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Two and a Half Decades of Source Four from ETC

At American light producer ETC in November 2017, all lights were equipped with Source Four, as the Spotlight Series marked its 25th anniversary.

Twenty-five years of Source Four lighting equipment from ETC
Twenty-five years of Source Four lighting equipment from ETC

Two and a Half Decades of Source Four from ETC

## A Revolutionary Leap in Theater Lighting: The Source Four by ETC

In the world of stage lighting, the **Source Four** by Electronic Theatre Controls (ETC) has made a significant impact, becoming a staple in theaters, concert halls, and performance venues across the globe. This innovative fixture, introduced in 1992, is renowned for its superior optical performance and durability, setting new standards for theater lighting.

The inception of the Source Four was a result of ETC's commitment to improving lighting technology, a company that was founded on Christmas Eve 1975 by Fred Foster, Bill Foster, James Bradley, and Gary Bewick. ETC's journey in the lighting industry began with the acquisition of LMI in 1990, which paved the way for the integration of dimming systems, leading to the development of the Source Four.

### A Design Revolution

The Source Four's design is characterized by its patented High-Pressure Sodium (HPL) lights and faceted dichrotic reflector. These features provide optimal light transmission and control, allowing for precise beam control and making it ideal for highlighting performers or specific areas on stage. The fixture's versatility is further enhanced by the introduction of various lens options, which enable users to adjust the beam angle from narrow to wide, catering to different lighting needs.

### A Game-Changer in the Industry

The Source Four has had a profound impact on the lighting industry, setting a new standard for theater lighting fixtures. Its versatility, reliability, and optical quality made it a favorite among lighting designers and technicians. The fixture's success contributed significantly to ETC's growth and reputation in the industry, positioning the company as a leader in lighting technology.

Key contributions of the Source Four include its adoption and longevity, influence on design trends, and role in establishing industry standards. Its longevity is a testament to its design and manufacturing quality, while its design has influenced subsequent lighting products. The Source Four has also played a role in establishing quality standards for theatrical lighting, encouraging innovation and improvement in lighting technology.

### Evolution and Expansion

Over the years, the Source Four family has expanded to include variants such as the Source Four Mini, Source Four Zoom, and Source Four Fresnel. The Source Four Zoom, for instance, allows for uncomplicated operation with one hand, enabling technicians to focus with one hand and make adjustments with the other.

In recent years, ETC has also introduced the Source Four LED series, which boasts a broad color palette that competes with LED lighting solutions from the competition. The Source Four LED and Source Four HID create a clean, white beam for convincing projection quality.

### A Lasting Legacy

Today, ETC is a globally operating company with over 1,000 employees in 10 countries. The company's first spotlight, the Mega Cue, paved the way for the development of the Source Four, a fixture that has left a lasting legacy in the lighting industry. The Source Four's innovation and impact continue to influence lighting practices today, making it a shining example of technological advancement in the field of stage lighting.

Incorporating the mentioned words, here are the 2 sentences:

  1. For those passionately interested in updating their home-and-garden, or setting up the perfect home theater, the Source Four by ETC could be an exciting addition to their lifestyle, as it offers superior technology in theater lighting.
  2. Alongside their gadgets and latest technology devices, lighting aficionados might appreciate the Source Four LED series by ETC, boasting a broad color palette that creates a pristine, white beam for convincing projection quality.

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