MagicQ

On Stage Lighting first got to see and use the Cham Sys MagicQ when it was still a prototype and at the time we were blown away by what at the time was a game changing lighting control platform.
Since then, many other desk manufacturers have stepped up to the plate and we have a huge range of choice. However, the MagicQ system still has many benefits for learning and using a moving light control in a cost effective and transferrable way.

Lighting Control Hardware Lifecycles

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Following on from some recent discussion in the lighting control hardware vs. software debate, On Stage Lighting considers some trends in the market and the life cycle of specialist lighting console hardware.

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QLab 4 and Stage Lighting Control

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So, the much anticipated QLab 4 has arrived and with it a new branch of functionality that may or may not have caught you by surprise.  On Stage Lighting looks at the new lighting control capabilities of QLab 4 and considers future developments.

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Essential Busking Pages 2 – Palettes Only

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In the second of our experiments in search of the Essential Busk Page, On Stage Lighting sets a new set of restrictions that give us a chance to explore further techniques used in busking concert lighting systems using pro level consoles.

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Essential Busking Pages 1 – Playbacks Only

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On Stage Lighting takes on experiments in minimalism to explore process of creating the Simplest Busk Page Ever (TM).  A thought exercise as much as a design one, the application of restrictive rules is used to give every single lighting element maximum consideration. The article will be updated during the development process.

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OSC and Stage Lighting Control

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OSC and Stage Lighting Control interface using TouchOSC.
Following a recent tip-off from ChamSys that the 1.7.2.6 release of the MagicQ software will include support for Open Sound Control (OSC), we look at what OSC is and how it relates to modern stage lighting systems.

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Pixel Mapping Stage Lighting Guide

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Media Servers and Digital Lighting was a quick introduction to “convergence” and the technologies involved in using digital media for stage lighting. Current lighting trends include the use of arrays of fixtures such as RGB LED units to replay images and effects, using Pixel Mapping. This article looks at the basics of pixel mapping and asks if it is possible to re create some of these effects on a budget.

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