Nanlite PavoSlim 360C: A 4x2 RGBWW Soft Panel for Production Lighting

A 4x2 RGBWW soft panel with 370W output that weighs under 13 lbs. That’s a bold claim, but Nanlite’s new PavoSlim 360C is making it, positioning itself squarely against established players in the high-output, large-format soft light market. For us operators, gaffers, and DPs constantly evaluating gear, the proof is always in the on-set performance, but the spec sheet on this new panel certainly warrants a close look.

Nanlite has been steadily expanding its PavoSlim line, and the 360C is their answer to the demand for bigger, brighter, yet still portable, soft light sources. Forget the old school 4x4 or 8x8 frames that took a union crew and 20 minutes to set up. We’re in an era where speed and versatility dictate what actually makes it into the truck. The 360C targets this exact niche, aiming to provide significant punch and color accuracy in a form factor that won't require a dedicated lighting gang just to move it.

Design Philosophy and Practicality for Cinematographers

When a manufacturer builds a large diffusion source, one of the first things I look at is the mechanical design. How rugged is it going to be under real-world conditions? Is it going to sag? Will the yolk hold its position with even a bit of wind or vibration? Nanlite states the PavoSlim 360C uses a magnesium alloy construction, which contributes to its reported 5.73 kg (12.63 lb) weight for the fixture body itself. For a 4-foot by 2-foot panel delivering 370W, that’s genuinely lightweight. Getting a powerful, 4x2 source up on a medium stand, or even rigged overhead, becomes a far simpler proposition when the fixture itself isn’t a battle.

The "ultra-slim" profile, cited at just 1.96 cm (0.77 in), is another crucial aspect for tight locations or when trying to conceal a light source discreetly. When you’re rigging lights into practicals or between furniture, every millimeter counts. This slim design, coupled with its relatively low weight, should make it a strong contender for car interiors, reflections on glossy surfaces, or for tucking into corners where traditional hard-body fixtures simply won’t fit. The provided pop-up softbox and universal holder with a 5/8" baby pin also suggest a focus on rapid deployment, which is critical on demanding sets. Nobody wants to spend an hour assembling a softbox that was supposed to be a quick fill.

But beyond the mere mechanics, the operational design is equally important. Nanlite has integrated a wide range of control options, including onboard, remote controller, NANLINK 2.0 App, DMX/RDM, and LumenRadio CRMX. For any professional set, DMX and CRMX are non-negotiable for integration into larger lighting rigs, especially for live-action or complex sequences where precise control and cues are paramount. The inclusion of wireless DMX (CRMX) out of the box is a big win, removing another cable from the equation and saving time on rigging.

Output, Color Science, and Effects

Let’s talk numbers, because that’s where the rubber meets the road for a key or fill light. The PavoSlim 360C boasts a 370W output, delivering 27,060 lux at 1 meter (at 5600K). To put that into perspective, that’s a substantial amount of light from a 4x2 soft source. It positions the 360C as capable of more than just a subtle eye light or background wash. This kind of output means it can realistically act as a primary soft key even in moderate ambient conditions, or provide significant fill across a wider area.

The color rendition claims are equally important: CRI/TLCI average 96/97, and TM-30 Rf/Rg average 94/100. These are impressive figures and suggest a commitment to accurate color, which is absolutely essential when shooting for broadcast or theatrical release. Off-color lights are a nightmare in post, leading to endless color correction work. The wide CCT range from 2,400K to 12,000K, coupled with ±150 green/magenta adjustment, offers tremendous flexibility in matching existing practicals, balancing with natural light sources, or creating specific color moods without resorting to gels. The more precisely you can dial in your color temperature and green/magenta shift on set, the less you’re relying on the already overburdened colorist down the line.

The five lighting modes (CCT, HSI, RGBW, Gel, and Effect) cover all bases for creative and technical applications. The Gel mode, with 460 pre-loaded gels, is particularly handy for quickly emulating traditional theatrical or cinematic looks without having to buy, cut, and mount physical gels. And the 15 special effects, with adjustable parameters, are standard fare these days, but useful for things like police lights, flickering candles, or a lightning storm. While often seen as "gimmicks" by some DPs, these effects, when used subtly and thoughtfully, can save significant time on set and contribute to the believability of a scene.

Powering Options and On-Set Realities

A light is only as good as its power source, especially on location. The PavoSlim 360C offers AC power, DC power, or V-mount battery options. This is a critical feature. Being able to run a 370W RGBWW panel off V-mount batteries immediately enhances its versatility. Imagine needing a powerful soft fill for a tracking shot in a remote location, or a quick setup in an area without easy access to mains power. While a 370W draw will certainly eat through V-mounts quickly (you'd likely need two high-capacity packs, probably 150Wh-200Wh each, for any meaningful run time), the option is invaluable. This adaptability minimizes the need for generators or long cable runs, streamlining the setup and breakdown process.

The Competitive Landscape

Nanlite is not operating in a vacuum here. Companies like Aputure, Arri, Litepanels, and Creamsource all have powerful, large-format soft lights. What Nanlite seems to be aiming for is a strong balance of output, color fidelity, portability, and price. At $2,490 USD, excluding local taxes, the PavoSlim 360C falls into a mid-range price point for a professional-grade 4x2 RGBWW panel with these specs. It’s significantly more accessible than some high-end options, while offering comparable performance on paper to panels that may cost twice as much or more. This makes it particularly attractive for owner-operators, independent productions, or rental houses looking to expand their inventory without breaking the bank.

For years, many of us relied on large LED mat systems that while flexible, often required external ballasts, complex rigging, and manual diffusion. Nanlite's integrated approach, combining high output LEDs directly into a slim, sturdy panel, simplifies the gaffer's toolkit. It’s a progression from the days when you needed a full-sized frame and cloth for even a moderately soft source. Now, you can get a beautiful wrap-around quality directly from the fixture, meaning less gear to haul and fewer points of failure.

Historically, Chinese manufacturers like Nanlite have been under scrutiny for build quality or color accuracy compared to established Western brands. However, in recent years, companies like Nanlite have made significant strides, delivering products that meet professional standards at competitive prices. The PavoSlim 360C seems to continue this trend, with its robust material claims and high CRI/TLCI numbers. It suggests a maturing market where technical excellence is no longer exclusive to the most expensive gear.

Conclusion

The Nanlite PavoSlim 360C looks like more than just another LED panel. It’s a carefully considered tool designed for the modern set, prioritizing output, accurate color, and extreme portability. For DPs and gaffers who prioritize speed and efficiency without compromising light quality, this 4x2 RGBWW soft panel warrants serious consideration. It's a sign of where production lighting is heading: more power in smaller, lighter, and more versatile packages. How it stands up to the rigors of daily production life, and its longevity compared to its more expensive counterparts, will be the ultimate test, but on paper, it's a compelling option. In an industry where efficiency drives both creative possibilities and budget realities, tools like the PavoSlim 360C are reshaping how we approach lighting workflows from pre-production through to the wrap.

- For further reading on refining your cinematic craft, explore topics like Color Grading Mastery: From Technical Foundations to Creative Excellence.