I received a sample from Barry. It sounded like there is some room for adding improvenents at this stage, but it also looks like a pretty much finished light.
What I see:
*3× 18650 parallel
*4x XP-L2, cool
*what I can tell sofar a Narsil driver, at least close.
*USB-C charging, 80% full batteries were charged at 1A, but will need more checks, could be the USB-charger limiting it. While charging, the green switch leds turn red, green when ready (Sofirn used RG-leds)
*reflectors are the same size as the reflectors of the C8F, but 4 of them. The beam looks similar.
*output on 30Q’s : 5300lm at startup, 4900lm at 30 seconds.
*no lanyard attachment point, no tripod mounting hole.
Further testing and teardown later. (Had a go at removing the driver but no luck. It seems glued and even hammering the driver down with a screwdriver in the switch-hole did not work.)
I’m not sure it’s a good move to give similar names to all their flashlights. I’m seeing people buying the SP36 when they wanted the SF36 and vice versa. I actually intended to buy the SP32A and ended buying the SP31 (not a bad light, though) but only noticed my mistake after the package was shipped.
Yes, that is what I thought too. It really feels easier in the hand, but it is still a chunky light. And I think the USB-C charging is a really good move, no other 3×18650 light has that yet. Another good move is XP-L2 leds, that is what despite one battery less, brings the output at Q8 level. The beam is not bad, but there is of course the green/yellow XP-L2 ring at the edge of the hotspot.
I hope for a good price. Like the Q8 it looks like a light to really use and abuse (unlike the ROT66 that I keep being pretty on a shelf), such a light must not cost a fortune.
Wasn’t this originally made with an HXP 50 LED? I tried to get one for quite a while but Sofirn discontinued them. This would be a little more interesting. I would defiantly buy this if it were priced at $40 or so. I would really like to see it with some SST-40’s.
I’ve been very interested in this light ever since it was first mentioned. Slightly slimmer than the Q8 and still a powerhouse.
My Sofirn SP32A has an XP-L2 5350-5700K emitter. Do you think this is the same tint? Cooler? I’m hoping for something in the NW range, but the one I have isn’t excessively cool to my eyes.
I’m curious about the price too. $40 was the initial Q8 price a few years ago and they knew that they’d sell a few thousand right away. This one might not be quite as popular (few are) so I wouldn’t blame them for charging a bit more. Hopefully it’ll be around $50 or less with a group buy. Gotta pay for the built in charger…
I was told in an email from Sofirn that it might be a couple weeks before they’d be available. I’m pretty darn excited! Thanks for posting!
USB charging, Narsil UI, XP-L2 and no battery carrier! Wow I’m definitely getting this.
Can you take a shot of the MCPCB too? Don’t think many people would need to swap the driver that comes with Narsil but plenty of people would be interested in swapping the emitters if they are greenish. Thanks.
I would just like to slice and dice the XP-L2’s, get rid of the weird colors. So yeah, how easy is it to get to the MCPCB and get it out? (As if I’m all that concerned with what’s easy… )
I like it. Always been a fan oe the 3x parallel 18650 (SxS) form factor but I’d really like to see throw numbers with XP-L HI’s before making any decisions.
—
RIP SPC Joey Riley, KIA 11/24/14. Now I am become death, the destroyer of worlds.
I would just like to slice and dice the XP-L2’s, get rid of the weird colors. So yeah, how easy is it to get to the MCPCB and get it out? (As if I’m all that concerned with what’s easy… )
There may be the tricky part: like the Q8, the reflector seems fixed downwards, probably with 2 screws, screw heads behind the driver. So to get to the MCPCB, the driver must be removed first, and I had a first good attempt at that fail. I hope I will get the driver out without demolishing it first.
But before I kill the light I still have to do some testing and that will not be before tomorrow evening.
I already asked for that. Without wanting to start a tint discussion here (history learns that leads to nowhere, too many opinions, so please do not try that, I will not communicate any result of that to Sofirn), I suggested to Barry to check the 4000K 80CRI XP-L2, as sold on Mouser and Digikey. Why? Because it is a very good compromise between output and CRI, and for one reason or another, Cree hit the tint precisely right on that one (I used it in a few lights, and even the yellow-ish ring around the hotspot typical for XP-L2 leds is not dominant on that led).
XP-L HI NW will be nice too for some more throw and better tint than XP-L2.
