So I got an A1 a while ago when I was first starting out down this rabbit hole. Recently I saw that the V2 model has replaced the original on amazon.
The V1 uses a cree XPL (not XPL hi) which seems to be a neutral tint somewhat rosy.
The V2 description on amazon just has one sentence added about upgrading the driver and LED with absolutely no details, so I ordered one to find out.
The V2 appears to be using a 6500k SST-20. A very poorly binned one at that, it looks like puke on the lowest mode, I didn’t think a 6500k LED could look so green. On the higher modes it’s a very cool white and presents a much tighter beam than the V1 model, although it’s still a tiny little reflector, so it’s not a thrower.
Here are some beamshot comparisons using 14500s and nimh AAs in both lights. V1 on the left, V2 on the right.
AA low https://i.imgur.com/Jrti0WV.jpg
14500 low https://i.imgur.com/DbkPiZl.jpg
AA Med https://i.imgur.com/smaTjEO.jpg
14500 Med https://i.imgur.com/SZdQeVg.jpg
AA High https://i.imgur.com/qKxDPxm.jpg
14500 High https://i.imgur.com/bzjDmLD.jpg
There’s nothing stating they are using an SST-20 now, but the LED is pretty unique looking, and notorious for being green on low modes. The markings visible on the emitter are just like my other SST-20s. V2 is on the left in these two photos.
These things are a major pain to open up, the retaining ring has stupid little rounded notches that my pliers just slip out of. The ring is in there super tight too. I was able to open my old one up, but not the new model.
I don’t really like the cool white SST-20 very much in the the new one, I’m just going to stick an Energizer L91 in it and leave it in my car.