Very basic QLab and DMX control instructions requested

[in...@pinkfloydtributeshow.com]

Hi all

I run QLab 3.1.12 with our Pink Floyd tribute show to run the audio backing tracks and synchronised video show and are looking to extend this to simple lighting control. My question, as a complete numpty, is how!

I've scanned through various help pages, forums and hardware providers but am getting nowhere. I would simply like to trigger basic lighting changes as we pass from one section of music to another.

I'm guessing I would need some kind of compatible USB to DMX interface (some people have mentioned MIDI and OSC) but what make / model is recommended? Do I require additional lighting control software?

Many thanks in anticipation,

Ali

[Craig K]

Do you already have a lighting rig and board programmed for the show?

Using MSC or OSC to send control to the LX desk is fairly straight forwards (depending on model of desk).

A little more info on your setup would be helpful.

Craig K.

[in...@pinkfloydtributeshow.com]

Hi Craig

Please assume in this example we're starting out with a blank piece of paper, an Apple Mac, QLab, some DMX enabled lights and some DMX cables! Although we have a theatre show that uses in house equipment we're also looking at setting up a completely standalone setup that is independent of anything else.

Hope that helps- and thank you!

Ali

[Andy Dolph]

If you're starting from zero you need more then just a USB to DMX interface - you actually need a light board - that board can be software that runs on the same mac, or it can a more typical external hardware light board.

I know that some folks here use LxConsole with Enttec hardware (I'd go for the ODE box and control it over ethernet rather then the USB one - the ODE seems to be MUCH MUCH easier to deal with and reliable.)

The ETC Nomad system would be another choice.

There are many others....  I'll let those with more experience then I get into advising you on which one might be best for you.

Andy

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[Alexander Taylor (Mailing List)]

I would second the Nomad suggestion.  The smallest version (which is still upgradable in the future) is still cheaper than a physical board.  OSC controls, and you can use the ODE node for ArtNET or the official ETC USB widget.  Really a smart choice if you want a all-in-one show computer.  Yes, you have to deal with a tiny USB dongle, not really that bad though.  All told under a $1k solution.

Plus your show files will be compatible with any Eos (or Cobalt if you go that route) console.

Alexander

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[Andy Dolph]

The decision is mostly which platform you want to learn to program on - ETC Nomad (EOS software) is a great platform for theater, I think the rock and roll programers would prefer something that's more like a Hog or MA console.  I believe they all have software only versions at this point...

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[in...@pinkfloydtributeshow.com]

Thanks Andy - starting to make sense :)

So would I right in thinking I setup lighting presets / patches in LxConsole and then trigger the presets via QLab? If so, what kind of instructions am I sending from QLab? We've been playing in theatres and the local stage crew have said MIDI, DMX and OSC.

Seems like the final piece of the jigsaw perhaps?

Many thanks!

[Alexander Taylor (Mailing List)]

Note that with the Nomad, you get a choice (you can change every time you launch the program) between EOS and Cobalt, which is ETC’s answer to the more Rock and Roll consoles.  Never used it myself, but it is there if you want it.

Alexander

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[Tim Rogers]

I've had great luck with QLab + LXConsole (http://lx.claudeheintzdesign.com/lxconsole_about.html). 

All you need is a USB-to-DMX interface - the Enttec USB DMX Pro (http://www.enttec.com/?main_menu=Products&pn=70304) is the classic, but the DMXKing ultraDMX Micro (http://dmxking.com/usbdmx/ultradmxmicro) works great too, especially if you are working in 3-pin DMX gear.

Record your cues in LXConsole and trigger them from QLab via MIDI or OSC. Both work fine. I prefer OSC.

If you'd like more information, let me know. I'm happy to help.

[in...@pinkfloydtributeshow.com]

Tim - that sounds perfect, many thanks indeed (and to everyone who has contributed here).

This is a low-priority task for me so I may come back to you Tim if I get stuck, but you've certainly given me plenty to get on with.

All the best,

Ali

On Monday, 7 March 2016 19:52:27 UTC, in...@pinkfloydtributeshow.com wrote: