K5600 Joker: HMI light series (200W–1600W), ultra-lightweight from 1.2 kg with modular reflectors for location shooting and documentary filmmaking.
Technical Details
The Joker system includes the Joker-Bug 200W (1.2 kg), Joker2 400W (2.8 kg), Joker2 800W (4.9 kg), and Joker2 1600W (8.5 kg) models. All variants operate with electronic ballasts at flicker-free high-frequency operation (30-50 kHz). The modular design allows for switching between different reflectors: Beamer reflector (15°-50°), reflector with Fresnel lens, or open reflector for maximum light output. The lamps achieve 3200K when using CTO filters, and the fixtures feature DMX-512 connection and stepless electronic dimming from 50-100%.
History & Development
K5600 Lighting developed the first Joker-Bug in 1995 in response to the demand for ultra-lightweight HMI fixtures for documentary and newsgathering productions. Company founder Kas Oosterhuis, a former cinematographer, recognized the limitations of heavy conventional HMI systems for mobile shoots. The Joker2 series followed in 2010 with improved electronics and higher light output. The current generation from 2019 integrates wireless DMX control and app-based remote control via Bluetooth.
Practical Use in Film
Joker fixtures have established themselves as a standard for handheld shooting and location shooting with limited equipment transport. In "28 Days Later" (2002), cinematographer Anthony Dod Mantle exclusively used Joker-Bug 200W for the zombie scenes to complement the extreme mobility of the digital cameras. Their compact dimensions allow for discreet positioning on sets – the Joker2 800W fits through standard doorways and can be attached to vehicles using suction cup rigging. Disadvantages include limited area coverage with a pinpoint characteristic and higher acquisition cost per watt compared to conventional HMI systems.
Comparison & Alternatives
Unlike ARRI M-series HMI fixtures, Joker prioritizes portability over maximum light output – an ARRI M40 (4000W) weighs 23 kg, while four Joker2 800W units achieve comparable illumination with a total weight of 19.6 kg. LED panels like ARRI SkyPanel or Litepanels Gemini offer similar mobility but with a variable color temperature of 2500K-6500K and lower point light intensity. Joker systems dominate in applications requiring high light distances or matching hard sunlight, while LED alternatives are more efficient for interiors and diffused lighting.