At NAB 2016 I spoke to Connor from F&V about their new Z400S Soft 1×1 LED panel. The internals of the light are different to those of previous F&V 1×1 lights, allowing for a more efficient and greater power output. F&V claim that the new light has twice the output of their previous panels. As the new lights name suggests, it features a built in diffusion panel to help create a nice soft source.
The Z400S Soft is Bi-colour and fully dimmable. F&V also say that the output of the light remains constant regardless of what colour temperature you have it set at. There also have a optional soft box available to help control the spread of light. The light also features a built in V-lock battery plate (it can also be ordered as a Anton Bauer).
F&V have aslo made some changes to their popular R300 Ring Light. It was previously only available in either a daylight or tungsten version, but due to customer feedback the company have now made a Bi-colour version available.
I measured the photometrics of the Z400S Soft with a Sekonic C-700 and you can see those results below:
Light set at 5600k
Light set at 3200k
As you can see the light was extremely colour accurate when tested at both 3200 and 5600k settings. It put out 2120lx at a distance of 1 metre when tested at 3200k and 2290lx when tested at 5600k, which backs up the manufacturers claims of having a consistent output regardless of colour temperature. The light is certainly impressive given its relatively low price compared to other 1x!1 Bi-colour panels.
The Z400S Soft 1×1 LED panel will be available within the next 1 to 2 months and you can pre-order it now for around $990US. There is also a kit available that comes with the light, a softbox and a bag for $1099US. The Bi-colour R300 Ring Light will be available for $290US. For more information keep a look at http://www.ultrasoftlight.com
