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Differences Between Beam Lights and Moving Head Lights

by Newfeel Lighting on Oct 18, 2024

Table of Contents
  • 1. Differences in Light Source and Application
  • 2. Differences in Effect and Purpose
  • 3. Differences in Light Effect and Usage Distance
  • 4. Choosing the Right Lighting Based on the Venue
  • Advantages of the NEWFEEL 380 Waterproof Moving Head Beam
In stage lighting design, beam lights and moving head lights are two commonly used stage lights, each with distinct characteristics in terms of effect and application. Choosing the right lighting fixture is essential for every lighting designer.
This article provides a detailed comparison of beam lights and moving lights, including practical usage scenarios, to help designers and users make the best choices for various event lighting needs.
1. Differences in Light Source and Application
Beam lights are primarily used for creating intense beam effects, typically utilizing metal halide lamps. Due to their narrow beam angle, beam lights create extremely bright and focused beams, making them ideal for high-energy settings like laser light shows and laser dj lights during event lighting. These lights are commonly used for laser shows in large venues to deliver powerful visual impact.
On the other hand, moving head lights (or moving lights) use discharge lamps and project a cone-shaped beam that covers a larger area. These moving heads are better suited for creating softer, more artistic lighting, often used in theater lights or performances requiring delicate lighting effects. By adjusting colors and patterns, moving head lights can be used to enhance emotional expressions in a show.
Use Case: Music Festival Opening Show
Laser lights
During a large outdoor music festival opening, the designer used the NEWFEEL 380 Waterproof Moving Head Beam in combination with high-energy music. The beam lights shot bright, concentrated beams, delivering a powerful effect that mirrored a laser show. This electrified the audience and set the perfect tone for the performance.
2. Differences in Effect and Purpose
The key feature of beam lights is their ability to produce sharp, bright beams, making them ideal for large-scale event lighting such as concerts or laser light shows. These lights provide crisp, high-intensity lighting that creates a striking visual impact.
In contrast, moving head lights are more versatile in their ability to project patterns. These lights rotate and move dynamically, making them perfect for both concerts and more intimate settings like theater productions, where the interplay of patterns and colors is essential. Moving heads are also commonly used in laser dj lights setups to create a more immersive experience.
Use Case: Theater Performance with Moving Head Lights
Laser lights
In a small theater performance, the designer used NEWFEEL 380 Moving Head Lights to create dynamic, pattern-based visuals. The lights’ rotation and color changes were synchronized with the actors’ movements, integrating the lighting as part of the story. This highlighted the effectiveness of moving lights in theater lights setups, where both atmosphere and precision are key.
3. Differences in Light Effect and Usage Distance
Beam lights are effective for long-distance lighting, typically over 10 meters, and are ideal for large venues where powerful, concentrated beams are needed. They are perfect for outdoor events and large arenas, where they can enhance laser light shows or other large-scale performances. However, in smaller venues, their intense beams can cause discomfort.
On the other hand, moving head lights are more adaptable to shorter distances, performing well at around 6 meters. They are ideal for small event lighting setups, such as in bars or smaller concert halls, where the lighting needs to be more subdued yet dynamic.
Use Case: Bar Event with Moving Head Lights
Laser lights
In a low-ceiling bar, the designer chose moving head lights over beam lights to avoid overpowering the space with bright beams. Instead, the moving heads provided soft, yet engaging lighting effects that kept the ambiance comfortable for guests while still delivering a visually interesting setup. This case highlights how moving lights can be the perfect choice for smaller event lighting.
4. Choosing the Right Lighting Based on the Venue
When deciding between beam lights and moving head lights, it’s essential to consider the venue size, distance, and desired effects. For large spaces with high ceilings, beam lights are often the best option, while moving lights provide more flexibility for smaller venues.
Use Case: Stadium Opening Ceremony
Laser lights
In a stadium opening ceremony, the designer used a combination of beam lights and moving head lights to create a multi-layered lighting effect. The beam lights added intensity and sharpness to key moments, while the moving heads provided more intricate lighting effects, such as pattern changes and dynamic movement. This balanced combination delivered both high-impact visuals and subtle atmospheric changes.
Advantages of the NEWFEEL 380 Waterproof Moving Head Beam
Laser lights
The NEWFEEL 380 Waterproof Moving Head Beam is a top choice for professional event lighting, offering powerful features that suit various applications. Its advantages include:
Color System: 11 colors + white light, dual-direction rotation with adjustable speed, capable of achieving half-color effects.
Pattern System: 17 fixed patterns + white light, with dual-direction rotation and pattern shaking for enhanced visual effects.
Prism System: 8-prism and 16-prism options with dual-direction rotation and overlay effects, providing depth and dimension to the lighting.
Dimming System: 0-100% linear dimming, supporting 16-bit fine dimming for smooth transitions.
Light Source: 550W Osram bulb with a beam angle of 2°, color temperature of 7800K, and a lifespan of 1500 hours.
Other Functions: Includes fogging, strobe, and focus features, adaptable for different event lighting needs.
Conclusion
Beam lights and moving head lights both have unique strengths and applications. Understanding the differences and knowing when to use each type of stage lights allows lighting designers to optimize performances and deliver unforgettable visual experiences. By combining both moving lights and beam lights in various venues, from theaters to large arenas, designers can create dynamic and impactful lighting designs that enhance the atmosphere and captivate the audience.
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