….but with considerably less output than a XP-L2 HD (lower bin+higher voltage), may dive under 4000 lumen. You forgot to mention that.
You see, every led is a compromise, there is no 1 answer.
Hi Jos. I totally agree with you about the discussion of different tints, leading nowhere. However, since you are in frequent communication to Barry could you please ask if Sofirn has ever considered other brands apart from Cree like Lumileds or Samsung? Maybe they could take a look onto the LH351D 5.000K 70CRI which has very good parameters in comparison to the XP-L2 without having the typical "fried-egg-beam".
I’m sure that Sofirn is aware of other brands and types of leds. But a factor that must not underestimated (so it proves) is availability in China. The Yuji leds for the little C01 were easy because they are made in China, they could simply order them from the Yuji store. It took a few years, but now a few manufacturers are also offering Nichia 219 leds of a few types, apparently there is stock of them in China atm. But finding considerable quantities of specific tints and CRI leds that we ask seems an enormous task, even if it is Cree leds, see the struggle of Texas_Ace to get Lumintop use the right neutral XHP70.2 led for the GT.
Do not get fooled by Kaidomain and Intl-outdoor, who offer specialty leds that appeal to us flashoholics, they learned their ways very well, and can only buy limited quantities of specific leds.
The led that I recommended therefore, is very commonly available from multiple sources so I hope that a chinese manufacturers are able to get their hands on them.
I see, that makes sense. One possible option could be some kind of a "limited special edition" with another LED than usual but I don't intend to interfere into their plans. So far, they are already doing a great job by taking into account opinions and input from BLF/TLF members into their upcoming projects. At least Sofirn could do us a great favour if they refrain from using glue on their new flashlights or at least use only very little of it, so one can still strip down the head for individual choice of LEDs and different drivers.
I already asked for that. Without wanting to start a tint discussion here (history learns that leads to nowhere, too many opinions, so please do not try that, I will not communicate any result of that to Sofirn), I suggested to Barry to check the 4000K 80CRI XP-L2, as sold on Mouser and Digikey. Why? Because it is a very good compromise between output and CRI, and for one reason or another, Cree hit the tint precisely right on that one (I used it in a few lights, and even the yellow-ish ring around the hotspot typical for XP-L2 leds is not dominant on that led).
Yes, I agree with you. And you did a great choice. Warmer LEDs are better for the new all-over-phosphor LEDs.
And as you can see in on of the latest polls, something between NW and WW is the best for the most people. http://budgetlightforum.com/node/62854
4000K 80CRI was even verry good on the XHP70.2 with verry low Vf.
I already asked for that. Without wanting to start a tint discussion here (history learns that leads to nowhere, too many opinions, so please do not try that, I will not communicate any result of that to Sofirn), I suggested to Barry to check the 4000K 80CRI XP-L2, as sold on Mouser and Digikey. Why? Because it is a very good compromise between output and CRI, and for one reason or another, Cree hit the tint precisely right on that one (I used it in a few lights, and even the yellow-ish ring around the hotspot typical for XP-L2 leds is not dominant on that led).
I have a D4vn with the XP-L2 4000k 80CRI from Mouser and the tint is pretty good. With clear optics, there is just very slight yellow corona with mostly rosy hotspot. With frosted optics, looks like it is either on the BBL or just slightly above. It is not as rosy as the 5A and 5D XP-L HI or XP-G2 that I tried but not bad for a non tint binned emitter.
How does the Mouser one compare with Digikey? If possible, I would love to buy 5A or 5D tinted versions of the XP-L2 80CRI.
I love 3×18650 parallel lights after purchasing the r0t66. I think this light will be a huge winner if they just put the same xpl hi as they did in the sofirn q8 for more throw!
If I wanted a brighter floodier beam, I can just pick up the rot66.
I like how they (Sofirn) got rid of the vertical line/groove going thru the bands of knurling, I suggested that in the Sofirn Q8 thread, a little late as it were, but they must have been listening which is very COOL and looks to me much more refined/cleaner, nice job Sofirn, please keep listening!
I won’t have to index the tube like I did on the SQ8 BUTNOW….
I am Quite bummed out though at the use of the XP-L2 only?…would of liked the option of the XP-L HI too, since the SQ8 came out with the XP-L HI’s, you would think it should/could be an option?
