Arri 1000W Fresnel with 150mm lens, 4.8kg; 16,800 candela in spot mode. Used for portraiture and key lighting.
Technical Details
The T1 weighs 4.8 kg and measures 380 x 290 x 425 mm with the barndoors folded in. The Fresnel lens has a diameter of 150 mm and focuses the light of a 1000W halogen lamp (type CP40 FEL). The fixture achieves a light intensity of 16,800 candela in spot mode and 1,250 candela at maximum flood setting. The die-cast aluminum housing features forced ventilation and a 16mm spigot for mounting on stands. Four adjustable barndoors allow for precise light shaping.
History & Development
Arri introduced the T1 in 1987 as part of a completely revised Tungsten series, replacing the outdated 650W and 2000W models. The T1 quickly established itself as a standard fixture for smaller productions and location shoots where the favorable ratio of light output to weight was crucial. With the increasing prevalence of LED technology, demand for Tungsten fixtures began to decline from 2010 onwards, yet the T1 remained in Arri's product range until production ceased in 2018.
Practical Use in Film
The T1 is particularly suitable for portrait lighting and as a key light for close-ups. For interior shots, it often serves as window light or for accentuating details. The barndoors allow for sharp light cuts, which is why the T1 is also used for background separation. The fixture requires a 16A circuit breaker and can be operated via standard CEE connectors. Due to its high heat output (approximately 3000 BTU/h), adequate ventilation and safety distances from flammable materials are necessary.
Comparison & Alternatives
Compared to the larger T2 (2000W), the T1 offers greater mobility with lower light output. Modern LED alternatives such as the Arri L7-C or SkyPanel S30-C achieve similar illuminance levels with significantly lower power consumption and variable color temperature. 575W HMI daylight fixtures outperform the T1 in terms of light output for exterior shots. For budget-conscious productions, the T1 remains a practical solution due to its low acquisition cost and robust construction, provided power consumption and heat generation are acceptable.