ARRI LED panel with 30x30cm emitting surface and 400W draw. Full-spectrum LED with stepless Color Temperature range from 2800K to 10000K.
Technical Details
The S120 weighs 16.5 kg with dimensions of 134 x 134 x 14.5 cm and consumes a maximum of 1120 watts, delivering a photometric output of 8500 lux at 3 meters. The fixture features 576 individual RGBW LEDs arranged in a 24 x 24 zone matrix. Each zone can be controlled independently, enabling complex lighting effects and precise pixel mapping applications. The integrated cooling system operates fanlessly for completely silent operation. Control is via DMX, RDM, Ethernet, or the ARRI LiDB app via Bluetooth.
History & Development
ARRI introduced the SkyPanel series at NAB in Las Vegas in 2014, with the S120 being launched as the largest model of the first generation. Development began in 2012 in response to the growing demand for energy-efficient, variable color temperature light sources in film production. The Mk2 generation followed in 2019 with improved color rendering and expanded control options. In 2021, the C version (Color) was added, offering enhanced RGB functionalities for effect lighting.
Practical Use in Film
The S120 quickly established itself as the standard for soft light applications in high-end productions. Roger Deakins used several S120s for diffuse daylight simulation in "Blade Runner 2049" (2017), while Hoyte van Hoytema employed them for interior lighting in "Dunkirk" (2017). Typical workflow: mounting on combo stands or overhead rigs, fitting with diffusion filters or softboxes depending on the desired light characteristic. Disadvantages: high acquisition cost, large space requirement on set, complex rigging requirements for overhead mounting.
Comparison & Alternatives
The S120 competes with the DMG Lumière Switch 4 (120 x 60 cm) and the Creamsource Vortex8 (120 x 60 cm), but offers a larger light aperture. ARRI's newer Orbiter series partially replaces the S120 with higher light output in a more compact design. For smaller productions, the S60 or S30 models serve as more cost-effective alternatives. The S120 remains the first choice for applications requiring large-area, diffuse light without multiple setups.