Astera QuikPunch: a battery-powered LED PAR spot with a Fresnel lens

The new Astera QuikPunch essentially  takes everything that made the QuikSpot a success and scales it up.

Taking cues from the popular 3” lens QuikSpot but scaling up in size, lux output, and beam control, the Astera QuikPunch with its 5” Fresnel lens is billed the first spotlight that takes advantage of the versatile features of an LED PAR combined with the optical quality of a Fresnel in the same wireless fixture.

Engineered to deliver a sharp, high-intensity beam for spotlight applications or a wide, soft wash to light large surfaces, Astera says that QuikPunch maintains clean, single-shadow optical performance without color shift or light spill. Indeed, the company says it is its most energy-efficient spot, with a peak output of 8,000 lux at 3 meters using only 75 Watts, delivering the same punch as a traditional 650 W tungsten Fresnel. 

The built-in battery provides up to 4.5 hours of runtime at full output, and longer operation in reduced-output modes.

Equipped with the well-known Astera Titan LED Engine, RGBMA color science and OutputGain, the new QuikPunch provides a 13º-60º zoom range and outputs an ultra-sharp, easy-to-control footprint. “Its accurate, zero-spill beam is reminiscent of a theatrical PC projector, but can also emulate the traditional, retro look of Tungsten Fresnels when the optional EdgeSoftener filter is added,” says the company, adding that this accessory is especially useful when a frost effect is required for better in-camera wrap, or to slightly soften a cut-off background.

A range of hardware and wireless tools include the new AirlineTrack-compatible TrackSpigot 28/16. It lets users attach both a 28mm pin and a 16mm receiver to QuikPunch's infinitely useful removeable yoke. The TrackPin Compact accessory enables ultra-low rigging height and smooth pan control. FlexCovers are also available to help QuikPunch easily blend in with surroundings. 

There are some neat touches. The TiltMeter is a software-based tool displayed on the fixture's OLED screen. When the Astera button is pressed (not connected to the ChargingPlate), the screen switches to display only the tilt angle, thanks to the built-in accelerometer. Pressing the button again returns the display to standard mode after focusing is complete.

QuikPunch is fully compatible with Astera’s wireless ecosystem, including the AsteraApp, built-in LumenRadio CRMX, UHF, Bluetooth and infrared remote control. It also supports wired 5-pin XLR in/out for wired DMX/RDM. Prepping is streamlined with the ChargingPlate and PrepBox, allowing users to assign DMX addresses, adjust settings, and pair wirelessly in seconds. Up to eight fixtures can be charged, configured, and prepped simultaneously inside a dedicated ChargingCase, minimizing downtime and maximizing efficiency.

Pricing and availability

Annoyingly, pricing and availability are both TBA at the moment. We'll update when we can.

tl;dr

• The QuikPunch features a 5” Fresnel lens, providing a sharp, high-intensity beam for spotlight applications and a wide, soft wash for larger areas, while maintaining clean optical performance without color shift or light spill. 
• It offers a peak output of 8,000 lux at 3 meters with a power consumption of only 75 Watts, making it the most energy-efficient spot in its class, comparable to a traditional 650 W tungsten Fresnel.
• Equipped with the Astera Titan LED Engine, it includes a zoom range of 13º-60º and can produce a zero-spill beam, with an optional EdgeSoftener filter for a softer effect when necessary.
• Fully compatible with Astera’s wireless ecosystem and easy to prep with the ChargingPlate, it can charge and configure up to eight fixtures simultaneously to enhance operational efficiency.