Hands-On Review: The Compact and Colorful Nanlite Forza 60C

0Share

The Forza 60C adds a splash of color to Nanlite’s ever-evolving lineup of LEDs for filmmakers and photographers. Standing out for its six-color RGBLAC design, the 60C boasts a wide 1800-20000K CCT range and practically limitless spectrum of bright, saturated colors. It completes the 60-series trifecta joining the 60 (daylight) and 60B (bi-color) models. I found this compact spotlight shines brightest as a colorful accent light but it can also cover larger areas in a pinch when paired with an umbrella or softbox.

 The Forza 60C produces vivid blasts of color.
The Forza 60C produces vivid blasts of color.

Six-Color Mixing Technology

In an LED market saturated with RGBWW lights, Nanlite chose an RGBLAC design for the 60C. By including lime (L), amber (A), and cyan (C) LED chips, its CCT range extends well beyond what would be possible with an RGBWW design. For comparison, Nanlite’s PavoTube II RGBWW has a CCT range of 2700-12000K versus the 60C’s 1800-20000K. Green/Magenta adjustment is possible for further tweaking in CCT mode. At 5600K, it can generate up to 12,810 lux at 1 meter. For technical readers, Nanlite advertises a CRI rating of 96, TLCI of 95, TM30 Rf of 94, and TM30 Rg of 100. For subjective readers, I found the light it created to be consistently bright and saturated across its range. The 60C features a chip on board (COB) design and sends its light through a diffused glass front, which can then be paired with an included reflector to achieve a 45-degree spot.

Light is sent through a diffused glass surface en route to its destination.
Light is sent through a diffused glass surface en route to its destination.

Compact and Portable

Like its forerunners in the 60-series, the 60C is a balance of size and power. It weighs only 1.8 lb so you can mount it in places heavier lights would not work, take it on the road without breaking your back, and even handhold it for extended periods when you need to. It draws 88W of power, which can be delivered by AC adapter or an included NP-F battery grip (batteries not included). You can keep track of battery life on the side of the grip via three lights. The grip can also be mounted on a light stand, condensing light and power to a single mount. Retractable feet are also built into the grip, which permit floor or tabletop positioning, a thoughtful addition for when you don’t want to carry a stand. A V-Mount grip is also available separately.

Little feet can be used on the battery grip to balance the light on a flat surface without needing a stand.
Little feet can be used on the battery grip to balance the light on a flat surface without needing a stand.

The 60C’s housing and yoke felt reassuring and built to last. It uses the same 2-knob and LCD rear interface as the 60 and 60B. While the menu system is easy to get the hang of, the quality of the buttons and knobs could be improved to match the housing for a light at this price point. Its fan is quiet but can be completely switched off, either on-unit or remotely when absolute silence is necessary.

Remote Control with the NANLINK app

Like its predecessors, the 60C is compatible with the NANLINK app over Bluetooth. In addition to providing the ability to control multiple lights remotely at the same time, using the app unlocks a handful of additional features and refinements. In general, I found the app faster and easier to use than the rear interface of the light. All the modes available on the unit itself are accessible through the app including CCT, HSI, and EFFECT. Additionally, precise X-Y coordinates can be selected in 0.0001 increments for creating and repeating specific colors. When using the app in HSI mode, you can color-match the 60C’s output using your smartphone’s camera to measure hue and saturation. It also includes fifteen built-in effects ranging from simulating fireworks to disco lighting. Although you can adjust the effects on the light itself, I found the app to be much easier for this purpose.  

The NANLINK app allows you to sample colors using your smartphone and refine effects using a single screen.

One odd setting in the app is an RGBW mode, presumably left over from Nanlite’s other color models. Considering the expanded reach of the RGBLAC design, the app would benefit from a dedicated mode. Per Nanlite, a Gel Mode will be available via a firmware update to capitalize further on the 60C’s impressive color range by the end of the year. Remote control is also possible via DMX and the NANLINK transmitter box.  

What Else is in the Kit?

The 60C is compatible with the separately available FM-Mount light-shaping tools, including the Forza 60 softbox, Fresnel Lens, and Projector Mount. As mentioned above, the kit comes with a 45-degree reflector. A Bowens mount adapter is also included, greatly expanding the compatibility of the light to include modifiers using the common mount. An umbrella holder is also incorporated into the adapter’s design. As useful as such an adapter should prove for shaping the 60C’s output, I found its plastic build and overall quality to be lacking. A light is only as secure as its mount; this is an accessory that needs to match the durability of the light itself.

The 60C is easy to use handheld for extended periods, even with batteries attached.
The 60C is easy to use handheld for extended periods, even with batteries attached.

Finally, the kit comes with a padded carrying bag for transport and storage. With so many lighting brands skipping this crucial accessory, I appreciate both the inclusion and robust design of the case. 

A padded carrying case is included to protect and store.
A padded carrying case is included to protect and store.

Parting Thoughts

The 60C is an appealing addition to the Nanlite ecosystem for filmmakers and photographers looking to add a sharp burst of color to their lighting designs. This is a somewhat niche light that is built around precision in terms of color and falloff. While it excels as a colorful accent light, for larger applications, I would wait for Nanlite to extend its color option to the larger models in the Forza lineup. As a handholdable, color LED, the 60C is a solid option for use in and out of the studio.

Have you tried Nanlite’s Forza 60C? Share your experiences in the Comments section, below!

0 Comments