KOSMOS FM Gundam Aerial LED Kit Review: The "Strongest Permet Score" Effect?
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KOSMOS FM Gundam Aerial LED Kit Review: The "Strongest Permet Score" Effect?
An in-depth technical assessment of the Phantom Light Set based on Chinese community feedback and video analysis
The KOSMOS Phantom Light Set for the FM 1/100 Gundam Aerial has been called "the strongest Permet Score effect" by Chinese reviewers — including the influential channel -评头论足- (Ping Tou Lun Zu) with nearly 700,000 views on their coverage. After examining the engineering, installation process, and real-world results, here's the complete assessment.
What "Permet Score" Actually Means
In Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury, the Permet Score measures synchronization between pilot and machine. As the score rises, the Gundam Aerial emits an increasingly intense cyan glow from its head vents, chest intake, and limb joints.
The effect is central to the Aerial's visual identity — without it, you're looking at a white and green mobile suit. With it, you're looking at the Gundam Aerial.
Lighting Zones: Where the LEDs Go
| Zone | Color | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Head | Cyan/Blue | Vents and sensor eye glow |
| Chest | Cyan | Main intake glow, most visible |
| Limbs | Cyan | Joint illumination |
| Thrusters | Variable | RGB cycling or static |
| GUND-BITs (Model B) | Cyan trails | 11-bit trail lighting |
Engineering Assessment
The Controller Box
A compact controller houses power management and effect logic. It's small enough to tuck inside the Aerial's backpack or hide behind a display base.
- USB Type-C input (5V) for continuous display power
- 3×AA battery input for portable/cordless operation
The 5 Light Modes
- Static: Continuous illumination
- Breathing: Slow pulse fade — mimics "living" machine
- Pulse: Sharp on/off strobe — combat alert
- Wave: Sequential chase effect
- Chase: Rapid sequential lighting
Installation Reality: What Reviews Actually Say
The Good:
- "Effect is too cool" — visual payoff justifies the effort
- "Worth it" — satisfaction is high after completion
- "No soldering" — plug-and-play connectors work as advertised
The Challenging:
- "Floating cannon light strip is troublesome" — GUND-BIT wiring repeatedly described as "complicated"
- "Cable management" — routing wires without visible bulges is the primary skill test
- "Need to plan painting" — translucent yellow parts must remain unpainted for glow
Comparison: KOSMOS vs DIY vs Other Brands
| Approach | Cost | Difficulty | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| KOSMOS Kit | ~$65-85 | Medium | Professional |
| DIY (individual LEDs) | ~$30-50 | High | Variable |
| Other third-party | ~$50-70 | Medium-High | Inconsistent |
Final Assessment
For Model A: An excellent execution of core body lighting. The Permet Score effect is convincingly replicated, installation is manageable for intermediate modelers, and the price-to-impact ratio is strong.
For Model B: Spectacular when complete, but the GUND-BIT installation complexity is not understated in reviews. Buy it eyes-open, knowing what you're committing to.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the kit include the Gundam Aerial model?
No. This is strictly an LED upgrade kit. You must already own or separately purchase the Bandai FM 1/100 Gundam Aerial.
Can I use this with the Aerial Rebuild or other variants?
No. This kit is specifically designed for the original FM 1/100 Gundam Aerial. The Rebuild has different internal structure.
How does the app control work?
The controller box creates a Bluetooth connection. Download the KOSMOS app, pair once, and control brightness/modes from your phone.
Will the lights damage my model?
LEDs generate minimal heat. The controller may warm slightly during extended use, but not to levels that affect polystyrene plastic.
Note: Review based on product specifications, Chinese user reviews from SMZDM and Bilibili, and publicly available demonstration content. Installation experience may vary.