Gear article

Equinox Spectra Strobe Batten

The Equinox Spectra Strobe Batten is a high-intensity LED strobe and wash light bar designed for stage and event production. It features a dual-layer LED configuration consisting of 192 RGB LEDs for colour effects and a central strip of 96 white LEDs for high-speed strobing.

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Overview

The Equinox Spectra Strobe Batten is a versatile lighting fixture that combines the functions of a traditional strobe light with a multi-segment colour wash. It is built around a hybrid design, featuring a central strip dedicated to cool white stroboscopic effects flanked by RGB colour zones. This design allows lighting designers to transition seamlessly between vibrant atmospheric washes and aggressive rhythmic strobe patterns using a single unit.

Design and Hardware

The hardware utilises high-efficiency Surface Mount Device (SMD) technology. The colour section consists of 192 SMD 5050 RGB LEDs distributed across 16 independently controllable segments. The strobe section uses 96 SMD 5630 white LEDs. A notable feature is the inclusion of two interchangeable front screens: a clear screen for maximum punch and intensity, and a 'milky frost' screen for a softer, diffused effect. The unit provides an ultra-wide 135-degree viewing angle, ensuring broad coverage for stages and dance floors.

Control and Features

The Spectra Strobe Batten offers multiple operation modes including automatic, sound active, and manual control via its rear-mounted LED control panel with a four-button menu. For professional use, various DMX channel modes are available.

Key features include: * Segment Control: 16 segments of RGB control for complex chase sequences. * Variable Speed: Adjustable strobe frequency and chase rates. * Dynamic Effects: Pre-programmed chase patterns and colour palettes. * Physical Versatility: Mounting brackets allow for floor standing or truss mounting.

Sound Character and Application

In terms of visual character, the unit is capable of creating fluid colour transitions and high-impact white flashes. Because it utilizes SMD 5630 LEDs for the strobe, the intensity is significantly higher than standard decorative bars. It is particularly suited for mobile DJs, small venues, and touring bands who require a lightweight, budget-friendly fixture that performs two distinct roles (strobe and wash).

Comparison with Alternatives

Positioned at a price point of approximately £105, the Spectra Strobe Batten is more specialized than basic PAR cans such as the Cameo ROOT PAR 4. While moving heads like the Equinox Fusion 120Q or the Eurolite TMH-41 offer directional movement, the Spectra Batten offers wider static coverage and specific stroboscopic segmenting that moving heads typically lack. Control can be integrated with universal systems such as the Eurolite Move 512 or wireless solutions like the Chauvet DJ FlareCON Air 2.

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Frequently asked questions

How many LEDs does the Spectra Strobe Batten have in total?
The unit features a total of 288 LEDs. This includes 192 RGB SMD 5050 LEDs for colour and 96 White SMD 5630 LEDs for the central strobe strip.
What is the viewing angle of this light?
The fixture has a wide 135-degree viewing angle. This provides extensive horizontal coverage suitable for washing wide stages or dance floors.
Can the strobe and colour wash be used at the same time?
Yes, the hybrid design allows the RGB LEDs and the central white strobe strip to be operated either independently or simultaneously for complex lighting scenes.
Does the unit come with different lens options?
Yes, it includes both a clear front screen and a 'milky' frost effect screen. These can be swapped depending on whether you want sharp brightness or a softer, diffused glow.
How many segments can be controlled for chase effects?
The RGB LEDs are divided into 16 individual segments. This allows users to create detailed horizontal chase patterns and dynamic colour movements.
Is the white LED strip pure white or RGB-mixed?
The central strip uses dedicated SMD 5630 white LEDs. This ensures a true, high-intensity cool white light for stroboscopic effects that is sharper than mixed RGB white.
How do you adjust the settings on the device?
The fixture features a rear-mounted control panel with an LED display and four buttons. Through this menu, users can select modes, change DMX addresses, or pick internal programs.
What kind of cooling system does the batten use?
The unit is designed with an efficient housing to manage heat from the SMD LEDs. This ensures it remains operational throughout long sets without overheating.
Is this fixture suitable for DMX control?
Yes, it features various DMX modes to allow full integration with controllers such as the Eurolite Move 512 or wireless DMX interfaces.
Can the strobe speed be adjusted?
The fixture features a variable strobe function. The speed can be adjusted manually via the control panel or controlled remotely through DMX.
What mounting options are available?
The Spectra Strobe Batten is equipped with mounting brackets. These allow the unit to be bolted to an overhead lighting rig (truss) or positioned on the floor as an up-lighter.
What is the primary target market for this product?
Given its compact size, dual functionality, and price point of roughly £105, it is ideal for mobile entertainers, small nightclubs, and amateur theatre productions.