Arri Fresnel studio light with 150mm lens, 1000W halogen lamp, 3200K color temperature, and infinitely variable focusing via handle grip.
Technical Details
The ST1 features a black die-cast aluminum housing with dimensions of 25 x 28 x 47 cm and an operating weight of 4.2 kg. The four-stage Fresnel lens has a diameter of 150 mm and allows for stepless focusing via a side-mounted handle. The light source achieves a color temperature of 3200 K with a luminous flux of 24,000 lumens in spot mode. The fixture is equipped with a standard 16 mm spigot and four barndoors for light shaping. An integrated switch and a 3-pin Schuko plug complete the electrical features.
History & Development
Arri introduced the ST series in 1963 as part of its first professional studio lighting collection. The ST1 quickly established itself as standard equipment in German film studios and TV productions of the 1960s and 70s. In 1985, the model received an update with improved heat dissipation and more stable barndoors. Production was discontinued in 2003 in favor of the more modern True Blue series, with spare parts remaining available until 2010.
Practical Use in Film
The ST1 was primarily used as a key light for portrait shots and interviews in controlled studio environments. Cinematographers appreciated its precise focusability for selective illumination of faces without spill light onto the background. In Rainer Werner Fassbinder's "The Marriage of Maria Braun" (1979), DoP Michael Ballhaus used ST1 fixtures for the characteristic close-ups with hard side lighting. Its compact design also allowed for use in confined shooting situations, while its high light output ensured short exposure times at low film sensitivities.
Comparison & Alternatives
The ST1 competed directly with the Mole-Richardson Type 412 (1 kW) and the LTM Pepper 1000. Compared to these American models, it offered a more compact design with comparable light output. The Arri 650 Plus from the True Blue series became its successor, achieving a nearly identical light output with 35% less power consumption. Modern LED alternatives like the Arri Orbiter can simulate the light characteristics of the ST1 using a Fresnel attachment, but offer variable color temperature and significantly lower power consumption.