ARRIMAX

Technical Details

The ARRIMAX series includes models from 2.5 kW to 18 kW power, with the flagship ARRIMAX 18/12 achieving a luminous intensity of 750,000 cd in spot setting with an 18,000-watt burner. The unit weighs 41 kg without the burner and operates with electronic ballasts (EVG) that ensure flicker-free operation at all frame rates. The Fresnel spotlight features continuous focusing from a 15° to 50° beam angle. The cooling system uses a quiet fan and allows for continuous operation even at ambient temperatures up to 40°C.

History & Development

ARRI introduced the ARRIMAX series in 1995 in response to the increased demands of film production for exterior shots. The development occurred in parallel with the establishment of HMI technology as the standard for daylight illumination. In 2001, electronic ballasts were introduced, replacing the heavy magnetic chokes. The current generation from 2018 integrates ARRI's SkyPanel technology for precise color control.

Practical Use in Film

Christopher Nolan used ARRIMAX 18/12 units for the cockpit sequences in "Dunkirk" (2017) to simulate natural sunlight. For "Mad Max: Fury Road" (2015), over 20 ARRIMAX spotlights were used to evenly illuminate the desert scenes. The spotlight allows for fill light on exterior shots without distorting the natural lighting mood. It is typically used on 40-foot lifts for large-area illumination of action scenes or as backlight for sunset shots.

Comparison & Alternatives

Compared to LED panels like the ARRI SkyPanel S360, ARRIMAX offers higher point light intensity, while LEDs provide more flexible color control. Competing products such as the K5600 Joker-Bug 1600W achieve similar efficiency with lower maximum output. Modern LED arrays from Aputure or Astera are increasingly displacing HMI technology due to lower power consumption and heat generation. However, ARRIMAX remains the standard for large productions requiring extreme light output for expansive exterior sets.