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FreshDV Overview of Arri, Lowel, Mole Lighting Kits
Published by Matthew Jeppsen November 19th, 2007 in News 
FreshDV did a full review of three loaded lighting kits for DV Magazine recently; Lowel, Mole-Richardson, and Arri. They are all production-ready, but each features unique strengths and weaknesses. In the following short video, Kendal Miller walks through some of the major things we noted…the strength and construction of stands, barn doors, quality of cords and switches, and simplicity of swapping and replacing lamps. This should shed some *ahem* light on the strengths of each kit, and how it shines. (As you can see, we’re writing corny copy as a show of solidarity for the WGA’s currently striking writers.)
You can view the video in either Quicktime MOV format (right-click the link above) or as a Flash video stream (watch embedded below). Note that the above Quicktime version is higher resolution and quality.
Arri, Mole-Richardson, and Lowel lighting kits short overview.
FreshDV would like to thank the following for their involvement in making this segment possible:
Bruce Allen for providing a Sekonic cine light meter.
Lowel for providing a fully-loaded production lighting kit.
Mole-Richardson for providing a fully-loaded production lighting kit.
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I’d really like to see a continuation of this comparison, evaluating the quality and controllability of light from the three fixtures. I’ve never been satisfied with the light coming out of the lensless Lowells, but I can light just about anything with Mole Richardsons. What kits are available? Accessories? Pricing?
Nice comparison, would also love to see more, maybe comparing the lighting in different uses and environments. What about doing the same for tripods and hand held / shoulder mount devices?
Nice review and helpful.
I’ve got a Lowell kit with two Omnis and two Totas. I’ve been looking for a couple of Fresnels to round out the package. I thought I liked the Arri but after seeing this review, I definitely liked the Mole better.
I like the ease of changing the lamp and the heavy metal knobs used everywhere. I’ve got three cheep light stands with small plastic knobs and they hurt my fingers when I have to tighten or loosen them. I’m not buying anything with small plastic knobs if I can avoid it.
The only thing you left out was cost. At least include the manufacturer’s recommended retail price.
Thanks for the review.
Rob:-]
The Arri bulb can be changed just as easily as the Mole. The top swings open to reveal the bulb. Just push in on one of the top sides and then pull up and it should swing away on a hinge.
Dustin is right, I just picked up an Arri softbank I kit, which includes 2 650’s, 1 300 and 1 1K, the 650’s and the 300 all have a screw less compartment to insert a bulb. The left side of the housing simply lifts up and the bulb can be inserted, the 1K however requires the removal of two screws.
Excellent - I enjoyed the comparison of quality in the lights and the pros/cons comparisons you provided. Thanks guys!
Yes guys you are correct, I was thinking of the 1Ks having to remove the screen and face. Good catch guys, way to keep me honest :)
I just realized that we have never linked to the DV Magazine article that was the basis for this video overview. In that full review for DV we dug a bit deeper into each light kit and talk about specific features and pricing. Here it is: http://www.dv.com/reviews/reviews_item.php?articleId=196603466
-Matt Jeppsen