I’ve been a mobile DJ for years, and let me tell you – the right DMX controller can totally transform your setup. Picture this: you’re at a wedding or small club, the vibe is perfect, the crowd is feeling it, but your lights are just “okay.” Then, you switch to a new DMX controller that gives you precise control over your lighting, matching every beat with stunning visuals. That’s when your performance becomes unforgettable.
But, as a mobile DJ, you have unique needs. You need something portable, easy to set up, and powerful enough to handle your light rig – without requiring you to become a lighting tech expert. After testing a few, here’s what I found out.
What to Look for in a DMX Controller for Mobile DJs
1. Portability
You’re constantly moving from gig to gig, so you need a DMX controller that’s compact, lightweight, and doesn’t take up too much space in your gear bag.
2. Ease of Use
You don’t have time to fiddle with complex systems between sets. You need a controller with intuitive controls that allows you to quickly access scenes, adjust fades, and sync your lights to your music without pulling you away from your performance.
3. Connectivity
Ensure it has enough DMX channels to handle your light setup. If you’re running basic lighting like pars, moving heads, or effect lights, 192 to 512 channels should be plenty. Also, think about future expansion.
4. Programmable Scenes
Pre-programmed scenes and chases are a must. You want to set them up once and trigger them easily during a gig. Controllers that allow scene recall or have auto-run modes make it easy to match the lights to the event without manual tweaking all night.
5. MIDI or Audio Sync
If you like to have your lights react to the music, look for a controller that offers MIDI input or audio-triggering capabilities. This can create an immersive experience without constant manual adjustments.
Best DMX Controllers for Mobile DJs in 2024
1. ADJ myDMX GO
The ADJ myDMX GO is a top choice for mobile DJs who want to keep it simple yet powerful. It’s a wireless DMX system that lets you control your lights from a tablet or smartphone using an intuitive app.
- Portability: It’s just a small dongle that connects wirelessly to your device. Super compact and lightweight.
- Ease of Use: The app interface is incredibly easy to navigate, even for beginners. Just connect your lights, and you’re good to go.
- Connectivity: Handles up to 512 DMX channels, which is more than enough for most mobile DJ setups.
- Why It’s Great: You can literally control your entire light show from your iPad. It’s perfect for DJs who want flexibility and minimal setup time.
If you’re already tech-savvy and want to keep things light, this is the go-to option. Plus, its wireless design reduces the number of cables you need to manage.
2. Chauvet DJ Obey 40
The Chauvet DJ Obey 40 is a great choice for DJs who prefer hardware-based control. It offers excellent functionality at an affordable price, making it one of the most popular entry-level DMX controllers.
- Portability: Lightweight but slightly larger than tablet controllers. Still easy to fit in a gear bag.
- Ease of Use: Simple interface with dedicated faders and buttons to control individual fixtures, scenes, and chases. No software to fuss over – just plug and play.
- Connectivity: 192 DMX channels. It’s enough to handle most small-to-medium-sized light setups.
- Programmable Scenes: Can save up to 240 scenes and 6 chases. Great for DJs who want quick scene changes and pre-programmed shows.
- Why It’s Great: If you like tactile controls and don’t want to rely on a tablet or laptop, the Obey 40 gives you the hands-on experience.
This is a solid, affordable controller that lets you get professional-looking results without needing a tech background.
3. Elation DMX Operator 384
For mobile DJs looking for more advanced control but still within a manageable price range, the Elation DMX Operator 384 offers fantastic flexibility.
- Portability: Bigger than the ADJ and Chauvet options but still relatively easy to transport. Sturdy design.
- Ease of Use: Offers more advanced features but keeps it simple enough for DJs who don’t want to dive too deep into programming.
- Connectivity: 384 DMX channels. Handles larger setups, so it’s great if you plan to expand your lighting rig.
- Programmable Scenes: 240 programmable scenes and 12 programmable chases. Plenty of room for custom lighting setups.
- Why It’s Great: Versatile and capable of handling a more complex lighting setup with ease. It offers a good balance between user-friendliness and professional features.
This is for DJs who are serious about integrating lighting into their sets but don’t want to be overwhelmed by the tech.
4. SoundSwitch Control One
The SoundSwitch Control One is designed specifically for DJs who want seamless integration of lighting and music. It’s perfect for synchronizing your light show with your DJ set.
- Portability: Compact and easily fits into your DJ setup. It’s small, durable, and lightweight.
- Ease of Use: It works alongside popular DJ software like Serato and Rekordbox, meaning you can sync your lights to the tracks automatically. It’s all about seamless integration.
- Connectivity: 2 DMX universes, offering up to 1024 DMX channels – perfect if you have a larger setup or plan to grow.
- Audio Sync: One of the best features is its ability to automatically sync your light shows with your DJ sets. It works effortlessly with software like Serato DJ, Traktor, and more.
- Why It’s Great: Perfect for DJs who want a hands-off approach to lighting, allowing them to focus on their set while the lights are perfectly synced.
For DJs who prefer software-based solutions but still want the reliability of hardware control, the SoundSwitch Control One is unbeatable.
5. Enttec DMX USB Pro Mk2
If you’re comfortable with software-based DMX control and want total flexibility, the Enttec DMX USB Pro Mk2 is a highly respected option.
- Portability: It’s just a small interface, so it’s ultra-portable. Plug it into your laptop or tablet, and you’re set.
- Ease of Use: Requires software to run, but once set up, you can control your entire light show from your laptop. Compatible with software like LightKey or Freestyler.
- Connectivity: 1024 DMX channels over 2 universes, making it highly scalable for larger lighting setups.
- Programmable Scenes: Depends on the software you use. You can easily program complex lighting shows and trigger them via the interface.
- Why It’s Great: If you’re into more detailed control and already work with software in your setup, this gives you maximum flexibility.
The Enttec DMX USB Pro Mk2 is ideal for DJs who are comfortable using software to control their lights and want more advanced features without breaking the bank.
Conclusion: Which DMX Controller Is Best for You?
- For Simplicity and Wireless Control: The ADJ myDMX GO is perfect if you want to control your lights with your phone or tablet and don’t want to deal with too much setup.
- For Hands-On Control: The Chauvet DJ Obey 40 is a great budget-friendly, hardware-based option if you want a physical controller.
- For Advanced Setup: The Elation DMX Operator 384 gives you the power to control larger rigs without diving into overly complex systems.
- For Full DJ/Lighting Integration: The SoundSwitch Control One is ideal if you want your lights synced perfectly with your music.
- For Software Users: The Enttec DMX USB Pro Mk2 is a small, portable option for DJs who prefer to use software to control their lights.
Choose the one that fits your style and rig, and you’ll be lighting up your sets just as much as the music!