What types of lighting control systems are available?

Lighting control systems fall into four main categories: hardware consoles (dedicated desks with faders and buttons, ideal for live operation), software interfaces (PC or tablet-based control via USB or Ethernet, offering powerful programming at lower cost), preset controllers (simple scene-trigger devices for fixed installations) and architectural systems (DALI, KNX for building integration, focusing on energy efficiency rather than dynamic effects). For stage and event use, DMX-based hardware consoles and software systems dominate, while architectural applications favour DALI and wireless protocols like Zigbee or Casambi.

How can I control lights via smartphone?

Smartphone control requires a wireless DMX interface or a lighting controller with built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Apps like Luminair (iOS), DMXControl (Android) or manufacturer-specific apps (e.g. Cameo Control, Showtec QuickDMX) connect to the interface over your local network, allowing you to adjust colours, trigger cues and mix scenes via touchscreen gestures. For permanent installations, systems like Casambi embed Bluetooth modules directly into LED drivers, eliminating the need for separate DMX cabling. Smartphone control is ideal for small venues, mobile DJs and installations where a full console would be impractical.

What is DMX-512 and how does it work?

DMX-512 (Digital Multiplex with 512 channels) is the standard protocol for stage lighting control, defined by ANSI E1.11. The system transmits digital control data at 250 kbit/s over a daisy-chained cable network, with each fixture assigned a unique start address (1–512). The controller sends a continuous stream of packets containing 512 channel values (0–255), updated roughly 44 times per second. Each fixture reads the packet, extracts the values for its assigned channels, and adjusts its output accordingly. A single DMX universe supports up to 32 fixtures; larger installations use multiple universes via splitters or network protocols like Art-Net.

What's the difference between 3-pin and 5-pin DMX cables?

The official DMX-512 standard specifies a 5-pin XLR connector (pins 1: ground, 2: data–, 3: data+, 4 and 5: reserved), but many manufacturers use 3-pin XLR (the same as audio cables) for cost and convenience. The 3-pin version omits the unused pins 4 and 5, which are rarely implemented in practice. While 3-pin DMX works reliably for most installations, it's technically non-compliant and can cause compatibility issues with certain fixtures. Critically, never substitute standard microphone cables for DMX – they have the wrong impedance (50–75Ω vs. 110Ω required) and will cause signal reflections over long runs.

What does a lighting control system cost?

Entry-level USB-DMX interfaces for PC-based control start at €80–€150, offering a single DMX universe (512 channels). Compact hardware controllers with 6–12 faders range from €150 to €600, suitable for mobile DJs and small venues. Mid-range scene-based consoles with touchscreens and multiple universes cost €800–€2,500, ideal for clubs and theatres. Professional touring consoles from brands like Chamsys, Avolites and MA Lighting range from €3,000 to over €50,000, offering advanced programming, redundant systems and integration with timecode and video. Software packages vary from free (QLC+) to €500+ for professional licences (Daslight, Sunlite).

Which lighting control system suits my venue?

For mobile DJs and small events, a compact USB-DMX interface (€80–€200) paired with free or low-cost software provides flexible control without the bulk of a hardware console. Clubs and fixed installations benefit from scene-based controllers (€300–€1,500) with faders assigned to lighting looks, enabling live mixing without complex programming. Theatres and concert venues require consoles with cue-list playback, timecode sync and multiple universes (€1,500–€10,000+), from brands like Chamsys or ETC. Touring productions demand ruggedised, redundant systems (€5,000+) with offline programming and backup controllers. For architectural integration, DALI or KNX systems offer energy management and building automation.

How many fixtures can one DMX universe control?

A single DMX universe provides 512 channels of control data. The number of fixtures you can connect depends on how many channels each fixture uses. A simple RGB LED PAR can uses 3 channels (red, green, blue), allowing up to 170 fixtures per universe. A moving head spot might use 16–24 channels (pan, tilt, colour, gobo, dimmer, strobe, etc.), limiting you to 20–30 fixtures per universe. The DMX-512 standard officially supports up to 32 devices per universe, though many systems push this to 40–50 in practice. For larger installations, use multiple universes via DMX splitters or network protocols like Art-Net.

