Used Vari-Lite VL550 Wash / VL550D Wash
Used Vari-Lite VL550 Wash and VL550D Wash are the Series 500 moving head wash luminaires, featuring the patented DICHROTUNE radial colour mixing system and versatile beam control options suited to a wide range of applications. The VL550D Wash adds a Tungsten source with an integral IGBT dimmer. Scroll down to explore second-hand VL550 and VL550D Wash units currently listed for sale.
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Vari-Lite VL550 Wash / VL550D Wash specifications
| Brand | Vari-Lite |
| Segment | Lighting |
| Typical used price | $712 (range $569–$1,343) |
About the Vari-Lite VL550 Wash / VL550D Wash
The Vari-Lite VL550 Wash and VL550D Wash are Series 500 wash moving head luminaires designed for a wide range of applications, with the VL550D Wash incorporating a Tungsten light source and integral IGBT dimmer. The patented DICHROTUNE radial colour mixing system uses three sets of 16 radially mounted dichroic blades in magenta, blue and amber to produce smooth, full-spectrum colour cross-fades, with pastel versions also available for a softer theatrical palette. Sixteen radially mounted diffuser planes control beam spread, and six interchangeable lens options include clear, stipple, 8-row, 10-row, 12-row and Buxom. Natural convection cooled lamps and low-noise internally cooled electronics keep operation quiet, with two on-demand yoke-mounted fans activating only when ambient temperature exceeds 41°C or the fixture is in a horizontal position. DMX512 input requires no additional outboard equipment, and an on-board backlit invertible LCD display simplifies setup and control.
Vari-Lite VL550 Wash / VL550D Wash — buyer FAQs
What is the Vari-Lite VL550 Wash and how does it differ from the VL550D Wash?
The Vari-Lite VL550 Wash and VL550D Wash are both Series 500 wash moving head luminaires. The key distinction is that the VL550D Wash incorporates a Tungsten light source with an integral IGBT dimmer for intensity control, whereas the VL550 Wash does not carry that integrated dimmer. Both share the same DICHROTUNE colour mixing system, beam control options and quiet cooling design.
Who makes the VL550 Wash, and where does it fit in the Vari-Lite range?
Vari-Lite is an American entertainment lighting brand established in 1981 and credited with developing the first modern automated moving light, now owned by Signify. The VL550 Wash and VL550D Wash sit within the brand's Series 500 line of wash moving heads, positioned for a wide range of professional applications spanning concert touring, theatre and large-scale events.
How does the DICHROTUNE colour mixing system work on the VL550 Wash?
The DICHROTUNE system uses three sets of 16 radially mounted dichroic blades in magenta, blue and amber to produce smooth, full-spectrum colour cross-fades. Pastel versions of the standard colours are also available, offering a softer theatrical palette suited to Broadway-style live theatre productions where subtle, warm colour rendering is preferred over saturated output.
What beam control options are available on the VL550 Wash?
Beam spread is shaped by 16 radially mounted diffuser planes. For further control, units can be fitted with six interchangeable lens options: clear, stipple, 8-row, 10-row, 12-row and Buxom. The stipple lens is included as standard with stock fixtures, and the remaining options allow output to be tailored to the demands of different venue sizes and applications.
What should I check when buying a used VL550 Wash or VL550D Wash?
Confirm which lens is present, since only the stipple lens is included as standard and others are optional extras. On the VL550D, verify the integral IGBT dimmer is functioning correctly. Check the LCD display backlighting and fan operation. Used units on 10K Used carry a 21-day warranty covering major functional faults; full guidance is at https://www.10kused.com/used-av-equipment-guide/.
