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.

Light controllers

GrandVJ XT (Upgrade) GrandVJ upgrade to XT version

Arkaos GrandVJ XT Upgrade

Upgrade from GrandVJ to GrandVJ XT. GrandVJ XT adds expert features such as the Video Mapper extension, allowing projection mapping and advanced management of multiple displays. : AV Software...

€395.00 *

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Arkaos Mediamaster Express 5 license

ArKaos MediaMaster Express 5 license The ArKaos MediaMaster Express 5 license is a powerful media server software for easy and flexible real-time control of videos, graphics and effects. Ideal for...

€795.00 *

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Arkaos Mediamaster Express 5 Backup-Lizenz

Arkaos Mediamaster Express 5 backup license

ArKaos MediaMaster Express 5 backup license The ArKaos MediaMaster Express 5 Backup license is the ideal solution for securing existing MediaMaster Express 5 installations. It offers full...

€285.00 *

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Arkaos Mediamaster Pro 5 - License

ArKaos MediaMaster Pro 5 license The ArKaos MediaMaster Pro 5 license is the professional software solution for impressive video mapping, live visuals and media control. With powerful features, an...

€1,925.00 *

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Arkaos Mediamaster Pro 5 backup license

ArKaos MediaMaster Pro 5 Backup License The ArKaos MediaMaster Pro 5 Backup license offers an additional level of security for existing MediaMaster Pro 5 users. It allows a parallel installation on...

€749.00 *

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Arkaos Mediamaster Pro 5 Upgrade von Pro 4

Arkaos Mediamaster Pro 5 - Upgrade from Pro 4

Upgrade for ArKaos MediaMaster Pro 5 – From Pro 4 license The ArKaos MediaMaster Pro 5 Upgrade allows you to update an existing Pro 4 license to the latest version of MediaMaster Pro 5. This...

€465.00 *

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Arkaos Mediamaster Pro 5 Upgrade von MME 5 license

Arkaos Mediamaster Pro 5 Upgrade from MME 5 license

Upgrade for ArKaos MediaMaster Pro 5 – From MME 5 license The ArKaos MediaMaster Pro 5 Upgrade makes it easy to quickly update from an existing MME 5 license to the powerful MediaMaster Pro 5...

€1,835.00 *

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Arkaos GrandVJ XT Full version License

Complete live video mixing software for pro Lighting Designers • Video Mapper extension • Allows projection mapping and advanced management of multiple displays • Mix up to 16 layers...

€455.00 *

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American DJ myDMX-RM

American DJ myDMX-RM ADJ’s myDMX 3.0 is a multi-platform DMX control software/hardware system (Windows and OSX Mac compatible). myDMX RM has a new, robust, 19” rack mount, hardware...

€239.00 *

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EUROLITE DXT Programmier/Strom-Einspeiser Pixel Converter

EUROLITE DXT Programming/Power-Feeder Pixel Converter

A simple way to power the "DXT DMX Pixel Converter PRO" while configuration on your PC. There is no need for a seperate powersupply, just another spare USB port. Do not connet an LED...

€13.50 *

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Sunlite FC Suite First Class

Sunlite Basic Class, 1 XLR Compact Design, Suite3 Express, 256ch POWERFUL AND HIGH-PERFORMANCE LIGHTING CONTROL SOLUTION SUNLITE-FC With 1536 DMX channels (expandable to 2048) on 4 XLR connectors,...

€749.00 *

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Not in stock
Delivery time: approx. 2 weeks

Delivery time: approx. 2 weeks

Daslight DVC GZM

Daslight DVC GZM Product Details The Daslight software is free to download, but requires a Daslight USB or Ethernet interface to convert the data from the software to DMX so the fixtures can...

€699.00 * €679.00 *

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Not in stock
Delivery time: approx. 2 weeks

Delivery time: approx. 2 weeks

beamZ DMX-240 Controller 192-Channel

A 192-Channel DMX lighting controller with jog wheels for easy use of pan & tilt. Equipped with 30 banks of 8 programmable scenes, 6 programmable chases of 240 scenes, a function for two...

