When choosing between LED and traditional Leko lights for your production, the decision hinges on efficiency, performance, and cost. While LED Lekos dominate modern setups with energy savings and advanced features, traditional Lekos still hold value for certain applications. Let’s break down the key differences with real-world data and examples to help you make the best choice.
Energy Efficiency & Cost Savings
LED Lekos consume up to 80% less power than traditional halogen or tungsten models. For example:
● A 750W traditional Leko can be replaced by a 150W LED Leko with comparable brightness.
●Over a 10,000-hour lifespan, an LED fixture saves roughly 600inelectricitycosts∗∗(assuming600inelectricitycosts∗∗(assuming0.15/kWh).
Traditional Lekos, while cheaper upfront (200–200–500 vs. 600–600–1,500 for LED), incur higher long-term costs due to bulb replacements (every 500–1,000 hours) and energy use.
Lifespan & Maintenance
● LED Lekos: Last 50,000+ hours (5+ years of heavy use). Brands like ETC Source Four LED report zero bulb replacements in 8-year installations.
● Traditional Lekos: Require frequent bulb swaps (e.g., HPL 750W lamps last ~1,000 hours). A Broadway theater using 100 fixtures may replace 500+ bulbs annually, adding labor and downtime.
Heat & Safety
● LEDs emit 90% less heat, reducing venue cooling needs. Tests show a 750W traditional Leko hits 300°F+, while an equivalent LED stays below 120°F.
● Example: The Chicago Lyric Opera cut air conditioning costs by 20% after switching to LED Lekos.
Color Performance & Flexibility
Critics argue traditional Lekos offer superior CRI (95+) and warmth. However, high-end LEDs now match this:
● Igracelite LED Lekos achieve CRI ≥95 and adjustable 2000K–6500K color temps, ideal for film (e.g., Netflix’s “The Crown” uses LEDs for accurate skin tones).
●Traditional Lekos still dominate when maximum brightness is critical (e.g., outdoor concerts needing 20,000+ lux).
Accessories & Output
●Traditional Lekos support more lens tubes (e.g., 5°–90° beam angles) and gobos for intricate patterns.
●LED Lekos compensate with zoom optics (e.g., Chauvet Pro R2X Spot offers 15°–35° zoom) and built-in effects (e.g., color scrolling).
Real-World Verdict
● Choose LED Lekos for:
Long-term savings (e.g., school theaters with tight budgets).
Low-heat environments (e.g., churches or historic venues).
Color-critical work (e.g., 4K video shoots).
●Stick with Traditional Lekos for:
High-output demands (e.g., stadium tours).
Legacy lens systems (e.g., Broadway rigs with custom gobos).
Final Tip: Test both! Rent an Igracelite LED Leko and a Source Four Traditional for a side-by-side comparison. The right choice depends on your project’s scale, budget, and creative needs.