The Platinum SBX uses an MSD Platinum 17RA lamp co-developed by Philips and Elation. Building on the success of the Platinum 5R lamp, which Elation has used previously in both spot and beam fixtures, the company has sought to keep the same arc gap to maintain the same quality and crisp sharp optics while generating more power.
Advances in optical design have resulted in higher performing, more versatile optical systems that offer several advantages over traditional systems. "We knew there would only be one way to get the optimum performance out of a Beam / Spot combination fixture so we developed a unique patent-pending dual optical system," states Elation Sales Director Eric Loader.
"The beam mode and spot mode perform under their own independent optical systems. With these dedicated optics we are able to achieve a narrower beam angle and brighter central point when in Beam mode and a uniform, clearer and brighter spot field under Spot mode. Other fixtures on the market today don't offer this type of system therefore you compromise the output / effect in either Beam or Spot mode depending on their optical design."
The Platinum SBX's intelligent dual optical system mechanically switches between beam and spot modes quickly and accurately. It also includes a frost system design which can realize a wash effect under spot or beam mode making it a truly versatile hybrid fixture.
"Elation has for a while been a big proponent of offering what we call "hybrid" fixtures - no we don't mean electric / gas powered - we mean fixtures that can do multiple things. Our customers also appreciate units that are not just one trick ponies. Well, the SBX can do multiple things very well without compromise and we look forward to seeing how designers find ways to use them," says Eric.
(Jim Evans)