€159.00 *

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Wireless solutions CRMX Upgrade for G6 R-512 Lizenz für LumenRadio-Kompatibilität

WIRELESS SOLUTION CRMX Upgrade for G6 R-512 License for LumenRadio compatibility

Compatibility key for Lumens Radio CRMX transmitters • Suitable for BlackBox R-512 G6 • Quick installation via W-DMX Configurator app • The CRMX Upgrade for R-512 G6 enables you to...

€109.00 *

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Wireless solutions CRMX Upgrade for G6 F-1/F-2 Lizenz für LumenRadio-Kompatibilität

WIRELESS SOLUTION CRMX Upgrade for G6 F-1/F-2 License for LumenRadio compatibility

Compatibility key for Lumens Radio CRMX transmitters • Suitable for BlackBox F-1 G6 / F-2 G6 • Quick installation via W-DMX Configurator app • The CRMX Upgrade for F-1/F-2 G6 enables...

€185.00 *

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Showgear DS-24M/5 DMX Rack Split 8x 5-pin male XLR auf 2x female RJ45 Konverter

SHOWGEAR DS-24M/5 DMX Rack Split 8x 5-pin male XLR to 2x female RJ45 converter (4 universes per

Split Box • Suitable for converting 8 universes to two CAT cables • Male 5-pin XLR and female RJ45 connectors • 19"/1U rack size • Strong reliable metal housing • The...

€72.90 *

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Showtec Lampy 20 1U 1 Universe DMX-Konsole mit 20 Fädern

SHOWTEC LAMPY 20 1U 1-Universe 20-fader DMX console

512 channel DMX console • 10.1" touchscreen with Fixture View and Quick Colour Picker • Multicolour indicator LEDs and 4 encoder wheels with 1.3" display • Complete...

€2,495.00 *

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Showtec Lampy 20 2U 2 Universe DMX-Konsole mit 20 Fädern

Showtec Lampy 20 2U 2 Universe 20-fader DMX console

1024-channel two universe DMX console • 10.1" touchscreen with Fixture View and Quick Colour Picker • Multicolour indicator LEDs and 4 encoder wheels with 1.3" display...

€2,455.00 *

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Showtec Lampy 40 1U 1 Universe DMX Konsole mit 40 Fadern

Showtec Lampy 40 1U 1 Universe 40-fader DMX console

512 channel DMX console • 10.1" touchscreen with Fixture View and Quick Colour Picker • Multicolour indicator LEDs and 4 encoder wheels with 1.3" display • Complete...

€2,879.00 *

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Showtec Lampy 40 2U 2 Universe DMX Konsole mit 40 Fadern

Showtec Lampy 40 2U 2 Universe 40-fader DMX console

1024-channel two universe DMX console • 10.1" touchscreen with Fixture View and Quick Colour Picker • Multicolour indicator LEDs and 4 encoder wheels with 1.3" display...

€2,812.08 *

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Smoke Factory DMX IT 1 channel BOX

DMX IT 1 channel BOX External DMX to analog converter with 4 pin. XLR Anschluss The Smoke Factory DXM IT1 is a DMX converter that can be used to control devices without integrated DMX but with a...

€117.90 *

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Delivery time: approx. 2 weeks

Delivery time: approx. 2 weeks

MADRIX Software 5 License preprogrammer

Includes 1x MADRIX KEY and 1x MADRIX 5 License preprogrammer • MADRIX 5 is a powerful, easy-to-use, and award-winning LED lighting control software • Allows you to realize all kinds of...

€595.00 *

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beamZ STICK-CW4 WiFi DMX Wandmontage Interface

beamZ STICK-CW4 WiFi DMX Wall Mount Interface

The STICK-CW4 programmable lighting controller, for RGB and RGBW lighting, has been designed around a touch sensitive colour wheel. The controller is USB programmable from a PC or Mac using the...

€729.00 * €599.00 *

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Showtec TED Pack Single BS13 1-Kanal Dimmerpack - UK-Ausgang

SHOWTEC TED Pack Single BS13 1-Channel Dimmer Pack - UK output

BS13 output connector (UK) • Leading and trailing edge dimming • 4 dimmer curves for conventional and LED lights • Special Effects mode with safety channel • Mounting holes on...

€165.00 *

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