Lasers

Pure fascination can be added to a light show using laser technology, which has evolved over the last few decades and is now widely affordable, versatile, and easy to use thanks to low safety classifications that often do not require prior training. However, some systems can only be operated by qualified personnel under the supervision of a laser safety officer due to their classification, and whether for DJ party setups or highly professional applications, the range of available lasers offers a full spectrum of options for different needs.

Support with your laser purchase from our lighting department

Laser technology in the show and entertainment sector is a highly technical subject, which makes it all the more important to receive clear and comprehensive advice. After all, on the one hand, it's about truly spectacular laser displays and the modern functionality of the equipment, but on the other hand, the health of both the audience and yourself has to be taken into account. Our lighting guides cover all areas of lighting technology, and our lighting experts will be happy to advise you via chat, by phone on +49 9546-9223-45 or by e-mail to licht@thomann.de.

Reassuring reasons to buy lasers

Your satisfaction is our top priority, which is why customer service is not just a buzzword for us, but a core part of our company philosophy. To underscore your confidence in your purchase, Thomann's 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee and 3-year Thomann warranty are there to give you complete peace of mind.

Stay up to date on laser classes – always better to be safe than sorry

When buying lasers, it is important to consider laser classes, as in addition to generally approved models, some devices may only be operated by trained professionals under the supervision of a designated laser safety officer due to their classification. They can pose risks to the eyes and skin during operation and, in some cases, even present fire or explosion hazards, with lasers being classified from class 1 to class 4, where higher classes indicate greater levels of risk. It is important to note that this classification is based on the potential theoretical damage lasers could cause, rather than the actual risk associated with specific devices.

What is an RGB laser?

RGB stands for red, green, and blue, and these colours when combined can also create white light, allowing show lasers to produce a full range of mixed colours, whereas earlier models that were limited to just two colours could not achieve certain mixes, especially white.

Laser technology is constantly evolving

Gas lasers, once common in the past, have largely disappeared from the market and have been replaced by solid-state and semiconductor lasers, which enable high-performance systems capable of producing advanced projections and state-of-the-art visual effects. The next stage in development, both then and now, are diode-pumped solid-state (DPSS) lasers, with high-performance laser diodes now reaching outputs of up to 1,000mW and leading to the gradual decline of blue-emitting DPSS lasers on the market.

Laser class 2M or below does not require approval from a laser safety officer

In the entertainment industry, laser classes 1, 1M, 1C, and 2 are rarely encountered, with low-risk Class 2M lasers mainly used in party applications, often integrated into multi-effect units such as the Eurolite LED Multi FX Laser Bar. Another example of a Class 2M laser is the Eurolite LED Laser Derby MK2, which can be used to create laser, strobe and the popular retro Derby effects. No approval or appointment of a laser safety officer is required for Class 2M lasers.

Significantly stricter requirements for show lasers from Laser Class 3R onwards

In contrast, lasers from class 3R and above differ significantly, as class 3R devices are permitted to emit up to 5mW in the visible spectrum (400–700nm), which corresponds to around five times the output of class 2 lasers. One of the differences from Class 3B is that neither access restriction nor the provision of a connection for an interlock system or a key switch is required.

The Laserworld FX-700 Hydro contains a Class 3R laser, whereas the Laserworld EL-400RGB S belongs to laser class 3B. This multi-coloured animation laser, can project animations, graphics, spatial, and tunnel visuals with impressive impact. For 3B, safety measures ranging from the interlock system to the key switch are mandatory.

Laser regulations must be strictly followed

For laser classes 3R, 3B, and 4, the appointment of a laser safety officer is mandatory (there is no classification higher than class 4). Lasers that exceed the limits of lower categories due to their power are automatically assigned to class 4, which comes with strict user requirements, and these devices must under no circumstances be used or operated by untrained individuals.

Here is an overview of the laser classes once again:

• Laser class 1 Laser safety officer not required
• Laser class 1M Laser safety officer not required
• Laser class 1C No laser safety officer required
• Laser class 2 Laser safety officer recommended
• Laser class 2M Laser safety officer recommended
• Laser class 3R Laser safety officer mandatory
• Laser class 3B Laser safety officer mandatory
• Laser class 4 Laser safety officer mandatory

Note: The regulations listed here are those valid in Germany at the time of writing – these requirements may differ in other countries.

High-performance equipment from Thomann for professional use

The highest-performance model in the Laserworld diode series is the CS-24.000RGB ShowNET, which is designed as a full-colour laser and classified as laser safety class 4. This means that the strict requirements must be followed.

Affordable RGB laser from Laserworld sets new standards in its price range

A professional Class 4 RGB laser that has set new standards in terms of features, quality, and usability in the budget sector right from its launch is the Laserworld CUBE 1. With a guaranteed laser power of 1,000 mW, this RGB laser delivers a scanning speed of 25 kpps at 8°. Texts and custom graphics can easily be projected onto the walls, while the sound control function allows the laser show to be synchronised in real time to the music. A unique feature of the CUBE 1 is that it can be easily and cost-effectively controlled via Bluetooth and the dedicated app.

Don’t forget the interlock switch when buying a laser

An interlock switch is an emergency stop switch, and the Laser Remote Interlock from Showtec is just one example. Such a safety switch is not always included with show lasers, RGB lasers, or other high-power systems, so it is strongly recommended to use one and to never bypass the key lock function under any circumstances.

Different variants of laser control

Conventional party lasers are normally controlled either via DMX, an IR remote control, the display on the device, or in music mode. Professional models, which typically have a higher laser safety class, are usually controlled - where available - via standards such as ILDA, DMX-512, or MIDI, and it is often advisable to use show controller and show editor software to pre-program laser performances while still allowing real-time adjustments of effects and colours during operation. The laser show can be programmed using a timeline with the Laserworld Showcontroller, a laser show and multimedia software that is ILDA-compatible and supports MIDI and DMX, while also offering an intuitive interface and a full range of functions needed to create a dynamic and visually impressive laser performance.

Our range includes lasers and accessories from the following brands:

· Laserworld · Eurolite · Stairville · ADJ · Showtec · Cameo · Varytec · and others ·

We wish you every success with your laser show, whether it's in a party room, a medium-sized venue, a large stage setup, a façade lighting installation, or an outdoor event, and for any questions, assistance is always available on request.