Sourcemaker Hybrid LED

Technical Details

The Hybrid LEDs use a matrix of 3200K and 5600K LED chips with CRI values over 95 and TLCI values over 90. Available models: Hybrid 2x1 (200W), Hybrid 4x2 (400W), and Hybrid 4x4 (1000W). Light output of the 4x4 version: 8,500 lux at 1 meter distance with a 60° reflector. Power supply via AC/DC adapter or V-mount batteries, dimming from 0-100% without color shift. Anodized aluminum housing with passive cooling, operating temperature -10°C to +40°C.

History & Development

Sourcemaker was founded by Evan Schechtman in Los Angeles in 2009 as a specialist in LED film lighting. The first Hybrid generation appeared in 2015 in response to the demand for color-variable LED panels for digital cinema cameras. In 2018, the revised Hybrid-II series followed with improved color rendering and higher light output. In 2021, the company expanded the series with RGBW variants offering expanded color capabilities.

Practical Use in Film

Gaffers primarily use Sourcemaker Hybrid panels as broad light for interviews and close-ups, as their even light distribution creates soft shadows. On "The Mandalorian" (2019-2022), modified Sourcemaker LEDs were used as fill light on the Volume set. The bicolor function proves advantageous in mixed lighting situations – for example, when matching existing daylight or artificial light without using diffusion gels. Disadvantages: limited light output compared to HMIs of the same size.

Comparison & Alternatives

Sourcemaker Hybrid competes directly with Litepanels Gemini, Arri SkyPanel S30/S60, and Aputure Nova P300c. While Arri SkyPanel offers RGB color mixing, Sourcemaker is limited to bicolor applications at a lower price point. Creamsource Vortex4 achieves higher light output but requires external ballasts. For pure daylight applications, dedicated 5600K LEDs like the Aputure 600d remain more efficient. The Sourcemaker panels score points for their compact design and direct battery operation in smaller productions.