Litepanel Astra 6X Bi-Color – Film, TV & Studio Lighting

Yes. The Astra 6X supports onboard dial control, Bluetooth, wired DMX (RJ-45/XLR5), and wireless DMX modules, enabling flexible multi-unit setups. For OB van deployments requiring tight sync and reliable range, wired DMX is recommended as the primary backbone; Bluetooth suits smaller crews or mobile single-unit control. Wireless DMX is viable where RF interference is minimal. All three can coexist on the same unit via optional module cards. Confirm which control modules are pre-installed on your units to avoid integration delays.

The 1583 lux specification at 10 ft (3 m) and 5600K represents usable key light output for close-range work. At 1.5 m, output rises to 6330 lux, making the unit strong for fill and back light at standard set distances. For three-point setups, pair one Astra 6X as key with auxiliary fill sources, or position it at 1.5–2 m for standalone key work. The 46° beam angle ensures controllable spill on modest sets. Measure your actual throw distance and required lux to confirm adequacy before purchase.

The Astra 6X draws maximum 105W and accepts 100–240V AC or 13–24V DC via V-Mount or Gold Mount battery plates, offering genuine flexibility. For flypack, V-Mount (common in ENG/cinema) integrates with existing camera systems; Gold Mount suits heavier rigs. Battery runtime depends on dimming level and battery capacity—confirm your battery pack's mAh rating and calculate expected duration. AC power with a 20A circuit is sufficient for 4–6 units. Hybrid approach (AC for base, batteries for mobile segments) minimizes logistical friction. Verify your battery stock's voltage specification matches the unit's DC input range.

LED flicker-free specification means the unit's dimming waveform does not introduce visible flicker at standard frame rates (24p, 25p, 29.97p, 50p, 59.94p). High-speed cinema or slow-motion work (120fps and above) requires independent verification; flicker-free design reduces but does not eliminate risk at extreme frame rates. Before committing units to high-speed shoots, run on-set tests with your actual camera at target frame rates. Document results and maintain test footage in your pre-production records. Consult Litepanel's application notes for any published high-frame-rate guidance.

Bi-color tuning adjusts the red and blue LED arrays to deliver CRI 97 and TLCI 98 across the full 3200K to 5600K range with 0–100% smooth dimming. Consistency is maintained because color temperature is independent of dimming level—a preset at 4000K remains 4000K whether dimmed to 20% or 100%. However, confirm onboard dial resolution or control software precision, as subtle preset mismatches across multiple units may require manual correction. Test your planned color presets (e.g., 3200K tungsten match, 5600K daylight) on set under subject lighting to validate subjective appearance.

The Astra 6X at 105W maximum draw generates moderate heat, with an aluminum chassis designed for passive dissipation. Sustained operation at full output without auxiliary ventilation is feasible in open-air studio settings. In confined OB vans, ensure 4–6 inches of clearance around the unit and consider ambient cabin temperature; prolonged high-output operation in unventilated enclosures may reduce LED lifespan or trigger thermal shutdown. Acoustic noise is minimal (LED units produce no fan noise at lower dimming levels). Verify your OB van's thermal management plan and confirm whether forced ventilation or thermal monitoring is needed for your duty cycle.

The Astra 6X supports DMX control (wired and wireless), which is the broadcast standard for networked lighting rigs. It does not natively support IP-based protocols (ST 2110, NMOS) or vendor-proprietary studio control systems (Grass Valley, Ross, etc.). For integration into networked studios, use a DMX-over-IP gateway or lighting control console that bridges DMX to your facility's control infrastructure. Confirm your studio's DMX ecosystem and whether a gateway device is required before final equipment selection. Onboard dial and Bluetooth control remain independent fallback options if network control fails.

Yes, every used or ex-demo unit is tested and covered by a 90-day warranty. In the event of a failure, the round-trip transport cost is shared equally between the customer and Broadcast Depot.

Yes, Broadcast Depot ships worldwide. We arrange transport on quotation, or you can use your own carrier. Delivery usually takes 3 to 5 days. OB vans are delivered by driver or collected on site.

Yes, in case of an error or if you would like another product from our stock: returns and exchanges are possible with no time limit. Contact us to arrange it.