Last Updated 5 hours ago
Overview
The Dedolight DLED7-BI Turbo is a 90W-class bi-colour focusing LED using the M-size optical system. It is a compact source for controlled accents, interview lighting, projection and reflected-light work.
Product views: Dedolight California. Select an image to enlarge.
It retains the familiar scale of classic tungsten Dedos while moving to adjustable-white LED output. DT7-series power/controller options distinguish it from the later DTneo-driven DLED7N-BI.
Key specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Source | LED with aspheric focusing optics |
| Power reference | 90W-labelled original Turbo head |
| Colour / white-light range | 2,700–6,500K |
| Native beam | 6–60° |
| Optical accessory family | M |
| Cooling | Active cooling |
| Weight reference | Approx. 1.3kg head; excludes the complete rig |
| Control | Matched external controller; console capability depends on the supplied electronics |
| Working package | Head, fitted optics, support, appropriate power electronics and cables; battery/AC accessories depend on configuration |
Strengths and limitations
Strengths
- Higher output class than the original 40W DLED4.
- Broad native focus and M-size optical accessories.
Limitations
- AC, battery and DMX functions vary by controller.
- Active cooling and separate electronics add package checks.
Practical uses
| Setup | Working approach |
|---|---|
| Narrative edge | Focus to the actor’s working area and flag spill away from the lens. |
| Interview key | Choose a compatible softbox or nearby bounce and meter after fitting it. |
| Projection | Rent the M-size imager and lens with the head, rather than unspecified Dedo accessories. |
Set the head position for the direction and shadow first, then choose focus and accessories for coverage. A sharp gobo or precisely shuttered image needs imaging optics; closing barn doors around a small spot does not create the same optical result.
Output and colour
The original Turbo’s 90W designation is retained here. Do not replace it with the current NEO package’s 80W reference. Neither establishes an exposure equivalent to a tungsten or HMI source without matching colour, beam coverage, distance and modifiers.
For a useful comparison, record colour setting or lamp, dimming level, optic, focus position, distance and illuminated area. Measure after diffusion or reflection when that is the working setup. Wattage, centre intensity and coverage describe different parts of the result.
Power and batteries
The original Turbo heads require their model-specific DT-series electronics. The DLED3-BI uses DT3-BI-BAT or the appropriate DMX package; the DLED7-BI uses DT7-BI AC, battery or DMX variants. Confirm the exact controller before choosing mains or battery operation.
A battery-capable controller is different from a mains-only unit. Order the approved supply, adapter and cable together, matching voltage, connector and discharge capability. A later NEO controller is not an automatic upgrade for a pre-NEO head.
Control, cooling and camera operation
| Control path | Operating notes |
|---|---|
| Local | Intensity and bi-colour adjustment through the matched controller. |
| DMX | Available with the appropriate DMX electronics; do not assume a basic AC or DC package includes it. |
| Cooling/camera | Check fan behaviour after warm-up and test the intended dimming range and shutter. The original Turbo is a separate generation from NEO. |
Cooling reference for this head: Active cooling. Listen to the complete working package, including its controller or ballast, rather than checking only the head.
Modifiers, rigging and the working package
| Item | Compatibility and working notes |
|---|---|
| Accessory family | M-size; check the compatibility list for the actual head and generation. |
| Projection | Compatible DP1/DP2-family M-size imager, projection lens and desired shutter/gobo/iris assembly. |
| Beam control | Model-approved barn doors, light shield ring and wide-angle/parallel-beam attachments. |
| Soft light | Compatible speedring/softbox or a properly supported diffusion/bounce surface. |
Aspheric focusing optics are different from a conventional Fresnel. Check the actual accessory’s compatibility list, locking method and lens choice. A brand name or similar front diameter is not enough to establish fit.
Fit the intended front accessory before choosing the stand position. Check tilt clearance, balance, cable movement and independent support for any external electronics. Use the documented mounting hardware and appropriate secondary retention for the installation.
Alternatives and related fixtures
| Fixture | Reason to compare |
|---|---|
| Dedolight DLED7N-BI NEO | Useful output in a compact M-size package. 80W head in the current California NEO listing; M-size optical system. |
| Dedolight DLED3-BI Turbo | Compact 40W bi-colour source. 40W head; S-size optical system. |
| Dedolight DLHM4-300 | Self-contained mains package with manual dimming. Up to 150W at 24V with approved lamps; M-size optical system. |
Classic Dedolight DLH4: the original low-voltage tungsten alternative with a separate supply. Compare the full power and accessory package, rather than the bare-head price.
What people are saying
Manufacturer and distributor demonstrations
Dedo Weigert / Sean Boyriven: DLED7, the new classic. Manufacturer demonstration of the original Turbo system. View the demonstration.
Videos
Dedo Weigert / Sean Boyriven: DLED7, the new classic. Manufacturer demonstration of the original Turbo system.
Watch the demonstration on YouTube.
Rental and used-fixture checks
- Identify the original DT controller and its mains or battery requirements.
- Inspect head connectors and older cables for heat damage, looseness or undocumented repairs.
- Warm the head, listen for fan noise and check colour during low-level fades.
Confirm availability of service and replacement parts with the relevant supplier before buying older equipment. Check the actual kit contents against the shot: a missing controller, imager, lens or cable can matter more than a low head-only price.
Documentation and specifications
- Dedolight California: Dedolight DLED7-BI Turbo product and package information
- Dedolight manuals, technical sheets and photometric documents
- Dedolight imaging systems and optical size families
- Dedolight manufacturer and dealer contacts
Product photographs: Dedolight California. Published specifications describe the referenced configuration; check the markings and instructions of the actual head, controller and fitted accessories.
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