German-based lighting manufacturer Astera continues to walk an intriguing line between cinema lighting and the company’s roots in the event lighting space. Their new RGB Mint Amber light, the 15W PixelBrick is a great example. At first glance, this boxy light would seem to be more at home on a stage as opposed to a set. However, the fact it’s powered by the Titan LED engine immediately gives it some clout in production, and this is thanks to the popularity of the Titan LED tube light with the same engine. First, a brief note regarding my philosophy on lighting reviews. In general, my method is comparing. How well does a light compare with other fixtures I use daily on set as a freelance director of photography? Here, the PixelBrick throws a curveball. I can’t think of another light with a similar physical footprint or a 13-degree beam angle. In that arena, PixelBrick stands alone. First impressions The PixelBrick with the dome attachment helps light small areas. Image Credit: Graham Sheldon / CineD The exterior design of the PixelBrick could potentially be compared with a less elongated Digital Sputnik DS1, but even so, the comparison isn’t that close. The PixelBrick has a unique look and a name more descriptive than you’d think: it contains one pixel and looks like a brick – hence, a “PixelBrick.” The rear control panel will feel familiar to anyone who has spent time with the Titan, Helios, or Hyperion line of Astera tube lights. You can...
Published By: CineD - Monday, 16 August, 2021