PAR vs. Fresnel (HMI)

[Thomas Worth]

Why are PAR HMIs so much more expensive than Fresnel HMIs?

[Brett B]

They are more expensive for two reasons. One is they put out more light than a standard Fresnel HMI. Second is they come with lenses which allow you to focus light.

[Kevin Zanit]

They are more expensive to buy, thus the rental house passes that on.

 

Also, as was said above the additional lenses (and case) are more money.

 

Some, like a 12k PAR can also be a 6k PAR by just switching the globe out. Thus you can replace two units with one (at least in their eyes).

 

 

Kevin Zanit

[Phil Rhodes]

Hi,

 

Don't get it. The PAR is inherently a simpler device, and in many ways less controllable.

 

Phil

[David Mullen ASC]

Because the PAR combines the globe and lens into a sealed unit, they are more expensive to replace when burned out than the globe in a fresnel lamp. At least, that's my theory as to why the rental houses charge more for large HMI PAR's. It may also just be due to the fact that the fresnel units may be older and have already earned their costs back...

[Laurent Andrieux]

When comparing renting costs, one should also keep in mind the time consumption. Some pars have no meters...