Arrimax 18/12

Overview

The ARRIMAX 18/12 is an HMI lamp manufactured by Munich-based ARRI (Arnold & Richter Cine Technik) and is part of the M-series. Its distinguishing feature is the lensless MAX Technology: instead of an interchangeable diffusion lens, a large, faceted parabolic reflector shapes the beam. This allows the beam angle to be adjusted continuously while the shadows remain sharply defined and can be cleanly feathered on set. The lamp thus combines the adjustable beam of a Fresnel with the high light output of a PAR.

The designation 18/12 refers to the two supported lamp wattages: the unit can operate with either 12,000-watt or 18,000-watt HMI lamps without requiring a change of the lamp holder.

Technical Specifications

Verified key data according to ARRI datasheet (as of July 2025):

As an HMI source, the ARRIMAX delivers daylight-like light with a color temperature of around 6,000 K and high color rendering (CRI over 90). According to ARRI, it is approximately 50% brighter than a 12K PAR.

On-Set Usage

The ARRIMAX 18/12 is among the most powerful single HMI lamps and is primarily used where a high amount of directed daylight is needed over a distance: as a hard key or background source for large sets, for daylight simulation through windows, for night exterior shots, and in feature film, commercial, and sports productions. Since no diffusion lenses are changed, beam adjustment is achieved solely through the focus control of the reflector.

Due to its high power consumption and weight of approximately 70 kg, the ARRIMAX belongs to the heavy lighting class: it requires a suitable electronic ballast (EB MAX 12/18), a load-bearing suspension or a stable tripod/rigging setup, and appropriate power supply. The optional spot reflector (8°–15°) allows for a narrower, more focused beam for greater throw.