Battery-powered fixtures offer a versatile solution for professional lighting and beyond, especially in contexts where mobility, quick setup, and freedom from cabling are essential. Thanks to the evolution of LED and lithium battery technology, these devices deliver outstanding photometric performance, long operating times, and, above all, remarkable flexibility of use. In this article, we will revisit the key concepts, examine the technical features of lithium batteries, and present the most representative models distributed by Audio Effetti.
When it comes to battery-powered fixtures, the advantages of wireless systems are once again confirmed, regardless of their application:
- Total mobility: no need for power supply cabling; and for models equipped with wireless DMX (the vast majority), completely cable-free operation, including control.
- Fast installation: ideal for temporary events or venues where cabling is difficult, making setup much quicker.
- Aesthetics: the absence of visible power cables makes them perfect for elegant, refined environments particularly in architectural settings, where control systems and fixture synchronization are not always required, eliminating the need for DMX cabling.
Many of these fixtures are waterproof, or at least weather-protected, and therefore suitable for outdoor use.
Because of these characteristics, battery-powered fixtures are particularly valued in trade shows, presentations, weddings, artistic and museum installations, theatres, galleries, and in all situations where discretion is essential.
Batteries: the key element for extended performance and efficiency
The batteries used in professional fixtures, such as those distributed by Audio Effetti, are almost exclusively lithium-ion a technology that has revolutionized the electronics industry for years. Their ability to store large amounts of energy in a compact volume makes fixtures lighter and easier to handle without compromising autonomy, a crucial factor where mobility and ease of transport are required. Another advantage is their ability to maintain consistent performance even after numerous recharge cycles.
They also feature low self-discharge, meaning they retain their charge even when unused for long periodsb an important characteristic in professional applications where readiness is vital. Some fixtures are designed for hybrid power operation, allowing them to be used while connected to the mains, even as the battery is recharging (a feature available in most of the models reviewed below). This ensures operational continuity in case of unexpected needs or if charging has been overlooked.
From a design perspective, batteries are often integrated into the base of the fixture, improving stability while protecting them from impact and weather exposure.
In terms of maintenance, a visual inspection every six months is recommended: cleaning, checking for possible damage to the terminals or housing, and verifying cable connections to the battery poles, which should always be stored charged.
Audio Effetti’s most noteworthy models
We begin our review with outdoor battery-powered fixtures such as the EGO Professional 8X10RGBWX4SET and 18X10RGBWX4SET. The first features 8x 10 W RGBW 4-in-1 LEDs, the second 18 of the same type. They are powered by 21 VDC and 36 VDC lithium batteries, respectively. Their output can be adjusted in 6 steps to extend battery life.
Both come in sets of 4 units with a flight case that not only protects and simplifies transport but also recharges the internal batteries.
A truly original product is the JB Systems ACCU DECOLITE IP, which features a top thread allowing optional accessories such as luminous tubes and spheres.
Its distinctive design is also suitable for illuminating bottles or similar objects from below. The built-in 2.6 Ah (~29 Wh) lithium battery recharges in 3 hours and offers an autonomy of around 10 hours in fade mode. Naturally, it also operates on 230 VAC and, when used with wireless DMX, eliminates the need for any type of cable. A similar non-IP65-certified version is also available: the ACCU DECOLITE.
For those seeking a simple yet powerful architectural projector, the evolite Architech 150 BAT is a strong option. This fixture, powered either by mains or batteries, employs 18x 18650 lithium cells (4.2 V / 3.2 Ah each) connected in series/parallel, providing 5–6 hours of autonomy.
Recharge time ranges from 8 to 10 hours, while a rear LCD display shows battery status. It is also equipped with a wireless DMX receiver. Power is supplied at 25.2 VDC 2 A (power supply included).
Another model that has achieved significant commercial success is the Briteq BT-AKKULITE IP MINI. Featuring 4x 10 W RGBWA LEDs, it integrates a 14.8 VDC 5200 mAh lithium battery that provides up to 15 hours of autonomy in fading mode. It can also run directly on mains power, even with a fully depleted battery.
Let’s move on to a selection of indoor models.
Starting with uplighters, several options are available in the Audio Effetti catalogue.
The Boomtone EZ-BOX 4x15W is one of the most powerful in its class. Its internal lithium-ion battery provides an average runtime of 7–8 hours with all LEDs on at full power.
It is also available in a six-piece kit (EZBOX Pack) with a flight case that includes a built-in charger.
From JB Systems, two models stand out: ACCU COLOR-WHITE and ACCU-COMPACT.
The ACCU COLOR-WHITE, also available in black (ACCU COLOR-BLACK), is ideal for mobile applications where mains power or cabling is difficult to access: gardens, historic villas, certain museums, etc. An optional transparent cover makes it usable outdoors (IP54). Its 15.6 Ah (~173 Wh) lithium battery provides about 10 hours of operation, with a 4.5-hour recharge time. It also supports wireless DMX (Wireless Solution compatible), allowing fully cable-free operation. The battery recharges while the unit is running on mains power.
The ACCU-COMPACT is a very compact uplighter featuring 6x 10 W RGBWA LEDs. Its 14.8 VDC 5200 mAh rechargeable battery provides about 4 hours in fade mode or 10 hours in eco mode. Like other JB Systems models, it can operate even with a fully discharged battery when connected to the mains. It also includes a charge indicator.
Changing category, the JB Systems ACCU MINI-PAR 12TC Mk2 is a compact mini PAR with 12 high-power RGB LEDs. Wireless DMX is supported via an optional WTR-DMX dongle. While the manufacturer does not specify detailed battery specs, it does declare runtimes of up to 7 hours at full power on single colours (red, green, or blue), or over 5 hours in full-power fade mode. Recharge time is 3–4 hours. This model is designed primarily for decorative lighting effects and stage use, such as theatre productions.
Finally, two unique products deserve mention: the Briteq BT-AKKUBAR and BT-AKKUPOLE, designed for events such as conferences, weddings, lounges, shops, buffets, and exhibition counters.
The BT-AKKUBAR is battery-powered with integrated wireless DMX, requiring no cabling for clean, fast positioning. High-capacity lithium batteries deliver around 8 hours of autonomy at 100%, with recharging possible during use in about 3 hours. Charging is managed by an internal processor.
The BT-AKKUPOLE LED light column employs high-capacity 288 Wh lithium batteries for extended runtime (>14.5 hours at 100% output). The internal charger is equipped with an IP65 powerCON input/output.
Want to learn more?
Email us at international@audioeffetti.it