Lighting desks are available in a wide variety of sizes and with varied feature sets. The best lighting console for your venue or production depends on four key factors:
Does your crew consist of professional technicians or novice volunteers? Knowing the skill level of those who will be using the board can determine if you want an easy-to-use, intuitive console, or one that can offer far more flexibility and options with complex programming capabilities.
If you are adding a new control board to an old system, you’ll want to be sure of the control protocol required by your existing equipment. Most new consoles output DMX or DMX plus network data, but older dimmers may be operated on an analog standard called AMX. Many small portable dimmers employ control protocols which are specific to individual manufacturers. If the existing equipment cannot be upgraded to the modern DMX standard, then a translator or converter will be required to assure trouble free communication throughout your entertainment lighting system.
The right lighting console for you may be far different than the regional theatre down the street, depending on how your venue is used:
We understand that most theatres don’t have an endless supply of funding, and that budgets can be quite tight. Fortunately, many manufacturers are offering more affordable options that can run off of a laptop, instead of needing to invest in an expensive piece of hardware.
The good news is that you don’t need to make these decisions alone. Lighting consoles come in all different sizes, shapes and features. Our team has deep knowledge of the various options on the market today, as well as the experience to help integrate a new desk into your system. We can provide an evaluation at no charge, and would be happy to review your systems to present some options.
VLS also offers console training to help your church, theatre company or venue staff learn how to best utilize the technology. We’re happy to answer your questions on console choice, training, and systems integration.
Schedule an appointment for salesperson to evaluate lighting console needs
Vincent Lighting Systems (VLS) is a full-service entertainment and architectural lighting and rigging supplier, serving the states of Ohio, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Indiana, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina and nationwide. Our team provides reliable sales, repair, rental and production support.
Since 1978, the experts at VLS have met customers’ needs with equipment and products from over 100 industry manufacturers. VLS has managed 10,000+ projects and productions, including specialty architecture, bridges, theatres, schools, houses of worship, weddings, and corporate events.
For lighting assistance in Cleveland, Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, Columbus, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, Louisville, Raleigh, Charlotte and beyond, contact the professionals at Vincent Lighting Systems.
