Profoto’s B1 was a game-changer when it was introduced in 2013, pairing battery-powered portability with studio-style lighting output. Now, Profoto is ready to replace the B1 with the new B1X.

So what’s new?

The new 500 W/s B1X offers an upgraded battery that delivers 50 percent more energy for up to 325 full-power flashes while retaining the size and weight of the original B1 battery. The new B1X battery can be used in the B1 and charged using a B1 battery charger.

You can expect better performance from the modeling light, too. It delivers 80 percent more light output with a higher CRI (90+).

Profoto also tweaked High Speed Sync mode. The B1X has the same power range in HSS mode as in normal flash mode: 9 f-stops for all compatible cameras. B1 users will also gain that capability via a free firmware update.

Some things haven’t changed. Like the B1, the B1X supports TTL metering using the Air remote. Recycle times clock in at .1 -1.9 seconds and flash durations between 1/11,000 – 1/1000 sec. (t0.5).

The B1X costs $2,095 in a to-go kit that includes a battery, charger and a carrying bag. It’s expected to ship in June.

Profoto is also adding a pair of OCF reflectors to its modifier lineup: the OCF Zoom Reflector and the OCF Magnum Reflector.

The OCF Zoom Reflector is compact enough that it can fit in a B1 case while mounted on the B1 or B1X. It’s ideal for concentrating light at close ranges (two meters and under). The OCF Magnum Reflector is ideal for casting light over a longer distance.