Creamsource has expanded its Vortex family of fixtures by announcing the Vortex8 Soft (V8S), Vortex4 Soft (V4S), and Vortex24 RRGBBW high output panels.
If you want sheer brute force then the Vortex24 RGBW has you covered. This 1950W fixture and a 20° beam angle that can pump out 27,560lux @ 3m. It essentially has 3x the output of the Vortex8.
The Vortex8 Soft (V8S) and Vortex4 Soft (V4S) were optimized for maximum efficiency and performance if you are looking for a native soft light solution with plenty of output.
All three new fixtures utilize CreamOS which allow for straightforward control and seamless incorporation into existing lighting setups.
The Vortex Ecosystem is a full suite of solutions that were designed to integrate seamlessly. With the LNX mounting system and versatile multi yokes like the 2Up and 3Up, an IP65-rated weatherproof design and a 5-year warranty they can be used for a wide array of lighting requirements.
I reviewed the Vortex8 on the site back in September 2021 and you can see that review here.
Vortex8 Soft & Vortex4 Soft panels
The Vortex8 Soft and Vortex4 Soft panels look to be good solutions if you are looking for high output soft panel lights that are built like a tank and designed for the rigors of set life.
Let’s have a look at some of the key features:
High Output Soft Light: Dedicated soft light source that marries efficiency with 650W (V8S) or 325W (V4S) of output, allowing for both flat panel diffuser and open-face configurations.
Customisable Arrays: Vortex Softs can be mixed with Vortex8 and Vortex4 hard panels – using LNX, Creamsource Multi Yokes, and other mounting systems – to create scalable and diverse arrays, such as checkerboard Creamsource Hard/Soft patterns, for on-the-fly virtual focus adjustment.
Balanced Lighting: This mix-and-match capability enables a fine balance between intensity and softness, enhancing dynamic controls to achieve the desired lighting effect for any scene.
Versatile Use Cases: Suitable for various applications including space-constrained studio work or for outdoor broadcasts and news. A 48V DC power input means you can pull the plug and go battery powered when on location, and an IP65 rating ensures you’ll stay lit even when the storms roll in.
CreamOS Integration: Shares CreamOS with other Vortex products, enabling consistent control and easy integration into existing lighting rigs.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Photometrics V4S 
Photometrics V4S 
Photometrics V8S 
Photometrics V8S
- Photometrics V8S: 58,200 lumens. 2,340lux @ 3m (5600K, Open Face)
- Photometrics V4S: 29,100 lumens. 1,180lux @ 3m (5600K, Open Face)
- Beam Angle: 110° (Half Peak Angle)
- Light Source: RRGBBW (red+deep red, green, blue+royal blue, white)
Vortex24
The Vortex24, developed in response to customer feedback for a larger, punchy lighting solution, and it maintains the high-quality standards synonymous with the Vortex8 while offering triple the output and greater coverage. This larger form factor simplifies rigging and reduces the need for multiple units when rigging to an Elevated Work Platform (EWP) or Condor, while offering the power and precision needed for intricate image-based lighting scenarios.
Let’s have a look at some of the key features of the fixture:
Pixel Precision: Features 24 directional pixel zones for nuanced lighting effects, allowing complex simulations like fire and motion with smooth dimming across all intensities, all while maintaining colour accuracy and preventing drift.
Powerfully Efficient: Draws 1950W power, suitable for standard circuits and includes a ‘House Power’ setting for 15A circuit operation.
Compact Design: Built-in ballast facilitating easier storage on carts and integration into truck packages.
Networking Simplicity: Equipped with dual Ethernet ports with a built-in Gigabit switch, enabling single-cable runs and daisy-chaining of units for efficient light array management and simpler control with protocols like sACN.
Quick Adjustments: The Vortex24 enables swift swaps of diffusers and accessories with a front latch system and includes a medium flat diffuser for immediate light softening, enhancing setup versatility without the need for extra purchases.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
- Photometrics: 90,000lumens. 27,560lux @ 3m (5600K, Naked)
- Beam Angle: 20° (Half Peak Angle)
- Weight & Size: 53.5kg / 117.9lb, 1333 x 971 x 258mm / 52.5” x 38.2” x 10.2” (including yoke)
- Light Source: RRGBBW (red+deep red, green, blue+royal blue, white)
Pricing & Availability
The Vortex24 and Vortex Softs are available for pre-order and they are expected to start shipping in the middle of the year.
- Vortex8 Soft: $4,499 USD
- Vortex4 Soft: $2,299 USD
- Vortex24: $16,499 USD
