Battle: Arri 650 vs Arri 1000 Open Face
In this article we will compare a Arri 650w Fresnel to Arri 1000w Open Face.
Please note that at PAT Rentals, we carry both lights.
Quick verdict: Arri 650 is a more versatile light though its more sturdy construction (read: heavier) can pose a problem when mounting the light in certain environments.
One can't imagine a film set without seeing the blue hue of the Arri lights. The Arri 650 unit is small, light, portable, simple to use and extremely reliable. Its Fresnel lens provide superb level of control between Flood and Spot position allowing for quick light manipulation. The beam can be further shaped with the included barndoors.
Arri 1000 Open Face, on the other hand, is a simple instrument. As its name implies it doesn't have a lens (the "open face" in its name) and only a protective metal mesh between the bulb and the scene. Lack of fresnel glass is responsible for limited control with its Spot-to-Flood knob.
In Flood position, both light provide even light spread and equal coverage. Though Arri 1000 is a tad brighter, both lights are matched.
It's the Spot position on both light that reveal differences. Due to its fresnel lens, Arri 650 is much more precise in transition from Flood to Spot. On the other hand, Arri 1000 Open Face is much more crude. In the Spot position there is a significant spillage outside of the light spot that would require use of barndoors for control.
The fresnel lens also produces cleaner shadows. Arri 1000's shadows (shadow on the left) are much less defined so this unit shouldn't be your first choice when seeking shadows.
Though both Arri units are great, Arri 650 is much nicer unit. Its beam is cleaner producing nicer shadows and its Flood to Spot controls are unparalleled.
Hopefully you found this comparison useful. You can find both lights for rent at PAT Rentals (www.patrentals.com).