Do I need a DMX terminator plug?

Yes – a 120Ω terminator plug should always be installed in the DMX output socket of the last fixture in your chain. Without termination, the DMX signal reflects back along the cable, causing interference, flickering and erratic behaviour, especially over long cable runs (>50 metres). The terminator is a simple XLR plug with a 120Ω resistor soldered between pins 2 and 3. Many professional fixtures include a built-in termination switch, eliminating the need for an external plug. Termination is critical for reliable operation and is considered standard practice in professional installations.

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Lumenradio Galileo MAX Erweiterbarer DIN-Schienen W-DMX-Sender

LUMENRADIO Galileo MAX Expandable DIN-rail W-DMX Transmitter

Art-Net/sACN to W-DMX transmitter for DIN rail • Supports CRMX, CRMX², W-DMX G3 and W-DMX G4S • RDM support via Art-Net • Add more universes by adding Galileo TX • The...

€1,835.00 *

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DIN-Schienen-Gehäuse IP67 Außenschutz für auf DIN-Schienen montierte LumenRadio-Produkte

DIN Rail IP67 Enclosure Outdoor protection for DIN rail mounted LumenRadio products

IP67 and UL 746C for outdoor use • 6 module wide DIN rail • RP-SMA male to N female antenna connector • Cable glands and moisture vent • The LumenRadio DIN Rail IP67 Enclosure...

€179.00 *

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ADJ NET 8

ADJ Lighting’s NET 8, a cutting-edge 8-port DMX over Ethernet node that revolutionizes your lighting control experience. This versatile node supports ArtNet, sACN, DMX and RDM protocols,...

€399.00 *

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ADJ SDC24

The ADJ Lighting SDC24 is a basic 24-channel DMX Controller that operates via an external 12VDC power supply (included) or a 9VDC battery (not included). SDC24 has 5-pin and 3-pin DMX output...

€79.00 *

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ADJ myDMX5

Available from ADJ EU in July 2024! Elevate your lightshow to unprecedented heights with the latest DMX lighting software package from ADJ. myDMX 5 introduces a myriad of enhancements, boasting a...

€479.00 *

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ADJ RDM XS8

The ADJ Lighting RDM XS8 is a 19-inch rack mount, 8-way DMX and RDM data splitter. With one 5-pin input, one 5-pin thru and eight 5-pin outputs, the RDM XS8 makes running DMX cables easier and more...

€169.00 *

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ADJ Pixie Driver 2000 V3

Pixie Driver 2000 V3 is designed specifically for the ADJ's Pixie Strip 30, Pixie Strip 60, Pixie Strip 120 and Pixie Curve 60. It provides easy and versatile control options including simple...

€519.00 *

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ADJ Pixie Driver 8000 V2

Pixie Driver 8000 V2 is designed specifically for the ADJ Pixie Strip 30, Pixie Strip 60, and Pixie Strip 120. It provides easy and versatile control options including simple on-board manual...

€1,490.00 *

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SHOWTEC IP Pixel Controller Spezieller Controller für IP-Pixelstrips

SHOWTEC IP Pixel Controller Dedicated controller for IP Pixelstrips

Controls up to 16 m IP Pixelstrip 40/80 • Art-Net, Kling-Net, sACN, DMX/RDM, Master Slave and Manual modes • IP65-rated enclosure • OLED display • The Showtec IP Pixel...

€859.00 *

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SHOWTEC Airdrive 2.4 Stick Drahtloser DMX-Empfänger – 3P XLR

SHOWTEC Airdrive 2.4 Stick Wireless DMX receiver - 3P XLR

Reliable, cable-free DMX control • Compatible with Wireless DMX and LumenRadio protocols • Battery-powered • 3P XLR • The Showtec Airdrive 2.4 Stick is a wireless DMX512...

€155.00 *

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SHOWTEC Airdrive 2.4 Stick Drahtloser DMX-Empfänger – 5P XLR

SHOWTEC Airdrive 2.4 Stick Wireless DMX receiver - 5P XLR

Reliable, cable-free DMX control • Compatible with Wireless DMX and LumenRadio protocols • Battery-powered • 5P XLR • The Showtec Airdrive 2.4 Stick is a wireless DMX512...

