Falcon Eyes LED panel with 312 SMD-LEDs, 6,800 lux at 1m, CRI 95+, variable color temperature 3200–5600K, touch display and DMX control for portable film lighting.
Technical Details
The LED panel features 312 high-quality SMD LEDs and achieves a maximum light output of 6,800 lux at a distance of one meter. The CRI value is 95+, the TLCI is 97+. The color temperature can be continuously adjusted between 3200K and 5600K, and the brightness from 10-100%. The unit can be powered via V-Mount or Gold Mount batteries, DC adapter (14.8V), or optionally via USB-C (PD 65W). The runtime with a 95Wh V-Mount battery is approximately 90 minutes at full load.
The touch display shows all parameters digitally and allows for precise adjustments. Additionally, the SO-68TD features DMX-512 control and app control via Bluetooth. Included are barndoors, a diffuser, and a ball head tripod adapter.
History & Development
Falcon Eyes introduced the SO-68TD in 2019 in response to the growing demand for compact, battery-powered LED panels. The Dutch manufacturer thus expanded its "Studio Output" series with a portable model for run-and-gun productions. In 2021, a firmware update followed, which added extended DMX functions and Bluetooth control.
Practical Use in Film
The SO-68TD is suitable as a fill light for interviews, as a practical light on sets, or for illuminating small areas. In the Netflix series "Dogs of Berlin" (2018), similar Falcon Eyes panels were used for character lighting inside vehicle interiors. The panel can be operated handheld and on lightweight tripods up to 1.5m in height.
The low heat development allows for use close to actors. The touch operation enables quick adjustments without a separate control panel. In daylight scenes, the panel compensates for harsh shadows as a fill light, while indoors it serves as a practical window light or lamp simulation.
Comparison & Alternatives
Compared to the Aputure AL-M9, the SO-68TD offers significantly more light output but is less compact. Compared to the Litepanels Astra 1x1, it is more portable but achieves only about 30% of its light output. A direct competitor is the Godox LED500C, which is cheaper at similar performance but has lower color rendering.
For larger sets, switching to 150W+ panels like the Falcon Eyes SO-150TD is recommended. For mobile one-person crews, the SO-68TD remains the first choice due to its balanced ratio of performance, size, and battery life.