SmallRig RC 350 and RC 450 Series Released – High-Output COB LED Lights

Lighting News

by Francesco AndreolaDecember 12^th, 2022

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SmallRig has recently expanded its lighting ecosystem with four high-output COB LED lights, the RC 350 and RC 450 models. These fixtures can output up to 172,000 lux at 1 meter, have a standard Bowens mount, and come with a secure damping support system. Pricing starts at $799.

SmallRig’s adventure into the lighting world continues. After releasing their first COB LED lights, namely the RC 120D and RC 120B earlier this year, the company introduced the RC 220 series as well as the RA-S280 light stands.

I’ve recently had the chance to try out the RC 220B, and I must admit that, despite its improvable build quality and the old-fashioned status display, I found it to be a very competitive product. Now, the Chinese company is trying to step up its game by introducing 4 punchier fixtures, the RC 350 and RC 450 models. Let’s take a closer look!

SmallRig RC 350 & RC 450 series: features

The new SmallRig RC 350 and RC 450 series consist of a total of 4 fixtures: RC 350D, RC 350B, RC 450D, and RC 450B. The “D” models are daylight-balanced (5,600K), while the color temperature of the RC 350B and RC 450B is adjustable between 2,700 and 6,500K.

With CRI 96+ and TLCI 97+ ratings, the output of these lights should be pretty color-accurate. The RC 450D is the most powerful family member. When using the included 55° hyper reflector, it is claimed to output up to 172,000 lux at a distance of 1 meter. Here is the maximum output for all the other models, as declared by the manufacturer:

• RC 350B – 115,000 lux at 1m (with hyper reflector, 5,600K)
• RC 350D – 149,000 lux at 1m (with hyper reflector)
• RC 450B – 121,000 lux at 1m (with hyper reflector, 5,600K)

According to SmallRig, this increase in brightness was achieved thanks to their “AstralTech” optical system, which makes use of larger, more powerful LED chips as well as beaded front glass elements with high light transmittance (up to 97% for visible light).

The lamp head is equipped with a standard Bowens mount, meaning that the fixtures can be paired with a vast range of proprietary and third-party modifiers. Moreover, the RC 350 and RC 450 pack up to 9 built-in lighting effects (Flash, Paparazzi, Party, Faulty Bulb, TV, Flame, Fireworks, Breath).

Power, design and control

The SmallRig RC 350 and RC 450 lights come with a 220V power adapter that is claimed to be extremely efficient thanks to its GaN (Gallium Nitride) semiconductor technology. The adapter features a wire cable tether to attach it to C-stands, although I would have preferred to see a proper locking clamp.

Compared to the RC 120 and RC 220 models, the lamp head has been completely redesigned from the ground up, according to the manufacturer. The light body now features a lightweight construction made of metal and a V-0 non-flammable material. Hopefully, this makes these models more robust than their predecessors, which feel pretty plasticky, in my opinion.

The design integrates a dual-fan cooling system, that is said to be very quiet (32dB at 1 meter). Moreover, the dedicated mounting bracket allows for 220° tilt adjustments and features a secure damping system that can prevent damage if the mount accidentally gets loose. This can be useful to protect the fixture, especially when working with heavy modifiers.

Users can adjust settings via the onboard controls on the back of each unit or the SmallGoGo smartphone app (iOS / Android). Additionally, an optional wired control panel has been specifically developed for the RC 350 and RC 450 models.

Price and availability

The new SmallRig RC 350 and RC 450 fixtures are now available to purchase from B&H and CVP. All lights come with a convenient carrying bag. Their official retail prices vary as follows:

• RC 350D – $799 (B&H / CVP)
• RC 350B – $899 (B&H / CVP)
• RC 450D – $999 (B&H / CVP)
• RC 450B – $1,099 (B&H / CVP)

Finally, the SmallRig Control Panel for RC 350 & RC 450 is also available to purchase separately for $79.

For more information, please visit SmallRig’s website here.

Have you ever used SmallRig fixtures on set? What do you think about the RC 350 and RC 450 series? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!