Nanlite 50cm RGB LED tube with 1350 lux, 204 diodes, 5h battery life and app control for on-set lighting.
Technical Details
The 15C model measures 503 x 38 x 38 mm with a weight of 650 g and achieves a light output of 1350 Lux at 1 meter distance. The LED unit consists of 204 individual diodes (68 RGB + 136 warm/cool white) and is powered by an integrated 4900 mAh lithium battery with up to 5 hours of runtime at full power. Control is optionally via integrated buttons, DMX512, or the dedicated Nanlink app via Bluetooth. The housing complies with IP65 standard and can withstand a drop height of 1.2 meters. Variants include the more compact 6C (20 cm) and the longer 30C (1 meter).
History & Development
Nanlite introduced the PavoTube series in 2019 in response to the growing demand for mobile RGB solutions in the low-budget segment. The concept adapted the RGB technology already established by ARRI SkyPanel into a handy, battery-powered format. The second generation followed in 2020 with improved app integration and more precise color reproduction. The current version from 2022 integrates extended effect modes and compatibility with common lighting control systems.
Practical Use in Film
Independent productions often use PavoTubes as hidden practicals in vehicle interiors or as colored accent lighting behind objects. The tubes are particularly suitable for simulating neon light, computer monitors, or as moving kickers in Steadicam shots. Advantage: Silent operation and instant color changes without gel filters. Disadvantage: Limited light output requires additional amplification for larger setups. The narrow beam characteristic creates hard shadows without diffusion.
Comparison & Alternatives
Directly competes with the Astera Titan Tube (higher light output, double the price) and the Godox TL60 (similar specifications, weaker app). Compared to classic Kino Flo tubes, the 15C offers color flexibility but sacrifices the even area illumination of longer fluorescent tubes. For larger productions with higher budgets, ARRI SkyPanel or Creamsource Vortex remain the standards, while PavoTubes play to their strengths in mobile, budget-conscious productions.