Aputure LS 600d Released – Same Output of the Pro With More Compact Control Box

Lighting News

by Francesco AndreolaApril 14^th, 2022

Aputure has just unveiled the latest addition to their Light Storm Series: the Aputure LS 600d. Built on the legacy of the LS 600d Pro, this new model features the same powerful output but lacks some of the most advanced connectivity features as well as a weather-proof body. The LS 600d is now available for pre-order at the official retail price of $1,390.

Back in September 2021, Aputure released their brightest fixture to date, the beefy LS 1200d Pro. Up to that point, the supremacy was held by the LS 600d Pro. In case you missed it, you can watch and read the respective hands-on reviews produced by my colleague Graham.

The 600 family, which also includes the bi-color LS 600x Pro, is now growing with the recent addition of the Aputure LS 600d (non-Pro version). This new model inherits many specs from its “Pro” predecessor, such as its bright output and low power consumption (720W). However, it comes with a more streamlined (aka “restricted”) set of features. Let’s take a closer look.

Aputure LS 600d: same output as Pro version

The new Aputure LS 600d shares the same 600W COB LED design as the LS 600d Pro, thus resulting in a very powerful light that is here to compete with 1200W HMI sources. Unlike the bi-color 600x Pro, the new 600d is a daylight-balanced fixture (5600K±200K). It features a native beam angle of 105°, that can easily be changed via a wide range of Bowens-mount modifiers in order to achieve either hard or soft light qualities.

According to the manufacturer, the LS 600d can output 29,300+ lux at a distance of 3m when using their F10 Fresnel and 8,500+ lux at the same distance with the Hyper-Reflector – exactly the same as the LS 600d Pro.

This high level of brightness is completely adjustable from 0 up to 100% of the intensity using 4 different dimming curves (Linear, Exponential, Log, S-Curve). However, the LS 600d doesn’t offer the same precise 0.1% increments as the professional version. In fact, it’s only limited to 1% steps.

The new LS 600d should provide the same color accuracy as the LS 600d Pro, having identical CRI 96, TLCI 96, and SSI (D56) 72 ratings. Moreover, it still features the same 8 built-in lighting effects that many cinematographers are already used to (Paparazzi, Fireworks, Lightning, Faulty Bulb, TV, Pulsing, Strobe, and Explosion).

Aputure LS 600d Pro: what’s the difference?

The biggest difference between the LS 600d and the Pro version resides in the lack of an advanced set of professional features, such as LumenRadio CRMX, Art-net compatibility, extreme weather resistance, and battery charging functionality.

Another major dissimilarity is the size of the control box. Indeed, the LS 600d features a more streamlined control unit (3.24kg/7.14lbs) that is approximately 45% lighter compared to that of the LS 600d Pro. Along with the price point, this is the only advantage over the Pro version.

Power and control

Although this newly-released model lacks a few connectivity features, it still provides plenty of flexibility for controlling the light. In fact, all settings can be easily adjusted via a 2.4GHz remote, Sidus Link app, 5-pin DMX512, or onboard buttons on the control box.

The latter features an OLED screen as well as a dual V-Mount/Gold mount plate system. Indeed, the LS 600d can draw power from two V-Mount or Gold mount power bricks with multiple supported voltage options (14.4V/15A, 26V/8.5A, 28.8V/7.5A). In this case, the maximum output is halved. Hence, full power can only be achieved using the 48V 3-pin XLR DC power input.

The control box comes with a dedicated quick-release clamp to easily attach it to C-stands or other grip hardware. Moreover, rigging operations are facilitated by the long 5-Pin Weatherproof Head Cable (3m) and Neutrik powerCON TRUE1 TOP AC Power Cable (6m).

Design and mounting options

The lamp head features a magnesium alloy design. Unlike the dust and light-rain-resistant LS 600d Pro, the latest model is not weather-proof. The light head weighs 4.69kg/10.34lbs (including the yoke) and measures 30.8×25.03×45.6cm / 12.13×9.85×17.95” in size.

Its curved yoke has a handbrake-locking mechanism and allows 360° rotation of the light head. The LS 600d is compatible with both Baby and Junior Pin mounting systems to easily attach it to any rig.

Price and availability

Given the lack of some of the most advanced features, the new Aputure LS 600d is obviously more affordable than the Pro version. Indeed, it’s now available for pre-order on B&H at the official retail price of $1,390. For reference, the LS 600d Pro currently retails for $1,890.

The light head comes with the included Hyper Reflector, dedicated control box, head cable, AC power cable, and lighting clamp. All these parts fit in a solid Aputure-branded rolling case (included). An optional 7.5-meter head cable is also available to purchase separately to further expand rigging possibilities.

Do you normally use Aputure LS Series products to replace HMI fixtures? What do you think about the new Aputure LS 600d non-Pro version? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section down below!