The RETRO Series from Canto USA has been updated with the RETRO-Fusion® 2.0 and RETRO-Passive® 2.0. These updates streamline the product line and add installer-focused features such as field-swappable bases and detachable safety cables to simplify on-site work.
The RETRO Series product page (RETRO Series LED Retrofit Kits) includes spec sheets and related product information for installers and dealers.
Key updates at a glance
- Field-swappable bases let qualified reps and dealers change compatible mounting/attachment options on site.
- Detachable safety cables simplify installation and removal while preserving required secondary safety attachment.
- RETRO-Fusion® 2.0 uses a smaller, lower-profile housing for tighter fixtures; RETRO-Passive® 2.0 adopts a fanless design for quieter spaces.
- Both platforms continue to support 0–100% phase dimming and multiple mounting options to work with a variety of existing dimmer systems.
Easier installation and more field flexibility
A core goal of the 2.0 update is to reduce on-site complexity for installers. Field-swappable bases mean a single RETRO unit can accept multiple compatible electrical attachment options without ordering a different fixture variant. The detachable safety cable design helps installers manage the secondary safety connection during installation or removal.
These features were added with installers and dealers in mind; field changes should be performed by qualified representatives and dealers following Canto USA installation guidance and local electrical code.
Our goal with the Fusion 2.0 and Passive 2.0 was to simplify the installation process while providing the best quality RETRO product. We listened to the needs of the industry and made the necessary updates.
Shawn Harmon, North American Sales Manager
The new products became available for ordering on December 1, 2023, with shipping beginning January 1, 2024.
RETRO-Fusion® 2.0
The RETRO-Fusion® 2.0 features a smaller, lighter, lower-profile housing designed to fit a wider range of existing houselight fixtures. Its beveled upper edge helps the LED engine sit deeper in shallow housings to reduce lens extension beyond the trim ring and minimize glare.
Fusion 2.0 supports adjustable PAR rings and accessories and includes the 2.0 field-swappable mounting options. It remains Canto USA’s smallest-profile RETRO option and provides 0–100% forward- and reverse-phase dimming compatible with older SCR, TRIAC, and IGBT systems as well as newer dimmers.
RETRO-Passive® 2.0
The RETRO-Passive® 2.0 is designed for acoustically sensitive spaces where fixture noise must be minimized. Instead of active fan cooling, Passive 2.0 uses a fanless design with larger heat sinks to manage operating temperatures, making it suitable for concert halls, museums, recital spaces, and theaters.
The 2.0 update also aligns the Passive driver housing with the black enclosure style used across the newer RETRO lineup for a more consistent appearance. Like Fusion 2.0, Passive 2.0 supports 0–100% phase dimming and multiple mounting options to maintain compatibility with existing dimming systems.
Which RETRO is right for your project?
Consider these practical points when choosing between Fusion 2.0 and Passive 2.0:
- Space and profile constraints: If the existing fixture has limited clearance, Fusion 2.0’s smaller profile can help avoid lens or trim interference.
- Acoustic sensitivity: For spaces where mechanical noise is unacceptable, Passive 2.0’s fanless design reduces potential audible disturbance.
- Installer flexibility: Both models include field-swappable bases and multiple mounting options to simplify retrofits and reduce the need to stock many different variants.
- Dimming compatibility: Both models continue to support broad 0–100% phase dimming to work with older and newer dimmer systems.
Canto USA’s RETRO Series Fully Dimmable LED Retrofit Houselights
Canto USA is proud to present our RETRO series. The RETRO-Fusion® 2.0 and RETRO-Passive® 2.0 are 0–100% phase dimmable (forward and reverse) variable wattage LED engines. They are designed for older SCR, TRIAC, and IGBT dimmer systems but are compatible with newer dimmer systems. A direct replacement for existing lamps, our LED retrofit can be used in a wide range of applications or even new installations. Custom and standard mounting options are available.
Explore the full RETRO Series to view spec sheets and details for each configuration. For real-world installation examples, see our before-and-after RETRO install gallery: Canto USA RETRO Installations: Before-and-After LED Retrofit Projects.
