Hello,
I'm comparing 3 HMI fixtures that will get me the most light output on a 16a 230v (French) circuit. Here, in France we are able to get between 2500w to 3000w on a single breaker, depending on the houselhold config and its age.
So, all three fixtures: the Arri M18, D25 and AS25 (Arrisun 4k bulbed at 2.5kW) have their own qualities and functions (facetted reflector, fresnel and par lenses) and I'm not here to compare their uses as it depends on the project. I haven't had any time getting all three on the same set to compare - but I've had multiple lamp ops tell me - and some info the web - about the similar light output all three fixtures will get you. I know the M18 is quite efficient and will stand quite close the the D25 - which loses quite a bit with its fresnel - but how about the AS25 with a narrow lens?
I have looked at Arri's photometric calculator - but it doesn't seem to always be that accurate to my configs and output on set, beyond the lamp efficiency and age.
Let me know if you have any thoughts, ideas or knowledge to share - don't hesitate.
Cheers,
- Jules.