GLP’s X5 Dot: A New LED Fixture Inspired by Neil Austin’s Vision

A new LED fixture, the GLP X5 Dot, has emerged from a collaborative effort between German Light Products (GLP) and award-winning lighting designer Neil Austin. The X5 Dot aims to provide a precise replacement for the classic miniature MR16 ‘Birdie’ spotlight, a long-favored tool for footlights and concealed stage lighting.

The Quest for the Ideal LED Replacement

For years, lighting designers have sought an LED alternative to the MR16 Birdie. While previous attempts existed, they often fell short of replicating the original’s performance. Neil Austin believes the X5 Dot finally meets all the necessary technical parameters. He has been field-testing 14 X5 Dot Wash fixtures, concealed within footlight shells, for the West End production of Paddington the Musical, which has received five-star reviews.

A Seven-Year Development Process

The development of the X5 Dot began in 2018, following Austin’s successful collaboration with GLP on Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, a production that spurred the creation of groundbreaking fixtures. Austin and GLP USA Director Mark Ravenhill envisioned a small, cost-effective, yet powerful unit that would directly replace the Birdie. Yet, it took seven years to perfect the design, waiting for technology to catch up to their vision.

Key Features of the X5 Dot

The X5 Dot incorporates several key features:

• X5 Color Mixing: Utilizes red, green, blue, and lime elements, calibrated to match other X5 Series fixtures.
• Inbuilt Zoom: Offers a zoom range from 16° to 43° without altering the unit’s length.
• Smooth Dimming: Provides a full range, smooth dimming curve.
• Convection Cooling: Features fan-free convection cooling and an IP65 housing.
• MR16 Compatibility: Accepts MR16 accessories, such as barndoors.
• Compact Connector: Designed with a tiny connector for effortless integration into props and scenery.

Austin’s Requirements and GLP’s Response

Austin emphasized the need for a single-pixel source with the quality of the impression X5. He praised the X5’s chip for its lovely color rendering on faces and skin tones, as well as its homogenized beam without chromatic aberration. The X5 Dot also serves as a glow light, aiding performers in low-visibility situations, such as those wearing restrictive costumes like a Paddington suit.

GLP responded to Austin’s requirements by incorporating its X5-signature advanced iQ.Gamut color mixing algorithm and a perfect dimming curve. The fixture operates on a 24V supply, with power and DMX running through a single connector. Manual zoom and focus were also essential for easy integration into stage setups.

Integration with Existing Systems

As Neil Austin currently utilizes 57 impression X5 Washes and 26 impression X5 1000 Bars in Paddington the Musical, the X5 Dot seamlessly integrates with the existing lighting system, providing a perfectly matched and uniform color calibration.

Future Potential and Innovation

GLP has further enhanced the X5 Dot with an innovative Twist-Zoom mechanism, expanding its zoom range. Austin predicts the fixture will be widely adopted by lighting designers, not only for stage lighting but also for architectural applications, both internal and external. He acknowledges GLP’s willingness to grab risks on smaller projects and listen to innovative ideas.