Professional tungsten light fixture providing 5 kilowatts of warm illumination for general production needs.
Technical Details
The T5 weighs 18.5 kilograms and measures 535 × 470 × 700 mm. The 8-inch Fresnel lens made of borosilicate-hardened glass features multi-layer anti-reflection coating and achieves an efficiency of 85%. The housing made of black anodized aluminum can withstand operating temperatures up to 350°C. The integrated ballast operates with electronic dimming from 100% to 5% without color temperature shift. The lamp reaches its full light output within 3 seconds after switching on. Arri offers variants for 120V, 230V, and 240V mains voltage, as well as a studio version with DMX-512 control.
History & Development
Arri introduced the T5 in 1987 as part of the revised T-series, which replaced the older studio spotlights from the 1970s. The development aimed for a more compact design while simultaneously improving light output. In 1992, electronic ballasts were integrated, enabling precise dimming without mechanical shutters. From 1998 onwards, Arri expanded the system with True Blue daylight variants at 5,600 Kelvin. In 2003, the T5-D version with digital DMX control was launched.
Practical Use in Film
Cinematography teams use the T5 as a key light for interior shots or as a powerful fill light. Ridley Scott used several T5 units for the prison scenes in "Gladiator" (2000) to project dramatic light streaks through bars. The compact design allows for use in confined studio spaces, while the high light output illuminates large areas. The stepless focus allows for precise light control, from hard shadows to soft transitions. Disadvantages include high power consumption and heat generation, which requires air conditioning for extended shoots.
Comparison & Alternatives
The T5 competes directly with the Mole-Richardson Senior 5K and the DeSisti Leonardo 5000W. Compared to the LED alternative Arri SkyPanel S120, the T5 consumes three times more power for similar light output but offers a more natural spectrum for skin tones. Modern HMI spotlights like the Arri M18 achieve similar light output with 1,800 watts but have different spectral characteristics. For pure efficiency, productions today choose LED arrays; for classic film aesthetics, tungsten light like the T5 remains the first choice.