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Moving Heads vs LED Pars: Which Fixtures?

Truss packed with moving heads and LED pars on a Krank'd event rig

Two of the most common questions we get: “What are those lights that move?” and “Do I need them?” Here’s a straight answer.

LED Pars: The Workhorse

LED par fixtures are the backbone of most event lighting rigs. They’re compact, reliable, and come in battery-powered options that need zero cabling. Point them at a wall, a stage, a tree, a tent ceiling — they wash everything in colour.

Best for:

  • Uplighting (walls, columns, architectural features)
  • Stage washes (even colour coverage)
  • Outdoor events (IP-rated versions available)
  • Events with short bump-in times
  • Budget-conscious packages

Our battery-powered LED pars are wireless and fully self-contained — no power cables, no data cables. Place them anywhere, control them via DMX or onboard programs. We carry 6 different LED par models for different applications.

Moving heads and LED pars lighting a stage in warm and cool tones
Moving heads and LED pars lighting a stage in warm and cool tones

Moving Heads: The Show-Stopper

Moving head fixtures are the ones that pan, tilt, zoom, change colour, project patterns, and create aerial beam effects. They’re what turn a lit stage into a show.

Best for:

  • Concert and festival stages
  • Theatre productions
  • Corporate reveals and award ceremonies
  • Any event where lighting IS the visual feature
  • Events with a dedicated lighting operator

Moving heads need a lighting console and a skilled operator to get the most out of them. They also need rigging (truss or ground stands), power, and DMX data. That’s why they’re almost always hired as part of a supply-and-operate package.

We carry 8 moving head models from Ayrton, Martin, and Chauvet — from compact wash movers to full-size arena profile fixtures.

So Which Do You Need?

Scenario Recommendation
Wedding reception LED pars (uplighting + dance floor wash)
Corporate gala / awards night Mix of both — pars for atmosphere, 4-6 movers for stage moments
Festival / concert stage Moving heads as primary, pars for fill
Theatre production Moving heads + conventional profiles (ETC Source Four)
Outdoor community event IP-rated LED pars + 2-4 IP-rated movers
Exhibition / trade show LED pars for booth lighting, 1-2 movers for feature spots

Not Sure? Just Ask

Tell us about your event and we’ll recommend exactly what you need — no more, no less. Get in touch or browse our full rental inventory.

Planning an event?

Talk to Krank'd about lighting design, supply & operate or dry hire across Gold Coast & Brisbane.

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