean towards, innovation is lighting the way forward.

To start working with professional lighting equipment and step up your game on set, check out our upcoming lighting and cinematography courses in partnership with Sunbelt Rentals: View Crew Education