PAR 38

Overview

PAR 38 refers to a lamp from the PAR family. The abbreviation PAR stands for Parabolic Aluminized Reflector: the light source, reflector, and usually the front lens form a sealed unit, so that the light is already bundled and directed upon exiting the lamp. The number 38 indicates the diameter of the reflector opening in eighths of an inch. This results in 38 ÷ 8 = 4.75 inches, or approximately 120 mm front diameter. Household-type PAR 38 lamps have an Edison screw base (E26 in North America, E27 in Europe) and can therefore be screwed into simple sockets – unlike larger stage PARs (e.g., PAR 64), which have a two-pin GX16d base and are inserted into a PAR can housing.

Technical Classification

PAR lamps are not controlled via a zoom or movable lenses, but rather by the permanently burned-in beam spread characteristic of the respective light source. The beam spread is indicated by letter codes on the lamp:

The final beam angle is determined by the specific lamp; the exact values are listed on the respective manufacturer's data sheet.

Use on Set

Due to the integrated reflector, the PAR 38 provides a compact, easily directed light. In film, TV, and stage applications, PAR lamps are typically used where a high, broad light component is required. The PAR 38 is among the smaller representatives of the family and is suitable for accent and effect lighting, practicals (lamps visible in the shot), and smaller setups. It is often used in a colored version (e.g., as a red "Reflector Flood"). For high light output over longer distances, larger stage PARs are used.

Distinction from PAR 64

The size code is formed the same way across the entire PAR range. A PAR 64 measures 64 ÷ 8 = 8 inches (~203 mm) in diameter and is therefore significantly larger and more powerful than the PAR 38. PAR 64 is the classic stage PAR can; PAR 38 is the smaller lamp that can be used in screw sockets.