I’ll have to pass on this one…
I love 3×18650 parallel lights after purchasing the r0t66. I think this light will be a huge winner if they just put the same xpl hi as they did in the sofirn q8 for more throw!
If I wanted a brighter floodier beam, I can just pick up the rot66.
The ROT66 is way floodier than the SP36 with XP-L2 leds.
I received a sample from Barry. It sounded like there is some room for adding improvenents at this stage, but it also looks like a pretty much finished light.
What I see:
*3× 18650 parallel
*4x XP-L2, cool
*what I can tell sofar a Narsil driver, at least close.
*USB-C charging, 80% full batteries were charged at 1A, but will need more checks, could be the USB-charger limiting it. While charging, the green switch leds turn red, green when ready (Sofirn used RG-leds)
*reflectors are the same size as the reflectors of the C8F, but 4 of them. The beam looks similar.
*output on 30Q’s : 5300lm at startup, 4900lm at 30 seconds.
*no lanyard attachment point, no tripod mounting hole.
Further testing and teardown later. (Had a go at removing the driver but no luck. It seems glued and even hammering the driver down with a screwdriver in the switch-hole did not work.)
link to djozz tests
Nice! A reduced size Q8!
I’m not sure it’s a good move to give similar names to all their flashlights. I’m seeing people buying the SP36 when they wanted the SF36 and vice versa. I actually intended to buy the SP32A and ended buying the SP31 (not a bad light, though) but only noticed my mistake after the package was shipped.
Yes, that is what I thought too. It really feels easier in the hand, but it is still a chunky light. And I think the USB-C charging is a really good move, no other 3×18650 light has that yet. Another good move is XP-L2 leds, that is what despite one battery less, brings the output at Q8 level. The beam is not bad, but there is of course the green/yellow XP-L2 ring at the edge of the hotspot.
I hope for a good price. Like the Q8 it looks like a light to really use and abuse (unlike the ROT66 that I keep being pretty on a shelf), such a light must not cost a fortune.
link to djozz tests
Wasn’t this originally made with an HXP 50 LED? I tried to get one for quite a while but Sofirn discontinued them. This would be a little more interesting. I would defiantly buy this if it were priced at $40 or so. I would really like to see it with some SST-40’s.
I’ve been very interested in this light ever since it was first mentioned. Slightly slimmer than the Q8 and still a powerhouse.
My Sofirn SP32A has an XP-L2 5350-5700K emitter. Do you think this is the same tint? Cooler? I’m hoping for something in the NW range, but the one I have isn’t excessively cool to my eyes.
I’m curious about the price too. $40 was the initial Q8 price a few years ago and they knew that they’d sell a few thousand right away. This one might not be quite as popular (few are) so I wouldn’t blame them for charging a bit more. Hopefully it’ll be around $50 or less with a group buy. Gotta pay for the built in charger…
I was told in an email from Sofirn that it might be a couple weeks before they’d be available. I’m pretty darn excited! Thanks for posting!
I had also heard rumor of an XHP70.2 emitter. I wonder how that would work…
USB charging, Narsil UI, XP-L2 and no battery carrier! Wow I’m definitely getting this.
Can you take a shot of the MCPCB too? Don’t think many people would need to swap the driver that comes with Narsil but plenty of people would be interested in swapping the emitters if they are greenish. Thanks.
To be clear, Sofirn told me that this wasn’t accurate.
I would just like to slice and dice the XP-L2’s, get rid of the weird colors. So yeah, how easy is it to get to the MCPCB and get it out? (As if I’m all that concerned with what’s easy…
)
I like it. Always been a fan oe the 3x parallel 18650 (SxS) form factor but I’d really like to see throw numbers with XP-L HI’s before making any decisions.
RIP SPC Joey Riley, KIA 11/24/14. Now I am become death, the destroyer of worlds.
There may be the tricky part: like the Q8, the reflector seems fixed downwards, probably with 2 screws, screw heads behind the driver. So to get to the MCPCB, the driver must be removed first, and I had a first good attempt at that fail. I hope I will get the driver out without demolishing it first.
But before I kill the light I still have to do some testing and that will not be before tomorrow evening.
link to djozz tests
The design looks pretty familiar to the Sofirn SF11:
https://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/Powerful-LED-flashlight-Cree-XP...
I hope for NW or WW.
