Dracast Silkray: LED panel with integrated diffuser, delivering 4200–12800 lux depending on model at 120° beam angle with bi-color technology.
The Silkray series is based on SMD LED technology with bi-color chips. The 400 model delivers 4200 Lux at one meter distance, the 1000 reaches 8500 Lux, while the 1500 flagship produces 12,800 Lux. The integrated diffuser reduces light output by approximately 1.5 stops but expands the beam angle to 120 degrees. Power consumption varies between 48W (Silkray 400) and 150W (Silkray 1500). All models feature 0-100% dimming in 1% increments and can be powered via V-mount batteries or mains power.
Dracast introduced the Silkray line in 2016 in response to the demand for plug-and-play soft light solutions. The California-based company developed the integrated diffuser concept as an alternative to conventional LED panels with separate softboxes. DMX functionality was added in 2018, followed by app control via Bluetooth in 2020. The current generation (since 2021) offers improved color rendering and reduced power consumption.
Silkray panels are particularly suitable for interview setups where quick setup and consistent illumination are required. In corporate video production, the lights have become standard for talking-head formats. In documentaries, they are often used as fill light or for indirect wall lighting. The quiet operation (under 20dB) makes them suitable for sound recording on set. The compact design allows for transport in standard trolleys and significantly reduces grip equipment needs.
Compared to classic Tungsten soft lights (Redhead with softbox), Silkrays offer significantly lower heat development and power consumption. However, compared to ARRI Skypanel or Litepanels Gemini, there are compromises in maximum light output and color accuracy. Silkrays have established themselves as a cost-effective alternative to Kino Flo Diva-Lite 401 in budget productions. Modern competitors such as Aputure Nova or Godox Softlight offer similar functionality with sometimes higher light output.
Ich schätze die Silkrays für ihre konstante Farbtemperatur über den gesamten Dimmbereich – keine Farbverschiebungen wie bei billigen LEDs. Der fest montierte Diffusor spart Zeit beim Setup, aber ich verliere Flexibilität bei der Lichtformung. Für Beauty-Light bei Interviews perfekt, für dramatische Beleuchtung zu weich.
Mit den Silkrays erreiche ich schnell eine natürliche, schmeichelhafte Ausleuchtung meiner Darsteller ohne harte Schatten. Die App-Steuerung ermöglicht mir subtile Anpassungen während der Aufnahme, ohne dass die Crew eingreifen muss. Allerdings fehlt mir manchmal die Durchschlagskraft für wirkungsvolle Kontraste.
Die Silkrays reduzieren meine Stromkosten am Set erheblich – keine 2kW-Tungsten-Leuchten mehr, die separate Generatoren benötigen. Der Zeitgewinn beim Auf- und Abbau senkt die Crew-Kosten, besonders bei Multi-Location-Drehs. Anschaffungspreis liegt bei etwa 800€ pro 1000er-Unit – solide Investition mit geringen Folgekosten.
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