Compact DMX control for jobs that do not justify a full console: fader desks, scene setters and playback controllers from ADJ, Transcension and LEDJ, alongside Nicolaudie Architectural DIN-rail controllers and USB-DMX interfaces for installed and computer-based systems.

Pick by how the rig will actually be operated. Fader-based units such as the ADJ SDC-6 give direct channel-per-fader control that suits dimmers, generic LED fixtures and quick static looks; the DMX Operator format handles up to 12 fixtures with chases and MIDI triggering for mobile and club rigs; and scene setters store looks for recall by non-technical staff. For architectural and venue installs, Nicolaudie’s DINA-DR1-LITE and DR2-LITE DIN-rail controllers sit in a distribution board and run standalone schedules, while the SLESA-U11 interface plays back shows programmed from a computer. Count your channels honestly before buying, as a 192-channel desk fills up quickly once moving fixtures with 20-plus channel modes arrive, and check whether you need standalone playback after the programming laptop goes home.

These controllers pair naturally with the splitters and wall plates in the Distribution category, and full theatrical programming lives over in Lighting Consoles.