There are so many different types of laser light show projectors, and laser manufacturers on the market today. Trying to determine which brand, model, or type of laser projector you need can be quite stressful, as the components of your laser can directly impact the quality of shows you’re able to create.
In this Laser Light Show Projector Purchasing Guide, we’ll provide you with a ton of insight about laser projector specifications to help you understand what to look for when buying or comparing laser show projectors.
Laser Powers & How to Interpret Them
Laser show systems come in a wide variety of power levels, and the overall power output from a laser projector can be one of the most important factors to consider when choosing the right laser system for your desired application.
It is important to note that the overall “Wattage”, isn’t the only determining factor for a laser’s apparent brightness.
Laser powers are generally specified in terms of “Watts (W)” or “milli-watts (mw)”.
For example, 1W= 1,000mw.
Laser specifications can be deceiving depending on how they’re written, so you’ll need to be careful and make sure that when you’re looking at the rated power it has labeled, that you’re getting the actual output power that you need and are paying for.
When looking at different laser projection systems, manufactures typically will not give you the output power of the laser at the output window. This is the measurement of power you will receive once you’re outputting from your laser, not the power on the inside of the laser. This is something that is extremely important to know if you’re ever planning on doing an audience scanning laser show.
The reason that manufactures typically label their laser projectors like this is for a cheesy “marketing and sales” tactic to make their laser projectors look more powerful than they are. As their products are likely cheaply made and wouldn’t produce those powers advertised otherwise.
Here are some terms to be weary of when comparing different laser projectors and brands.
Minimum / Maximum output power
In this case, the maximum laser power is what is produced inside of the laser - It is NOT what you will get at the output window. As every time a laser hits an optic/mirror, it has a small loss of power.
Apparent brightness
This is a generalized term, and it does not mean your laser actually has the power labeled. You might see certain suppliers say their laser has an “apparent brightness of 1W”.
This doesn’t mean the laser actually has 1W. So you need to make sure that if your supplier uses the apparent brightness technique for specifying the laser’s power, that you ask them for the real output power of the laser projector, at the output window.
All laser light show projectors sold by Pangolin have their specification for power listed at the output window. So you will get the exact laser power specified, and many times even more!
Choosing The Right Laser Power
Deciding on the amount of power you need in a laser can also be confusing at times, as there so many sizes of wattage listed.
We’ve created a basic guide of what power is right for a give application noted below.
Low Power Lasers (500mw - 3W)
Well suited for indoor shows, such as small to medium size clubs, home use, and most small events.
Medium Power Lasers (3W - 12W)
Well suited for medium to large scale indoor venues, as well as outdoor shows (for 6W+). These are also well suited for aerial & beam projections outdoors, typically at night.
High Power Lasers (15W - 40W+)
Well suited for large scale indoor venues such as stadium size shows, as well as large outdoor shows such as festivals, stadiums, long distance aerial projection, large outdoor graphics projections, etc.
Laser Colors
Most laser projectors have one to three laser modules (red, green, and blue) inside. Though the international standard provides for up to 6 color channels to control up to 6 different color laser modules.
A laser module’s color is determined by its wavelength, and the laser diodes inside. Which are measured in nanometers (Nm). All 6 international standard colors are noted below.
That being said, the vast majority of laser light show projectors on the market use three color sources to create what we call “RGB” laser projectors. With RGB based laser projectors, you can create nearly any color in the spectrum.
When working with RGB laser projectors, it is very important to have a system with an even balance of red, green and blue laser sources inside, as this is a crucial element that allows you to create a wider variety of colors from the laser projector.
A good ratio of red, green, and blue is about 20-30% red, 30-40% green, and around 40-50% blue. Green is the most visible color for lasers. Blue is also the cheapest laser source.
So it is common for some budget manufacturers to advertise high power lasers, but use a lot of blue. This is generally not good, because even though you have more power, you have unbalanced colors.
And in reality, an evenly balanced laser with good color combination will appear brighter to the human eye, than even a higher power system with an uneven balance of red, green, and blue. So when comparing brightness, it is not just about “power”, color balance, quality optics, and internal components, are all as equally important.
Laser Analog and TTL Modulation
There are two types of modulation when it comes to lasers. These include “analog” and “TTL” based systems. Without getting too technical, if you use an analog laser projector with good linear modulation, you can create millions of different color combinations and evenly fade in and fade out between those colors when creating different laser effects.
If you have a TTL based laser, you are limited to only seven colors in total, and you cannot fade in and fade out across different colors. Budget level lasers or those which are lower in price are usually TTL based. While more professional lasers tend to be analog modulated.
