When did product development begin?
“During the development of the MAC One fixture in 2022/2023, we were already thinking about potential other family members for the MAC One family. Early in 2024, shortly after the shipping release of the MAC One fixture, the team could fully focus on the next family member, the MAC One Beam. So, initial concept investigations, including research of the LILI source, happened in 2022/2023, but the actual development started in early 2024.”
What were the initial goals when it came to designing the MAC One Beam?
“We were overwhelmed by the positive feedback we received from designers, technicians, rental companies and others on the original MAC One fixture. The low weight, extremely compact form-factor and ease of deployment in large quantities. We wanted to keep the same family values and develop a Beam fixture in the same eco-system. So, it was all about creating the most impactful beam fixture, while staying below 5Kg/11lbs, in MAC One dimensions, MAC One price-level and working with the MAC One rigging accessories.”
“We were laser-focused to not create a feature-overloaded fixture, it had to follow the MAC One philosophy.”
Which features of the MAC One Beam do you think will appeal to lighting designers?
“Impactful beam from a very compact and lightweight fixture. Finally, a beam that can easily be deployed in large quantities. A beam that is ‘bright’ enough for most applications. And then the new three-dimensional backlight effect, which works great for those moments when you don’t need a beam and don’t want to have a ‘black hole’ in your design, but also works great combined with the beam.”
Which elements make it a robust fixture suitable for touring?
“Obviously, this fixture follows the Martin robustness and extreme testing and validation requirements. Designed and tested to survive years on the road. As we have seen with the MAC One fixture, which turned out to be a very high ROI unit for rental customers, we believe the MAC One Beam will be very similar. Being a Beam that fits anywhere…”
What are some of the ways you’ve been able to make changes to the MAC One Beam?
“This fixture was designed by our R&D team in Denmark, so it was not about ‘changing’, it was about designing exactly what we needed. This fixture carries the full Martin MAC DNA in terms of robustness, reliability, versatility, but the new innovations really came in the form of using an automotive-grade LILI source, not used in this industry before. Enabling us to create a small, impactful and safe beam fixture. Also pushing the boundaries of how lightweight a high contrast beam fixture can be and then we pushed our creative team to come up with a new style of backlight effect.”
Where do you see the new fixture sitting in the wider family of Martin fixtures?
“It is the sibling of the MAC One fixture. So, in that sense, the smallest MAC in the range, and also the smallest Beam from Martin ever.”
What responses did this product get at ISE?
“Ever since Beam fixtures started showing up decades ago, we have all learned that demonstrating a beam fixture at a tradeshow is kind of a nightmare. Lots of ambient light, not enough throw distance, and uncontrollable levels of haze. Despite this, the responses were very positive. Customers who have seen the fixture before ISE, in an actual concert venue, were impressed and have already pre-ordered.”
Where can we expect to see the new fixture?
“The MAC One Beam started shipping from our Pecs, Hungary factory in March 2026, and with several thousands already pre-ordered we are curious to see where customers will take them.”
Words: Wouter Verlinden
Photo: Martin Professional
