High-output LED light fixture offering daylight color temperature with professional dimming and control capabilities.
Technical Details
The spotlight uses a single COB LED with 120 watts of light output and a total power consumption of 180 watts. The active cooling system with two fans maintains a constant operating temperature, with a silent mode reducing fan noise for audio recording. Control is managed via an external power supply with a controller box that supports DMX512 connection, 2.4 GHz wireless remote control, and app control via Bluetooth. The spotlight uses a Bowens mount for light modifiers and can be powered by V-mount or Gold-mount batteries. Dimming is stepless from 0-100% without color temperature shift.
History & Development
Aputure launched the LS C120d II in 2018 as the successor to the first C120d. The second generation improved light output by 25% while simultaneously reducing weight and power consumption. The Chinese company established itself in the professional film sector starting in 2014, developing the Light Storm series as a cost-effective alternative to established manufacturers like ARRI or Dedolight. In 2020, the C120d II was followed by the Mark 2 controller, which enables expanded control options and firmware updates via USB-C.
Practical Use in Film
The C120d II serves as a replacement for 575W HMI spotlights with significantly lower power consumption and no warm-up time. DoPs use it for fill light on exterior shoots or as a key light in smaller interior spaces. With softboxes, it is suitable for interviews and talking heads, while the open reflector creates hard shadows for dramatic looks. Its silent operation makes it ideal for shoots in sound-sensitive environments. Battery operation allows for mobile use without a power supply.
Comparison & Alternatives
Competing products include the ARRI L7-C (significantly more expensive, but with full-color LEDs), the Godox SL-150W II (more affordable, but lower light quality), or the Forza 150 from Nanlite (comparable performance). The C120d II is positioned in the mid-price segment between consumer and high-end products. For higher light output, Aputure offers the 300d II and 600d Pro. If variable color temperature is needed, the bi-color version C120t is the better choice.