Modulation and Blanking
This is an externally caused by a change in laser power, which turns the laser on and off and also allows for the fading of colors.
Blanking, or disabling laser output in a specified area when projecting an image is commonly used when drawing laser animations to separate image components, so they are not connected by a low power line.
For example, if the word “TEXT” is projected, a properly blanked laser with analog response and a good linear balance would turn off (0% power) between each letter of the word, allowing you to clearly see each letter in the projected image.
Whereas in less professional laser systems, you will see a line or tail going through part of word, as illustrated in the “TEXT” example below.
This is good (analog modulation, linear balance).
This is bad (poor modulation, blanking lines visible).
Understanding Optical Scanning Specifications
Most laser projector manufacturers use the term “KPPS” or Kilo Points Per Second, when defining optical scanning speeds. So if you see specifications like “20K, 30K, 40K, 60K, etc., when looking at the speed of your laser, this is the speed in which your laser's scanner can produce.
Another factor that is just as important as the speed of the optical scanning system is the angle which it is specified at. The optimal scan angle for most laser projectors is 8°.
This standard was set by the International Laser Display Association, who oversees most laser specifications that are set on the market currently. We use 8°, as this is generally the smallest scan angle you would need to use in a real world scenario.
For example, you might see 30K @ 8° or 40K @ 8°.
But again, make sure you are closely watching the angle at which the speed is defined, because that is just as important as the KPPS speed being defined. If you see a scan speed specified at less than 8°, or if you do not see any angle specified, be cautious.
Some people will say “30K @ 4°”... Again in this specific case, you want to be careful. Because 4° is not the correct angle to measure a scan speed at. The ILDA test pattern which is used to measure scan speeds was designed to be measured them at 8°.
Therefore when measured properly, a specification such as "30K at 4° does not actually have a "30K" scan speed. With that kind of specification, you cannot expect to have a true "30K" projector, as denoted by the international standard.
Another important thing to consider when looking at optical scanning systems on your laser show projector, is the optical degrees it can project at, on an X and Y axis.
For example, some people will say +/- 60° optical on the X and Y axis. You want to take note of this, because the angle you can project at directly effects how large of a projection area you can cover with a single laser. Better lasers on the market will start at +/- 60° optical on the X and Y axis.
Here is an overview of optical scanning specifications, and how they related to the effects you can create.
Hey there, fellow stage enthusiast!
Ever been to a live concert or theater performance and found yourself absolutely captivated by the play of lights? Those magical beams cutting through the darkness, creating patterns, telling stories, and adding a dash of dazzle to the stage? Well, a lot of that magic comes from laser lights.
Laser lights have revolutionized the way we experience live performances. They’re not just about bright beams and fancy patterns. They’re about setting the mood, enhancing the narrative, and making those moments on stage truly unforgettable. Whether it’s a major music festival or an intimate theater production, laser lights play a pivotal role in creating those ‘wow’ moments for the audience.
In the coming sections, we’ll dive deep into the world of stage laser lights, exploring their history, various types, and how they’ve transformed the realm of stage performances. So, if you’re curious to know more or planning to introduce them to your own stage setup, you’re in for an enlightening ride! Let’s get started.
Ah, history! It’s always fascinating to see where things began and how they’ve evolved, right? The tale of stage laser lights is no different.
The story of laser lights on stage began in the 1960s, shortly after the invention of the laser itself. Here’s a brief walk down memory lane:
1960s: The birth of the laser. It wasn’t initially designed for the stage, but innovators soon saw its potential. Early stage lasers were bulky, expensive, and somewhat limited in their capabilities. But they were new, exciting, and added a unique touch to performances.
1970s: Lasers began making appearances in rock concerts. With advancements in technology, they became more vibrant and versatile. Remember those iconic rock shows with psychedelic laser patterns? Yep, that’s the ’70s for you.
1980s: Enter computer-controlled laser systems. These allowed for more intricate patterns and synchronization with music. The laser shows became more dynamic and precise.
1990s and 2000s: With the boom of electronic music and rave culture, lasers became a staple in nightclubs and music festivals. They were brighter, available in multiple colors, and could be used in innovative ways to enhance the overall show experience.
2010s to Present: Today, laser lights are more advanced than ever. They’re used in various stage performances, from theater to music festivals. They’re more energy-efficient, safer, and can create breathtaking visuals that were once deemed impossible.
