ADJ's New LED Strobe/Wash Fixtures Offer A Jolt of Creativity In Any Weather

May 21, 2024

Taking ADJ's Jolt Series of multifunctional strobe/wash fixtures to the next level, the new Jolt Panel FXIP and Jolt Bar FXIP feature IP65-rated weatherproof casing designs that allow the fixtures to be used safely outdoors in any weather. Delivering lighting designers the creative potential of dazzlingly bright white strobe/blinder LEDs combined with zone-controllable RGB color mixing LEDs in the same versatile fixture, these new Jolt Series luminaires also offer a variety of other improvements and upgrades over the original models, the company says.

Both fixtures feature a central strip of 5W cool white SMD LEDs which are extremely bright and, when combined in multiples on the face of each Jolt fixture, generate truly intense strobe and blinder effects. The white LEDs are surrounded on both sides by arrays of 0.5W RGB color mixing LEDs (increased from 0.3W on the original models). A wide variety of vibrant color options can be achieved using the RGB LEDs through individual dimming control of the independent red, green, and blue elements. Used as single-color sources, the fixtures can be used to generate potent washes that cover a large area. Alternatively, through use of the zone control function, each independent block of LEDs can be controlled separately to allow for the creation of dynamic chases and other animated pattern effects.

The Jolt Bar FXIP features a central strip of 112 x white LEDs, surrounded on both sides by a total of 448 color LEDs. Both types of LED are grouped into independently controllable zones (16 white and 32 color), which means the unit can also be used to generate strobe chases and colored 'eye candy' animated pattern effects. Measuring 1m in length (39.4"), the fixture is compact in its other dimensions (4.19" / 106.4mm and 5.42" / 137.5mm) and weighs an easily manageable 20.5lb / 9.3kg. It features two variable angle brackets, which can be used to set the unit directly onto the floor of a stage or attach clamps to facilitate truss mounting either vertically or horizontally. This upgraded version is also supplied with Omega Receiver Brackets which can easily replace the angle brackets and allow a pair of Omega clamps to attach directly to the rear of the fixture. Magnets fitted into each end of the fixture aid with creating seamless runs of LEDs across two or more fixtures. Each unit is also supplied with a metal bracket, screwed into the back panel for convenient storage, which can be used to secure neighboring units in place after the magnets are used to achieve perfect alignment.

The Jolt Panel FXIP incorporates 48 x white LEDs, surrounded on both sides by a total of 800 x RGB LEDs, arranged in a panel configuration. Again, both types of LED are grouped into independently controllable zones (six white and 40 color), allowing for the creation of eye-catching animated chase patterns. With dimensions of 6.06" (153.8mm) x 16.42" (417mm) x 10.38" (263.5mm) [L x W x H], the fixture is big enough to assert its presence within a lighting rig but compact enough to be easily setup and transported. It weighs in at 13.67lb / 6.2kg and is supplied with a variable angle yoke, which locks into place securely using two large plastic handles. This yoke features a reinforced design that represents a significant upgrade from the original model. Alternatively, the yoke can be removed and the unit features mounting points on the back which allow direct connection of an Omega bracket.

Another significant upgrade can be found in the construction of the units. Not only do they offer IP65-ratings, but they have been re-engineered with more robust, touring-grade enclosures. Built from thick metal with sleek rounded corners, both fixtures are ready to withstand the rigors of the road when transported from show to show in touring carts. They can be used outside in any weather conditions, but even for indoor shows their IP65-rated design offers protection from thrown drinks, confetti, haze residue, and other particulates. This ensures rock solid reliability as well as permitting a reduced maintenance schedule.

Both models are equipped with wireless DMX transceivers -- an upgrade over the original versions -- which utilize the new Aria X2 technology. This not only provides extremely stable wireless signal distribution by creating a wireless mesh network between all compatible fixtures but also allows remote fixture management that provides full access to the system menu remotely via a smartphone app.

Another useful upgrade is the addition of a dedicated slot in the front of each fixture designed to accommodate a light modifier. Featuring a spring-loaded locking mechanism, this allows filters to be quickly, easily, and securely positioned in front of the LEDs. Both models are supplied with an optional frost filter, which slides into the channel and blurs the LED output to generate a distinctly different effect with less pixelization. In addition, other filters are available as optional extras, including a black option and a curved 3D textured filter, further adding to the creative versatility these fixtures offer to lighting designers.

DMX addressing and mode selection (the Jolt Bar FXIP offers 13 channel options ranging from 6 to 126 and the Jolt Panel FXIP supports 10 options ranging from 6 to 141 channels) is facilitated via a large backlit LCD display on the rear panel of each fixture. These provide access to a menu-driven interface navigated via four push buttons, which also allows configuration of the fixtures' various operating parameters including selectable dimming modes, dimming curves, and LED refresh rates.

IP65-rated locking power input and output sockets are provided on both models, with the latter allowing the power supply for multiple fixtures to be daisy chained from a single outlet (6 @ 120V / 12 @ 230V). The fixtures are also equipped with 5-pin input and output sockets for connection of a wired DMX control signal and all four sockets are fitted with rubber caps which provide protection from liquids and dust while not in use.

"The original Jolt Series fixtures have proven to be extremely popular, both in the touring/rental and venue integration markets," comments ADJ USA's director of sales, Alfred Gonzales. "However, a consistent request from customers was for an IP65-rated version that can be used safely for outdoor stages and events in any weather. The Jolt Bar FXIP and Jolt Panel FXIP satisfy that request while also integrating other significant improvements over the original design. The result is truly versatile LED strobe/wash panel and bar fixtures that provide lighting designers with huge creative freedom both in their deployment and in the variety of effects they can be used to produce. Ideal for outdoor festival stages and EDM events, these new models elevate ADJ's flagship Jolt Series to the next level."

The Jolt Panel FXIP and Jolt Bar FXIP are available now from ADJ USA and ADJ Europe.

Find out more about Jolt Panel FXIP here: www.adj.com/jolt-panel-fxip
Find out more about Jolt Bar FXIP here: www.adj.com/jolt-bar-fxip

Video demos:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=MmO3XG7q-6k
www.youtube.com/watch?v=FynadmWRi90