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Old August 16th, 2008, 09:55 PM
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Default Re: RGB vs. CMY Color Mixing

Quote:
Originally Posted by gafftaper View Post
"RGB" is an additive process and requires multiple light sources (typically Red, Green, and Blue) which are mixed together to make white. However, RGB isn't the only additive combination used. Selador's LED instruments use this technique but actually have 7 different colors mixing to make white.

"CMY" is a subtractive process and uses a single white source. A combination of Cyan, Magenta, and Yellow dichroic filters are moved in front of the light to subtract out colors in order to mix the color you want. (Seachanger adds a fourth "extreme Green" filter to extend the range of colors possible.)
But what if you were to additive mix with CMY? I've never seen strip lights or cyc lights to be CMY (although I have seen RGB, RGB+Amber or RGB+N/C). Why is it that most striplights do not use cyan and magenta to create blue? I'm assuming it has something to do with the light output or the strength of color used?
However when I was learning color theory, you put a true red gel, you get red light. You use a magenta gel, the light has red and blue wavelengths, so it would seem as though that would allow more light to be let through.

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