Noise reduced Vari*Lite Series 3000 Q luminaires

For situations where the absence of noise is critical to the performance, Vari-Lite introduced its Series 3000 Q luminaires, an expansion of the highly popular 1200W Series 3000 fixtures. Engineering of the new "Q" (for quiet) range fixtures resulted in an audible noise output reduction of 50 percent from the original Series 3000 spot and wash luminaires. "Customers who have noise-critical applications will prefer the 'Q' versions," said Vari-Lite product manager George Masek. "The fixtures are designed and engineered for Broadway productions, television, houses of worship or any setting where quiet fixtures are crucial for a successful performance and audience experience. That we were able to reduce the noise output by 10 dBA is extremely significant." Vari-Lite engineers achieved a 50-percent audible noise reduction by slowing the fixture's seven fans and redesigning several key elements to handle the increased heat load on the internal components. A high-performance UV/IR window filters additional unwanted non-visible wavelengths from the bulb that would otherwise be passed through the optical train. Other changes include the use of higher temperature materials and more efficient airflow paths to keep components cool. All operational features currently in the Series 3000 fixtures are present in the Series 3000Q products. The Series 3000Q fixtures move and operate the same as the original Series 3000 spot and wash luminaires. The trade off is strictly thermal. The "Q" range has an ambient temperature rating of 40-degrees Celsius, compared to the 50-degree Celsius rating on the standard Series 3000 fixtures. "The 'Q' range fixtures meet the 40-degree Celsius ambient operating temperature that seems to be the industry standard that other automated lighting manufacturers shoot for," Masek said. "The Series 3000Q range is engineered for specific applications and installations where the ambient temperature is not a factor, but silence is." For customers who already own Series 3000 wash and spot luminaires, Vari-Lite offers the option of purchasing a "Q-kit," which includes all of the necessary hardware, electronics and glass needed to convert a standard Series 3000 luminaire to a "Q" version. The change in size due to the modifications is minimal. Basically, the bottom vent cover is one inch taller and the unit is about a pound heavier.