REVIEWED: CHAUVET DJ Freedom Flex x4
The Ultimate Party Lighting Solution
When it comes to setting the right atmosphere for an event, lighting can make all the difference. Whether you're hosting a live show, a party or even a corporate event, the right lighting can transform a space, creating mood, energy and excitement. That's where the CHAUVET DJ Freedom Flex Stick X4 comes in – a versatile and highly portable LED lighting solution designed to take your event lighting to the next level. After spending some time with these innovative lighting sticks, I’m ready to share my thoughts on what makes them stand out.
Design and Build Quality
First impressions matter, and the CHAUVET DJ Freedom Flex Stick X4 does not disappoint. The design is sleek, modern and incredibly functional. Each stick features a robust yet lightweight build, making it easy to move and position wherever you need it. At a glance, the sticks look similar to lighting units of this genre, but what sets them apart is the solid build quality and I always appreciate a tool-free design.
One of the biggest challenges with traditional lighting fixtures is the cumbersome nature of dealing with cords, power cables and the constant need to plug things in. The Freedom Flex Stick completely eliminates this hassle with its removable batteries. This feature not only makes charging easy but also allows for quick changes, making these lights a perfect choice for anyone who needs lighting that can be set up quickly and packed down just as fast.
The Pelican-style case that comes with the Freedom Flex Sticks is another huge win. The case is heavy-duty, ensuring that the sticks are protected during transport. The custom-moulded interior keeps each stick securely in place, which means no risk of damage or misplacement as you move between events. As someone who frequently takes gear on the road, I appreciate the peace of mind this case provides, and the two case wheels were a great help, too.
Versatile Lighting Options
When it comes to performance, the Freedom Flex Stick X4 does not disappoint. Each stick houses 92 quad-colour LEDs (RGB+WW), which means you get vibrant, full-spectrum colour mixing.
These LEDs offer excellent brightness and colour depth, making them ideal for everything from intimate parties to large-scale events. The ability to create vivid, dynamic lighting effects is a major selling point for these sticks, and they truly shine when it comes to flexibility.
The sticks come with slip-on white sleeves, which allow for two completely different looks. This means that with a simple change of the sleeve, you can completely alter the visual effect of the lights, giving you two distinct styles for different parts of an event.
For example, you might want a bright, white light for a formal dinner or presentation, and then switch to a more colourful, party vibe as the night progresses. The ease of this change is a small feature, but it goes a long way in adding versatility to the product.
For those looking to create an even bigger impact, the Freedom Flex Sticks allow you to link up to three sticks together to create a powerful ‘runway’ effect. This is perfect for fashion shows, live performances or events that require a grand visual statement. The ability to connect multiple units opens up creative possibilities that you simply don’t get with traditional fixed lighting setups. Whether you're lighting a long pathway or creating a dramatic stage effect, these sticks can rise to the occasion.
Wireless and Easy-to-Control
One of the standout features of the Freedom Flex Sticks is its flexibility when it comes to control options. The lights can be controlled in a variety of ways, allowing them to fit seamlessly into different event setups.
For users who prefer more traditional setups, the lights support Wireless (Via the built in D-Fi Transceiver) or Wired DMX Control. This gives users complete control over their lighting effects, allowing for precise adjustments.
For those who want to go fully wireless, the sticks also support wireless master/slave operation, making it easy to set up and manage without dealing with cables and complicated wiring. The wireless operation is especially useful for events where running cables might be difficult or impractical, such as outdoor events, weddings or concerts.
Additionally, the package can be controlled by the RFC or RFC-XL, which is a wireless remote-control system that further enhances flexibility. This allows you to control the lights from a distance, giving you the freedom to change colours, patterns and effects without having to physically adjust each light. Whether you’re working a stage production or managing lighting from across the room at a party, this control system adds a lot of convenience and ease to the experience.
The included USB-C to XLR adapter is another useful feature. It allows for wired control, which is ideal if you want to connect the Freedom Flex Stick to other DMX fixtures or equipment. The adapter makes it easy to link these sticks into more complex setups, offering yet another layer of customisation for larger events where you need to coordinate multiple lighting fixtures.
Portability and Practicality
Portability is a key selling point for the Freedom Flex Sticks. The ability to transport lighting gear without worrying about damaging delicate components or dealing with tangled cords is a huge advantage. I loved the case with its custom-moulded interior providing the ultimate protection, ensuring that the sticks remain intact no matter how often they’re moved around.
Additionally, the removable batteries ensure that you can easily swap them out or charge them between gigs without needing to rely on external power sources. The wireless design, coupled with the lightweight construction, makes these sticks incredibly easy to carry and set up.
Overall Performance and Conclusion
After using the CHAUVET DJ Freedom Flex Sticks for a couple of events, I can confidently say that these lights are a fantastic addition to any lighting setup.
Their versatility, ease of use, and high-quality performance make them ideal for a wide range of events – from small parties to large performances. The removable batteries, easy-to-use control options, and ability to change the look with white sleeves ensure that these sticks are as adaptable as they are functional.
Whether you’re a DJ, event planner or lighting professional, the Freedom Flex Stick offers an impressive combination of features and performance that makes it a top-tier choice for portable event lighting. With their bright, colourful LEDs, wireless capabilities and rugged transport case, these lights are sure to enhance any event and provide the flexibility you need to create the perfect atmosphere.
If you're looking for a powerful, portable and easy-to-use lighting solution, the CHAUVET DJ Freedom Flex Stick X4 is worth considering. It’s a top-notch product that offers great value for anyone who needs reliable lighting that’s ready to go wherever the party is.
The full review can be found in Pro Mobile Issue 130, Pages 82-84.