€159.00 *

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SHOWTEC Assistant DMX, RDM, Art-Net und sACN-Tester

SHOWTEC Assistant DMX, RDM, Art-Net and sACN tester

For DMX, RDM and Art-Net testing • Record and play back DMX signals with a removable SD card • Portable, battery-powered operation • User-friendly control with touch screen, fader,...

€549.00 *

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SHOWTEC Assistant CRMX W-DMX, DMX, RDM, Art-Net und sACN Tester

SHOWTEC Assistant CRMX W-DMX, DMX, RDM, Art-Net and sACN tester

For W-DMX, CRMX, DMX, RDM and Art-Net testing • Record and play back DMX signals with a removable SD card • Portable, battery-powered operation • User-friendly control with touch...

€795.00 *

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LUMENRADIO MoonLite² CRMX transceiver

For instant wireless capability • Male and female 5-pin XLR connectors • Screen and navigation buttons • Rechargeable battery • Bluetooth connectivity • Lumenradio's...

€689.00 *

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EUROLITE freeDMX PRO 512 Wi-Fi Interface

Wi-Fi DMX interface for apps & programs like Light Captain Wi-Fi DMX interface for wireless lighting control from your tablet or PC • Receives the control signals via the network and...

€349.00 *

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EUROLITE EC-2 DMX Controller

The EC-2 is a compact 2-channel DMX controller with 3-pin XLR output. It is used for easy operation of fog machines, strobes, blinders and other DMX-controlled devices on stage. Each channel has a...

€39.90 *

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FUTURELIGHT WDR-TIMO-2 Drahtlos-DMX-Empfänger Einbauplatine

FUTURELIGHT WDR-TIMO-2 Wireless DMX Receiver built-in PCB

CRMX receiver board for wireless DMX, 512 channels Adds wireless DMX capability to standard products • Can receive and process up to 512 DMX channels • Control via CRMX by LumenRadio;...

€149.00 *

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LTECH DMX LED Driver 16x 3A

16x 3A • OLED display and control buttons • 8-bit/16-bit • Multiple dimming curve options • Built-in circuit protection and photoelectric isolation • This 16-channel, 3A...

€195.00 *

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LTECH DMX LED Driver 32x 3A

32x 3A • OLED display and control buttons • 8-bit/16-bit • Multiple dimming curve options • Built-in circuit protection and photoelectric isolation • This 32-channel, 3A...

€269.00 *

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LTECH DMX LED Driver 4x 8A

4x 8A • Digital display and control buttons • 8-bit/16-bit • Standard or smooth dimming • Built-in circuit protection • This 4-channel, 8A DMX LED Driver is equipped with...

€37.50 *

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LTECH SPI Driver DMX512/RDM to SPI

Converts DMX512/RMD signals into SPI digital signals • OLED display • Control buttons • This SPI Driver converts DMX512/RDM signals into SPI digital signals and works with most pixel...

€115.00 *

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Swisson XSP-TR5-TR5 (rack), DMX splitter

Reliably split every signal DMX splitters are the backbone of every DMX512 installation. The XSP models offer maximum reliability in professional use on tour or in installations. The specially...

€1,009.12 *

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Swisson XSH-3BR-1P4 (Box) RDM Hybrid Splitter

Signal splitter with power The XSH Hybrid Splitter is the splitter for simultaneous distribution of the DMX signal and power supply via XLR and powerCON connectors. It connects one powerCON 20A...

€949.62 *

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Swisson XSH-5BR-1P4 (Box) RDM Hybrid Splitter

Signal splitter with power The XSH Hybrid Splitter is the splitter for simultaneous distribution of the DMX signal and power supply via XLR and powerCON connectors. It connects one powerCON 20A...

€949.62 *

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Facts

Lighting Control Systems – Your Key to Professional Light Shows: Lighting control systems are the nerve centre of every professional light show. Whether you're programming moving heads for a concert, creating atmospheric scenes for theatre productions, or synchronising LED effects for club nights, a reliable lighting controller gives you complete command over every fixture, colour and movement. At LTT, you'll find everything from compact... Read more »

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