The journey of stage laser lights mirrors the evolution of stage performances themselves. From humble beginnings to being an indispensable part of grand shows, these lights have truly come a long way. And as technology continues to advance, who knows what the future holds for them? But one thing’s for sure: they’ll continue to dazzle us for years to come.
Stage lighting can seem a bit like magic to the uninitiated. One moment you’re immersed in a soft, ambient glow, and the next, you’re surrounded by dazzling patterns that seem to dance with the music. At the heart of these lighting wonders? Laser lights. Let’s explore the different types of stage laser lights that help create these enchanting effects.
When you think of lasers, a straight, focused beam of light probably comes to mind. That’s the essence of beam lasers.
Characteristics: These lasers produce an intense, narrow beam of light, making them highly visible, especially when combined with fog or haze.
Primary Uses:
The concentrated light of beam lasers ensures they remain a favorite for creating high-energy moments on stage.
Think of scanning lasers as artists that draw patterns with light.
Features:
Ideal Scenarios:
Scanning lasers bring dynamic movement to the mix, painting the air with light and color.
Want to see a story told through lasers? Animation lasers are your storytellers.
How They Differ: Unlike other lasers that might produce static patterns or simple shapes, animation lasers can depict more intricate scenes or characters.
Visuals They Can Create:
With animation lasers, the sky’s the limit. They elevate stage performances, turning them into mesmerizing visual narratives. Whether it’s a dancing dragon or a floating castle, these lasers weave tales in light.
Stage performances often rely on lighting to set the mood, emphasize pivotal moments, and create an immersive experience for the audience. Within the realm of stage lighting, laser light effects are the crown jewels, each offering its unique spectacle. Let’s delve into some of these captivating effects and explore how they enrich our visual experiences.
Ever felt like you’re underwater, even when you’re not? That’s the magic of the Liquid Sky effect.
Description: A sheet of laser beams is spread across a space, often combined with fog or haze. The result resembles the undulating waves of a calm sea or the Northern Lights’ ethereal dance.
When It’s Used:
This effect is a favorite for its ability to transport audiences to a dreamy, otherworldly realm.
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you’re traveling through space at warp speed, the Tunnel Effect is your ticket.
Description: Circular or spiral patterns of laser lights create a visual tunnel. When paired with fog, the effect intensifies, making the tunnel appear almost solid.
Allure and Application:
The Tunnel Effect is a crowd-pleaser, adding depth and dynamism to a space.
Imagine being at the center of a radiant, inverted tornado. That’s the Cone Effect for you.
Visual Appeal: Multiple laser beams originate from a single point, expanding outwards in a cone shape. It’s like being inside a radiant vortex of light.
Ideal Usage Scenarios:
With its all-encompassing glow, the Cone Effect is perfect for moments that deserve all eyes on the center stage.
Stage laser lights, when used effectively, can transform a performance, creating visuals that linger in an audience’s memory long after the curtain drops. But to achieve this, setting up and operating these lights correctly is crucial. Here’s a comprehensive guide on doing just that.
Every great performance begins behind the scenes. Setting up your laser light system correctly is the first step towards a mesmerizing show.
Choose the Right Location: Find a spot that allows the lasers to cover the desired area without obstructions.
Mounting the Lasers: Secure the laser units to trussing or suitable mounts. Ensure they’re stable and positioned at an angle that complements the show’s theme.
Connect Power and Data Cables: Make sure all cables are securely connected, free from wear and tear, and not posing a tripping hazard.
Test the Equipment: Before diving into calibration, do a quick run to ensure all lights are operational.
Once you’re set up, calibration ensures your lights are not just working, but working together.
Determine the Show’s Flow: Understand the sequence of events, music beats, and critical moments that need synchronization.
Adjust Beam Intensity and Color: Depending on the ambiance, adjust the brightness and color of each laser.
Synchronize with Audio: If your lasers are set to respond to music, ensure they’re accurately synced with the beats and rhythm.
Use Software Tools: Many modern laser systems come with software that aids in precise calibration and synchronization. Familiarize yourself with these tools for optimal results.
Now that you’re set up and calibrated, let’s ensure the actual show goes off without a hitch.
Stay Alert: Live shows can be unpredictable. Be prepared for on-the-spot adjustments.
Manage Transitions: Smoothly transition between different effects, ensuring no abrupt changes unless intended.
Backup Plans: Always have a contingency in case of technical glitches. Know your equipment’s common issues and how to quickly resolve them.
Safety First: Never point lasers directly at the audience. Regularly check that safety protocols are in place.