I already asked for that. Without wanting to start a tint discussion here (history learns that leads to nowhere, too many opinions, so please do not try that, I will not communicate any result of that to Sofirn), I suggested to Barry to check the 4000K 80CRI XP-L2, as sold on Mouser and Digikey. Why? Because it is a very good compromise between output and CRI, and for one reason or another, Cree hit the tint precisely right on that one (I used it in a few lights, and even the yellow-ish ring around the hotspot typical for XP-L2 leds is not dominant on that led).
link to djozz tests
XP-L HI NW will be nice too for some more throw and better tint than XP-L2.
….but with considerably less output than a XP-L2 HD (lower bin+higher voltage), may dive under 4000 lumen. You forgot to mention that.
You see, every led is a compromise, there is no 1 answer.
link to djozz tests
Hi Jos. I totally agree with you about the discussion of different tints, leading nowhere. However, since you are in frequent communication to Barry could you please ask if Sofirn has ever considered other brands apart from Cree like Lumileds or Samsung? Maybe they could take a look onto the LH351D 5.000K 70CRI which has very good parameters in comparison to the XP-L2 without having the typical "fried-egg-beam".
I’m sure that Sofirn is aware of other brands and types of leds. But a factor that must not underestimated (so it proves) is availability in China. The Yuji leds for the little C01 were easy because they are made in China, they could simply order them from the Yuji store. It took a few years, but now a few manufacturers are also offering Nichia 219 leds of a few types, apparently there is stock of them in China atm. But finding considerable quantities of specific tints and CRI leds that we ask seems an enormous task, even if it is Cree leds, see the struggle of Texas_Ace to get Lumintop use the right neutral XHP70.2 led for the GT.
Do not get fooled by Kaidomain and Intl-outdoor, who offer specialty leds that appeal to us flashoholics, they learned their ways very well, and can only buy limited quantities of specific leds.
The led that I recommended therefore, is very commonly available from multiple sources so I hope that a chinese manufacturers are able to get their hands on them.
link to djozz tests
I see, that makes sense. One possible option could be some kind of a "limited special edition" with another LED than usual but I don't intend to interfere into their plans. So far, they are already doing a great job by taking into account opinions and input from BLF/TLF members into their upcoming projects. At least Sofirn could do us a great favour if they refrain from using glue on their new flashlights or at least use only very little of it, so one can still strip down the head for individual choice of LEDs and different drivers.
Yes, I agree with you. And you did a great choice. Warmer LEDs are better for the new all-over-phosphor LEDs.
And as you can see in on of the latest polls, something between NW and WW is the best for the most people. http://budgetlightforum.com/node/62854
4000K 80CRI was even verry good on the XHP70.2 with verry low Vf.
I have a D4vn with the XP-L2 4000k 80CRI from Mouser and the tint is pretty good. With clear optics, there is just very slight yellow corona with mostly rosy hotspot. With frosted optics, looks like it is either on the BBL or just slightly above. It is not as rosy as the 5A and 5D XP-L HI or XP-G2 that I tried but not bad for a non tint binned emitter.
How does the Mouser one compare with Digikey? If possible, I would love to buy 5A or 5D tinted versions of the XP-L2 80CRI.
Most of this new lights are too buggy to buy them with glued components, so a no go for me.
BLF Q8 Janus --- Emisar D4 RGBW --- Green Lantern and HAL 9000
6th Annual Light Contest Entry --- 7th Annual Light Contest Entry
Does Sofirn glue other drivers? I’ve got three and each uses a threaded retaining ring.
I love 3×18650 parallel lights after purchasing the r0t66. I think this light will be a huge winner if they just put the same xpl hi as they did in the sofirn q8 for more throw!
If I wanted a brighter floodier beam, I can just pick up the rot66.
I like how they (Sofirn) got rid of the vertical line/groove going thru the bands of knurling, I suggested that in the Sofirn Q8 thread, a little late as it were, but they must have been listening which is very COOL and looks to me much more refined/cleaner, nice job Sofirn, please keep listening!
KB1428 “Live Life WOT”
Pass Kawi? What? And here I have these 8 XP-L HI’s all bagged up for you…
I’m pretty sure the SP32a v2 has a glued driver. The bezel was glued too.
The ROT66 is way floodier than the SP36 with XP-L2 leds.
link to djozz tests
Djozz you are a bad seller, I want the right light.
Can we have a lanyard hole in the head?
Like the acebeam k30?
It would be also nice on the Q8 lamps
I like also this slanted cooling fins.
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