The ALX-654C is a very well made light. It is essentially the same as the ALX-352L (Luxeon V), but is powered by 4 C cells instead of the smaller 123A cells. Side by side they look almost identical except for the logo on the side and the overall size of the lights. If you like the ALX-352L (which based on my e-mails, a lot of people do like them), you may just love the 4 C version since it has much longer runtimes and uses very inexpensive and easy to find batteries.

The ALX-654C contains a Luxeon V LED and a regulator circuit to help maintain constant brightness throughout the battery life. The regulator circuit includes a multifunction circuit which allows for 3 light level settings - high, medium and low - and a blink mode.

The body is made of machined aluminum which has been finished with a black anodize. The anodize appears to be "Type II" which is fairly durable and will protect the surface of the body from corrosion and minor abrasion. The body walls are very thick so it should withstand a beating with little difficulty. The raised areas on the body have been checkered which provides an improved grip. There are 3 deeper grooves near the tailcap which helps with retention. A flat panel is machined on one side for logo imprinting. This flat panel also aligns with the switch to aid in activation when grasping the light in the dark. The head of the light has 6 raised plateaus which help prevent the light from rolling away when placed on its side. The tailcap has what appears to be a pressure vent and a tiny hole in the center. This design allows the light to stand on its end.

The bezel contains a plastic lens and a partially textured silvered plastic reflector which is quite deep. This allows more of the light to be captured and thrown forward. This type of design is important when working with the rather large light source surface of the Luxeon Star. The LED is still on it's factory heatsink and is held in place by an aluminum retaining ring. The retaining ring is screwed into the body and clamps down on the Luxeon Star, keeping it in good contact with the aluminum platform below. This permits the transfer of heat that may develop in use, thereby protecting the Luxeon from thermal damage.

How's the output? This light is a scorcher, just like its little brother! Very bright. Very smooth output with a gorgeous spot and wide spillbeam. Color temperature is very good with no noticeable tinting to the beam. Very white. When changing output modes, this light produces smooth continuous light regardless of the mode selected indicating a current regulated circuit is in use instead of the more common PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) circuit that would cause the light to flicker at lower levels of output.

Beam at one meter at target center

Runtime Plot: This light contains a regulator circuit to help maintain constant brightness throughout the battery life. However, the regulator circuit is a little different than most that I have encountered - it completely cuts out when the battery voltage drops to a certain level. This means that you have good light one second and the next you are completely in the dark! Not good! You can leave the light off for a moment and then quickly cycle it back on and click to a lower level where you will have light for a little while longer, but be sure you have a spare light with you if you are working in total darkness. To me, this is a safety issue and the light loses ½ Star off it's original 4½ rating as a result.

Runtime completed with Rayovac batteries. More information on runtime plots is available HERE.

The switch is a simple click switch and it is located just behind the head of the light. The switch is covered by a textured rubber cover that provides a non-slip surface and water resistance. Pressing the switch in series activates the 3 light levels - high (100%), medium (50%) and low (25%). Pressing and holding the switch for about 3 seconds activates the blink mode.

The torch is sealed at both ends by O-rings which have been well lubricated at the factory. The bezel lens also appears to have an O-ring seal. The switch, as mentioned before, is also covered by a rubber seal. This light is not intended for submersion, but should be able to withstand a good soaking without liquid penetrating the body. If water does get in, simply open it up and allow it to dry.

Ergonomics: Ergonomically, the torch fits well in the hand. Balance is toward the rear of the light body. The knurling is not rough at all and does not abrade the skin. No sharp edges were found. The switch is easy to locate due to the presence of the large flat panel machined into the side of the body. It is fairly heavy due to the thick construction of the body and the weight of the 4 C cells.

Size compared to a common 2AA aluminum light

4 C cells power the light for 4 hrs, 8 hrs, and 15 hours on High, Medium, and Low respectively (advertised). To switch out the batteries just unscrew the tailcap, drop out the cells, and replace with 4 new cells positive first.

Accessories: Included with the light is a very nice nylon and plastic sheath. The belt loop and top strap are held with snaps and the entire sheath has a thick plastic liner which allows it to keep its shape and also allows for easy insertion and removal of the light.

What I Liked: Water resistant, Tough/impact resistant, Great battery life, Regulated, Bright, Easy battery change, Lightweight, Stands up

What I Didn't Like: Nothing

Other Things I Noticed: Fairly heavy - not for lightweight carry.

Conclusions: A great Luxeon torch. Well machined, well designed, and great output. Comfortable in the hand and easy to use. No need to every worry about having to change the bulb since the Luxeons will last a very, very long time and cannot blow like a normal bulb. Much longer runtimes than its 123A powered counterpart and a great light to throw in the car, use around the house, during car-camping trips, just about anywhere where you may want to use a very intense (or less intense depending on your selected output level) and long lasting light.

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