Mixed reactions to my LSL-P

[brightnorm]

I was going to order a LSH-P but, based on reports, decided on the LSL-P because of its wider beam. LSL-P #268 arrived today and I must say that it was not what I expected.

Since I joined CPF in 2001 I have bought seven ARC LS seconds, one of which is my EDC (2AA lithium). Its beam is bright, slightly blue-purple tinted white, with a very well dispersed beam. The other six vary in tint and brightness.

I was expecting my new LSL-P to show a noticeable improvement over my older ARCs at least in some aspect of its functioning, whether in brightness or color or both. Unfortunately it was, in most cases, neither. The beam was noticeably purple though less ao than the typical KL1 and two of my most purple older ARCs, and it was dimmer than several of the older models. The beams of at least two of my older, cheaper ARCs were in all ways superior to the LSL-P, and the most purple ones were brighter.

However, when it came to physical construction and appearance the LSL-P head was absolutely first class. From its sleeker dimensions and flawless anodizing to its gleaming interior the LSL-P is leagues above its cruder predecessors (at least the ones I had).

If the light's performance had matched its construction it would have immediately become my new EDC. Now I'm faced with sending it back to Peter, something I hate to do but frankly, I am quite disappointed with this light.

Perhaps my mistake was ordering a LSL-P instead of the LSH-P. I'll give ARC a call and see what they advise.

I'm sorry for this rather unenthusiastic report but it's an accurate reflection of my observations and feelings.

Brightnorm

 

[this_is_nascar]

Being an owner of many ARC products, I've shared your response on several occasions, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE LSH-P. All 3-of my LSH-P have been great, with no issues at all.

I suggest you return the LSL and get the LSH-P. Note, I said the LSH-P, PREMIUM. I'm sure you'll find that to be what you're looking for.

 

[brightnorm]

That's what I'll do. Thanks Nascar.

Brightnorm

 

[this_is_nascar]

I should have some beam shots posted somewhere in the forum, showing the differences betwen my LSH-P and 2-other LS2's (low dome).

 

[this_is_nascar]

Try HERE.

 

[Gransee]

Those are good pictures of the LS High dome Premium. Notice the distinct squarish pattern around the center hot spot. This is a unique beam among flashlights.

I personally prefer the high dome LED, but to each their own.

Peter

 

[brightnorm]

Thanks Nascar and Peter. Peter, I'll just order a LSH-P now and send back the LSL-P tonight or tomorrow.

Brightnorm

 

[Gransee]

Understand that it is not a perfect light and it may not live up to the hype. But I will be very pleased if it serves you well for many years!

This brings to mind an important point: A significant part of the 0.12% LS return rate is from people who bought one of the models and didn't think it met the hype they read here on the CPF. They thought it should be brighter, whiter, etc. Although I think these lights compare very well to anything else in it's class, they do have limitations of course. I am not saying you should excuse an obvious flaw (no way!), just saying know what you are getting into.

May your Arc be one of your most usefull tools.

Peter

 

[asdalton]

I got a new LSL-P two weeks ago, and I am very happy with it. It is a replacement for the LS hybrid that I bought last October. I chose to buy the new model for its improved body design, but the improvement in the LED quality was obvious, too.

My LSL-P is brighter and whiter than the hybrid, but my Badboy 400 edges out the LSL-P (slightly) in both categories. I don't know if this is due to the Badboy being driven harder (is it?), or if the LED in the Badboy is especially good.

 

[treek13]

[ QUOTE ]
asdalton said:
I don't know if this is due to the Badboy being driven harder (is it?), or if the LED in the Badboy is especially good.

[/ QUOTE ]

The BadBoy is being driven harder 400ma compared to the Arc-LSx at 330ma and/or you may have gotten an especially good LED. It sounds like at the very least you have an above average led in your BadBoy.

Enjoy your good fortune and fine lights,
Pat

 

[brightnorm]

[ QUOTE ]
Gransee said:
Understand that it is not a perfect light and it may not live up to the hype. But I will be very pleased if it serves you well for many years!

This brings to mind an important point: A significant part of the 0.12% LS return rate is from people who bought one of the models and didn't think it met the hype they read here on the CPF. They thought it should be brighter, whiter, etc. Although I think these lights compare very well to anything else in it's class, they do have limitations of course. I am not saying you should excuse an obvious flaw (no way!), just saying know what you are getting into.

May your Arc be one of your most usefull tools.

Peter

[/ QUOTE ]

Peter,

As long as I can see some improvement in brightness and color I will be happy, or as happy as a Flashaholic can be /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif.

I'm pretty realistic about my expectations in general but I do feel there is little point in getting something that is no better than what one already has.

As I mentioned, from a physical standpoint the LSL-P was without any visible flaw and appeared beautifully executed.
If the beam of the LSH-P (just ordered) can be a little whiter and a little brighter you'll have another satisfied customer.

Thanks,
Brightnorm

 

[GlockDoc]

[ QUOTE ]
brightnorm said:
I...decided on the LSL-P...I must say that it was not what I expected.

I was expecting my new LSL-P to show a noticeable improvement over my older ARCs at least in some aspect of its functioning, whether in brightness or color or both. Unfortunately it was, in most cases, neither. The beam was noticeably purple...and it was dimmer...The beams of...my older, cheaper ARCs were in all ways superior to the LSL-P, and the most purple ones were brighter.

However, when it came to physical construction and appearance the LSL-P head was absolutely first class. From its sleeker dimensions and flawless anodizing to its gleaming interior the LSL-P is leagues above its cruder predecessors (at least the ones I had).

I'm sorry for this rather unenthusiastic report but it's an accurate reflection of my observations and feelings.

Brightnorm



[/ QUOTE ]

Brightnorm,

I had quite the same reaction with an LSH. My older LS1 second was marginally brighter, but the LSH was only slightly whiter.(I think my LS1 has an exceptional LED) I didn't find the "throw" of the LSH to be as I had expected. For me the "throw" was about the same with both, but the LS1 lit up more area.

I sent it back and got an LSL-P. My LSL-P is still not quite as bright nor as white as my older LS1. The beam color is like my AAA-LE, a slight tinge of purple/blue in the center, but WAY brighter!

That said, the LSL-P is still brighter than anyone else's I have seen. Cosmetically it is wonderful, and being waterproof, it is now my EDC. My LS1 is my back-up, with the 2AA pack.

I wonder if the smaller diameter of the "new" generation of lights could be the difference in the perceived brightness level of the two? I mean the difference is only noticeable in a small, dark room.(The Ceiling Test)

If I ever win the lotto, I'll see if I can get Peter to put the LED from my old LS1 into one of the new housings. It really is a great light, but I wish it were waterproof.

GD

 

[SilverFox]

Hello BrightNorm,

I must say that I have been really happy with my LSH-P. The only thing I changed was the battery holder. I got the 2 AA holder and now it fits in my hand.

I hope you enjoy yours.

Tom