High-output HMI lighting fixture providing 25 kilowatts of daylight color temperature for extensive fill and key lighting.
Technical Details
The D25 operates with an electronic ballast that enables flicker-free light output at 25,000 Hz. The fixture weighs 18.5 kilograms and features a Fresnel reflector with a diameter of 200 millimeters. The spot-flood adjustment ranges from a 15° to 50° beam angle. The system consists of the lamp head and a separate ballast, connected by a 7.5-meter cable. The average lamp life is 750 hours, with a light output of 240,000 lumens.
History & Development
Arri introduced the D25 in 1995 as part of the second generation of their HMI fixtures. It replaced the predecessor model D20 and offered improved electronics as well as higher light output. The development responded to the film industry's increasing demands for powerful yet portable daylight sources. In 2008, the D25 received an update with an improved ballast and optimized heat dissipation. The modern D25 Max version from 2018 integrates DMX control and remote functions.
Practical Use in Film
The D25 established itself as a standard for exterior shots and large interiors. In "The Revenant" (2015), the cinematographers used D25 units to enhance natural light in dark forest scenes. The fixture is particularly suitable for lighting dialogue scenes in daylight, where it serves as a key light or for filling in shadow areas. The separate ballast allows for flexible positioning, even in tight spaces. Typical workflows include use with diffusion frames like 4x4 meter butterflies or bouncing off white surfaces for softer light.
Comparison & Alternatives
Compared to tungsten fixtures of equal brightness, the D25 consumes 60% less power and generates significantly less heat. Compared to the smaller D12, it offers double the light output at only 50% higher weight. Modern LED alternatives like the Arri SkyPanel S120-C achieve similar light levels with variable color temperature but are three times more expensive to purchase. For mobile productions with low power requirements, HMI systems like the D25 remain the first choice due to their superior light output.