Dutch manufacturer of cost-effective LED panels and studio strobes with CRI 95-98, bi-color 3000K–5600K, and Bowens-Mount for low-budget productions.
Technical Details
Falcon Eyes LED panels achieve CRI values between 95-98 and TLCI values above 96, thus delivering broadcast-ready color reproduction. The RX series offers bi-color LEDs with stepless color temperature control between 3000K-5600K at constant brightness. Studio strobes of the SS series operate with flash powers from 150Ws to 600Ws with modeling light powers of 150W halogen. The devices use a Bowens S-mount for light modifiers and offer wireless 2.4GHz remote control with 16 channels and 4 groups.
History & Development
Falcon Eyes was founded in 1993 in the Netherlands and initially focused on photo studio lighting with flash units. In 2008, the company expanded into the video sector with the introduction of continuous LED lighting. The breakthrough came in 2012 with the RX-18TD, one of the first affordable bi-color LED panels with app control. Since 2018, the company has been producing COB LEDs (Chip-on-Board) with outputs up to 300W for cinematic applications.
Practical Use in Film
Falcon Eyes RX panels serve as cost-effective fill lights in documentary productions and corporate videos where compact design and battery operation are crucial. The SO-28TD in a 1x1 foot format often replaces Kino Flo tube lights in low-budget productions. In the series "4 Blocks" (2017), the lighting department used Falcon Eyes LEDs for interior shots in cramped apartment sets. The advantage lies in low heat development and flicker-free operation at 25fps/50fps recordings.
Comparison & Alternatives
Falcon Eyes positions itself price-wise between consumer LEDs and high-end manufacturers like ARRI or Litepanels. While ARRI SkyPanels cost over €5000, comparable Falcon Eyes panels are priced between €300-€800. The color accuracy does not reach the reference standards of Kino Flo or ARRI, but it is sufficient for online content and documentaries. As an alternative to the Aputure 300D, Falcon Eyes offers the LP-2005TD with similar light output at a lower price, but without the extensive accessory ecosystem.