Alzo vs. CoolLights.biz
 

I need to put together a simple interview kit and decided to stray from the Lowel Dv Kit for a fluorescent setup...I think I've got my decision down to the Alzo 800's and CoolLights.

I like the alzo because the softboxes and barn doors resemble more what I'm used to working with and seem to be manufactured a bit better, however after seeing some test shots the light seems pretty soft even with just the bulb.

The CoolLights are a new concept for me, however I like the idea of seperate power switches for more control, and the temperature is at 5600k (vs. Alzo 5300k). Plus the DIY method might be a fun project the more I think about it!

Anyone had experience with similar setups, or any reccomendations for a good hard light to incorporate with the setup?

The Alzo800 looks like it would make a nice hard backlight to go with the big Coollights.

If I could do it all over with what I know now, I would get two hard lights with barn doors like the Alzo 800 and two Coollights soft fixtures with at least 4x55w bulbs. I would also get grids for the soft lights. I would also get a couple of reflectors for fill and some flags.

Do you think the slight temperature difference would be a big deal?

Sorry Mike I was out of town today but I already answered your email. I'll give the answer here too though. I doubt that you'll notice the difference but if you do it should be easily corrected.

If you're interested in DIY, we have the CL-655PB which comes with everything but bulb and ballasts. Just supply your own, wire the ballasts in with the supplied wires and you're ready to go with a 6 x 55 watt unit. Otherwise there are lots of other DIY projects you can do with compact fluorescents.