With these steps and techniques, you’re all set to operate your laser light system like a pro, ensuring every show is a visual delight!
Creating an effective laser show is an art. It’s not just about flashing lights; it’s about crafting a memorable experience. Let’s explore some expert tips to make your laser show the talk of the town.
An audio-visual treat is what sets a great laser show apart from a good one.
Analyze the Beat: Before starting, understand the rhythm, beats, and drops of your music. This helps in syncing the lasers perfectly.
Complementary Colors: Different music genres and moods have corresponding colors. For instance, a soft melody might be paired with cool blues, while an upbeat track might call for vibrant reds.
Harmonic Transitions: Ensure that the transition of laser effects matches the transition in music. Soft fades in music should have gentler laser transitions.
Lasers can narrate a tale as effectively as words, if not more.
Plot a Narrative: Begin with an idea or a story. It could be as simple as a sunrise to sunset cycle or as complex as a space battle.
Character Development: If your narrative has characters, represent them with specific colors or patterns. Consistency is key.
Emphasize Key Moments: Important moments in your story should have standout visuals. Make them memorable with distinct laser patterns or brighter intensities.
A well-paced show keeps the audience engaged from start to finish.
Avoid Monotony: Just like any performance, a laser show should have its highs and lows. Mix up fast-paced sections with slower moments.
Responsive Lasers: Ensure your lasers respond promptly to cues. A delayed response can break the show’s flow.
Practice Makes Perfect: Run through the entire show multiple times. This helps in identifying any pacing issues and fine-tuning the timing.
Remember, the goal of a laser show isn’t just to entertain, but to captivate. With the right music, a compelling narrative, and impeccable timing, your laser show is bound to leave a lasting impression.
Even the most advanced stage laser light systems can face hiccups. But with some knowledge, you can address most issues promptly and keep the show running smoothly.
When your laser lights act up, don’t panic. Let’s look at some usual suspects and their solutions.
Flickering Lasers: This can be due to a loose connection or a failing power supply. Ensure all cables are firmly connected, and consider replacing the power unit if the problem persists.
Uneven Intensity: Dust or dirt on the lens can affect the brightness. Clean the lens gently with a soft cloth. If the issue remains, it might be a sign of a dying diode.
Incorrect Color Output: This can be due to calibration errors. Re-calibrate the lasers according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Delayed Response: It’s often a software issue. Ensure the software is up to date, and check for any lag in the control device.
A stitch in time saves nine, and regular maintenance can prevent many issues from arising.
Routine Cleaning: Dirt and dust can affect the laser’s performance. Use a soft cloth or an air blower to clean the lens and the outer casing.
Firmware Updates: Manufacturers often release updates to fix bugs and improve performance. Ensure your system’s firmware is always up-to-date.
Ventilation Check: Lasers can get hot. Ensure the cooling system is effective and the ventilation isn’t blocked.
Regular Diagnostics: Run diagnostic tests as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. This can help in identifying potential issues before they become major problems.
By staying proactive and understanding common issues, you can ensure that your stage laser light system delivers a flawless performance every time. Regular maintenance and quick troubleshooting are the keys to a long-lasting and efficient laser show setup.
Choosing the perfect stage laser light can be the difference between a good show and an unforgettable one. But with a sea of options out there, how do you make the right choice? It boils down to understanding your needs and knowing what to look for.
Before jumping into the nitty-gritty of laser specs and features, it’s crucial to get a clear picture of what you need.
Venue Size: A smaller venue might not require an ultra-powerful laser, while a large outdoor event will need something more robust.
Event Type: An intimate acoustic concert will have different laser needs compared to a rave or a theatrical performance.
Audience: If you’re performing for a niche crowd, such as a laser aficionado meetup, they might appreciate (and expect) more intricate laser setups.
Budget: Let’s face it, while we’d all love the top-of-the-line equipment, sometimes we have to work within financial constraints.
Once you’ve outlined your needs, here are some factors to consider:
Laser Power: Measured in milliwatts (mW), this determines the brightness of the laser. A more potent laser is visible even with other lights on stage, but it’s also more expensive.
Color Capabilities: Do you want a single-color laser or a full RGB (Red, Green, Blue) system that can produce a range of colors?
Control Options: Some lasers can be controlled manually, while others can sync with software or DMX controllers.
Safety Features: Look for lasers with safety measures, like key switches or emergency stop functions.
Customizability: If you like to experiment, consider lasers that allow for effects customization.
Reliability & Brand Reputation: Sometimes it’s worth paying a bit more for a reputable brand known for its durability and customer support.
