In this review we will be looking at the latest Nanlite Mixpanel 150 RGB. This is a brand-new RGB panel from Nanlite. And we have to admit, it performs really, really well and left a lasting impression on us. This Nanlite series actually has two models, the top 150 model which puts out 150 watts of power, and a smaller 60 watt model aptly called the Nanlite Mixpanel 60 RGB.
These panel have some great specs you’d expect to find in this price-range, such as a CRI of 98, and a TLCI of 95. They also combine three types of light sources in one package. There’s hard and soft lighting, but also RGB lighting. We found that these panels are extremely well-built, are very, very thin in appearance and they still feel quite durable. This should come as no surprise, as these have a metal frame with a carbon-fiber overlay. So no complaints from us here. I’m sure they’ll stand the test of time.
We think it’s great that they have a built-in gel library with plenty of choices. It also comes with nine special effects, such as paparazzi, fire, police, etc. There’s also a pretty cool option to switch the built-in soft box on and off, at the press of a button, which is quite remarkable. Easy to use and a time-saver.
As for the light output we did some simple measurements and Nanlite seems to be delivering what they are promising in the specs. We’ve already used the Nanlite in some of our productions as you can tell from the shot below. We’re over the moon in terms of its performance and portability.
The Mixpanel also has a V-Mount plate mounted on the back. Extremely useful if you’re using it outdoors. It easily ran for hours on a couple of larger batteries.
Overall we found the unit easy to use with great color reproduction. The controls are not at all complicated, and the interface is easily accessible.
The only real letdown to me (if you can call it that) is that there’s no way to control the panel through an app directly. You will need to purchase a separate WiFi module to control it remotely. But hey, at least the possibility is there. We did not have the module though so we were unable to test the app functionality. Finally, these panels come with a nicely designed case for transport. So there’s no need to run out and purchase a case separately, a definite plus for me.
All in all, we were impressed and have to admit that this is one of the best RGB lights we’ve had in our hands recently. Both in terms of (build) quality and output, so these come highly recommended. Pricing for the Nanlite Mixpanel 150 RGB will be around 1100 US dollars, the Nanlite Mixpanel 60 RGB will set you back 799,- US dollars.