Priolite, the German manufacturer, have revealed that they have another location studio light in the works. This one will be twice as powerful as their innovative MB500, which runs on an internal rechargeable lithium battery.
On their Facebook page, the firm announced:
“Here’s a hint: we will be presenting an MB1000 at this year’s Photokina. This should meet the highest standards of mobile flash power that can be accomplished!”
Photokina is a worldwide photographic trade show held in Cologne once every two years. This year’s event takes place on the 18th to 23rd September 2012.
At 1000J (1000Ws) the MB1000 will be the most powerful monolight of its kind available on the market. Another example of a light powered by an internal battery is the N-flash from Nicefoto. Most other manufacturers opt for separate battery packs connected by cable, such as Bowens and Multiblitz who offer the Travelpak and Propac, respectively.
The MB500 is listed to provide 400 full power flashes from a single charge, so – all other things being equal – we could expect the MB1000 to fire 200 or more shots before running out of juice. The original weighs 4.2kg and the new model will be even heavier, so you’ll definitely need something sturdier than a Nano stand to support it!
Other notable features of the MB1000 (assuming it will be like the MB500) include:
- hybrid Hensel/Bowens accessory bayonet
- radio control and triggering from the camera position using the Priolite RC
- LED modelling lamp
- intelligent cooling fan
- “Made in Germany”
Where to buy
Priolites are sold in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and the Netherlands. A list of distributors may be found on the company web site. The MB500 currently costs the best part of €1,100 in Europe.