PC and Fresnel spots are two of the most widely used lighting tools in the theatre world. The PC spot, named after the plano-convex lens around which it is based, produces a relatively narrow beam with defined edges. This makes it ideal for dramatic highlights when focused to a narrow spot, or for more general colour washes when utilised as a wider flood. They are ideal for use as tightly focused specials for highlights, for example when you want to pick out a single performer for dramatic effect. PCs are also suitable for use in front of house positions.
In contrast, the Fresnel spot – named after the inventor of its lens, Augustin-Jean Fresnel – offers a broader beam with less-defined edges, thanks to the characteristic “stepped” mouldings on its outer face (Francis Reid, The Stage Lighting Handbook). Neither type is inherently “better”, and the choice between them depends on the specific needs of the Lighting Designer, who will often combine both fixture types within an effective stage lighting solution. The fundamental concepts of these fixtures are well-known amongst professionals but remain crucial for manufacturers like LDR, who have been building and selling these types of luminaires since 1997.
LDR’s Extensive Range of Options
Luci Della Ribalta (LDR) offers one of the widest ranges of PC and Fresnel luminaires, including both conventional and LED models. The Italian company has been serving the professional theatre market since 1997 and has maintained a consistent and dedicated focus on research and development in this area. All models, from the earliest fixtures to the latest additions, are still available with spare parts and accessories, ensuring that older units can be supported worldwide and complemented with new units if needed. Due to the vast range of available models, we will today concentrate on LDR’s extensive range of PC spots.
Why Incandescent Lighting Still Matters
Despite the benefits of LED lighting, many clients still request traditional incandescent lamps. LDR has chosen to continue producing and researching these types of fixtures, and as a result can boast to be one of the few manufacturers worldwide still active in this area.
Conventional PC Luminaires
Since the introduction of LEDs as a lighting source for theatrical applications, all fixtures still using a lamp are defined as “conventional”. LDR’s range of conventional luminaires includes models like the Tempo PC 650 Plus and the Tempo PC 650 Pro, which offer solid and reliable performance whilst prioritising simplicity and practicality. For those requiring higher performance, LDR offers advanced models like the Suono PC650 Plus, the Nota PC1200 XL, and the Tono PC2000 Plus, all designed to provide exceptional lighting quality with advanced features ensuring excellent luminosity and an extended lifespan.
Common Features of Excellence
All LDR conventional luminaires share several distinctive features that make them an excellent choice for any theatrical production. The elegant and compact bodies, constructed from aluminium and steel-sheet, ensure the perfect combination of robustness and lightness. The high-quality PC lens, made of German borosilicate glass, guarantees optimal luminosity, whilst the glass reflector with high-purity aluminium coating provides perfect light reflection. The micrometric screw-focusing mechanism allows precise lighting adjustment, whilst ensuring safety by preventing the control knobs from coming loose. A double micro-switch ensures a safe lamp replacement, whilst the lamp-base is adjustable for flexible configuration. A metal frame and safety grid are included in the standard package, along with a 1.5/2-meter power cord.
LED luminaires: The Evolution of Theatre Lighting
LDR’s LED range of PC luminaires represent the cutting-edge of theatrical lighting, combining energy efficiency and high-quality luminosity. The wide palette of LED models – currently including the Cetra PC (100/120W), the Arpa PC (150/180W) and the Alba PC (230/380W) – already cater to every need, from small theatres to large productions, but the choice will soon boast the top-of the range STELLA PC 600W, to cover the most demanding lighting needs in the largest of venues.
Common Features and Advantages
LDR’s LED PC spots share many features with conventional models, with some significant additions. They are both DMX512 and RDM controllable, feature a state-of the-art COB source rated for up to 50,000 hours of lifespan, a user-friendly menu (which is common throughout the whole range) and a high CRI – always above 90. Furthermore, they offer a choice of colour temperatures (CT) ranging from 3200K warm to 5600K cool white, RGBW, and TW. They operate at low noise levels due to optimised fan control, a crucial aspect in all theatre-type applications.
Customisation and Flexibility
Customisation and flexibility are key aspects for LDR. The company offers a wide range of finish options – including black, white, silver, or any colour from the RAL palette, upon request. Additionally, most models are available in a choice of either manual (MO), or pole-operated (PO) stirrups, meeting every mounting requirement.
Get in Touch
If you want to learn more about our products – or have specific questions or requests – feel free to contact us through our social media channels, website, or company numbers. We will be happy to share our expertise and meet your needs. In a diverse and sometimes confusing market, LDR aims to remain a benchmark in theatrical lighting, a goal we have pursued with consistency and dedication since 1997.