White LED spot or Non-LED Spot

[bridger]

We are about to install a set of par64 LED lights with a DMX controller. We wanted a very basic set up for use with praise band, youth events and to add color to scenes for Christmas/Easter programs, childrens programs. I believe we have that, but we want to have the availability to spotlight certain areas if needed (soloist, organist) In looking at LED or DMX capabilities to control them, I haven't found very many options in the way of a white DMX controlled spot. I don't think we need a movable or follow spot which seemed quite expensive.

Would anyone recommend a brand of LED spot or a non-LED dmx controlled spot. It wouldn't need to be very powerful. The ceilings are about 20 -25 feet high. Any other options? Would you recommend using a different controller for the spots?

[waynehoskins]

What kind of white do you want? If arc white is fine, then something along the lines of a Trackspot or a Spot 250 sounds like it would do. You probably want a separate controller for that, one that's suited to that sort of thing, because most likely the one you've got isn't. (What do you have now?)

[theatre4jc]

I'd stay away from the LED spot idea. I've never seen an LED follow spot but have seen LED moving heads. IMO for about the same money you can get a good low quality moving head light to do the same job, but have a better white light and if buying a spot fixture can add gobo patterns. My thoughts on LEDs at this point they are just eye candy and not really good for spot lighting. Maybe in the future but we won't be there for a few more years.

[james tucker]

If you need a follow spot - I recommend an Altman Comet follow spot. They cost around $1000

If you need a smaller moving light to do basic specials and throw some patterns on your back wall - I highly suggest going to ebay and picking up some High End Trackspots....No they are not LED - they use a halogen lamp that costs less than $5 to replace and they are pretty bright for small/medium stuff. For control - get one of those American DJ DMX operator for like $150 to do basic scene memory stuff....

I have 12 LED fixtures and 4 trackspots and they work well together for effect lighting. If you need copious amounts of white light for a wash you will need to look into purchasing some dimmers and pars/lekos, etc...