On the main stand, the big news was the VL500, the new wash fixture from Vari-Lite, available in four versions, all effectively modelled on the well-known Vari*Lite VL5. On show were the 1000W tungsten with on-board dimmer, which can also be run off an external dimmer; a 700W arc source; and 575W arc. The fourth model, with a high output 1200W 80V tungsten lamp, will debut at LDI in Orlando in November. The VL500 will run in two modes - 'theatrical', where lamp movement will be moderated (slow) for quietness, and 'r'n'r' with high speedre-positioning. There is also a B variant for TV work, with enhanced pastel shades and lighter warm and cold colours suited to the environment.
PRG's sales team racked up the orders for the new VL at the show. Philip Norfolk told L&SI he was "astounded at the level of new business".