Making the right choice involves a balance between understanding your requirements and knowing the capabilities of the available options. By aligning the two, you’ll find the perfect laser light that will dazzle your audience and make every performance a memorable one.
Stage laser lights aren’t just about creating pretty effects; they play a fundamental role in enhancing the overall ambiance and feel of a performance. When used correctly, they can truly elevate a show, creating moments that linger in the audience’s memory long after the curtain falls.
The strategic use of laser lights can amplify the stage presence of a performer or act. Here’s how:
Highlight Key Moments: Use laser lights to punctuate significant moments in a performance, like the climax of a song or a dramatic scene in a play.
Create Atmosphere: Different laser effects can evoke different emotions – a slow-moving liquid sky might create a dreamy ambiance, while rapid, sharp beams can produce excitement.
Draw Attention: Lasers can be used to guide the audience’s eyes to a specific part of the stage, ensuring they don’t miss out on any action.
Amplify Movements: In dance performances, lasers can be synchronized with the dancer’s movements, making every leap and twirl even more mesmerizing.
While lasers are undoubtedly spectacular, they shine the brightest (pun intended!) when combined harmoniously with other types of stage lights. Here’s how you can create a balanced lighting ensemble:
Complementary Colors: When using colored stage lights, choose laser colors that either complement or contrast them, depending on the desired effect.
Vary Intensity: Not every moment requires the brightest beams. Sometimes, dimmer laser effects can provide a subtle backdrop for other lights.
Sync Movements: If you’re using moving head lights or other dynamic lights, synchronize the movements with your lasers to create coordinated light dances.
Layering Effects: Use gobos or spotlights for focused illumination and add lasers for more expansive and ambient effects.
When skillfully integrated with other stage lights, lasers can enhance the depth, dimension, and dynamism of a performance, creating a visual treat that leaves audiences spellbound.
Stage laser lights are a popular topic, and there’s a lot to learn about them. Here are some frequently asked questions that can provide a clearer understanding.
Laser stage lighting operates on the principle of coherent light generation. In simple terms:
A laser light source emits a beam of light that is both monochromatic (single color) and coherent (waves in phase).
This light passes through a medium, often a gas or crystal, that amplifies the light.
Mirrors at the ends of the medium reflect the light back and forth, further amplifying it.
A partially transparent mirror at one end allows some of the highly amplified light to pass through, producing the laser beam.
In stage settings, this laser beam is then manipulated using mirrors and diffraction gratings to create various patterns, effects, and animations that we see during performances.
LED (Light Emitting Diode) stage lights have taken the entertainment industry by storm, and for good reasons:
Energy Efficiency: LEDs consume significantly less power compared to traditional bulbs, which translates to cost savings.
Long Lifespan: LEDs have a longer operational life, often running for thousands of hours without needing replacement.
Less Heat Production: Unlike halogen or incandescent lights, LEDs produce minimal heat, reducing the risk of burns or fires.
Variety of Colors: LED stage lights can produce a wide range of colors without the need for gels or filters.
Flexibility: Dimmable features in LEDs allow for smooth transitions and better control over lighting effects.
Stage lighting is essential for several reasons:
Visibility: At the most basic level, stage lighting ensures that performers are visible to the audience.
Mood Creation: Different lighting can evoke various emotions, setting the tone for scenes or songs.
Focus: Lighting can direct the audience’s attention to specific parts of the stage or highlight particular performers.
Enhancement: Proper lighting can elevate a performance, turning it from ordinary to extraordinary.
Storytelling: Lighting can be used narratively, helping to tell a story or convey a theme during a performance.
Remember, while the performers are the heart of a show, stage lighting is the soul that breathes life into a performance, creating an immersive experience for the audience.
The evolution of stage lighting, especially with the introduction and advancement of laser lights, has brought about a revolution in the world of stage performances. From intimate theater settings to grand concert arenas, laser lights have carved a niche for themselves, offering an unmatched visual experience. Their allure lies not just in their brilliant displays but also in their ability to amplify emotions, set moods, and craft unforgettable moments.
However, as with any powerful tool, it’s imperative to use laser lights responsibly. Safety precautions must always be a priority. When used judiciously, these lights can transform the mundane into the magical, turning every stage into a canvas of light and color.
For those stepping into the captivating world of laser lighting or even seasoned professionals, it’s always a journey of discovery. There’s a universe of possibilities out there. Harness the potential of laser lights, but always remember to do so safely, innovatively, and, most importantly, creatively. Here’s to brighter stages and even brighter performances!
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