In this blog post we will be comparing two lighting control solutions offered by LSC and Obsidian Control Systems. Both systems target different segments of the lighting market and offer features that are suited to beginners and advanced users alike.

Obsidian Control Systems NX1: An Overview

The Obsidian NX1 represents the entry into Obsidians all in one console segment. It features a powerful integrated computer that has 8 GB of DDR4 RAM, a fast NVMe Solid State Hard Drive and a powerful Intel processor. The console has a 10.1” full High-Definition touch screen display, 4 customizable encoder wheels and most importantly, 10 motorized faders. Additionally, the console has four customizable executor buttons and traditional GO+ and GO- cue buttons.

The system is powered by Obsidian’s Onyx software which was formally known as Martin M-PC. The software has improved vastly under Obsidian’s development. The most advanced development has been seen in Onyx’s pixel mapping system, Dylos. Dylos serves as an advanced media/pixel mapping engine that is controlled from within Onyx thus reducing the number of systems potential clients must invest in. Dylos features over 1100 media files and allows users to import their own media as Dylos supports most media codecs. Finally, Dylos features a visual programming interface which results in ease of use for both novices and experts alike.

Obsidian Control Systems NX1: Ease of Use

The NX1 does present some challenges in terms of ease of use for complete lighting novices such as schoolteachers due to its command line programming interface, some basic training will be required to ensure that the console is configured correctly, however, once initial training has been completed the system will become very easy to use and can scaled easily across large venues like School halls. Additionally, the NX1 allows users to learn the basics of command-line based programming which will assist users if they decide to transition to consoles such as the Hog or GrandMA.

LSC Mantra: An Overview

The LSC Mantra is LSC Controls Systems only Lighting control console. It is again like the Onyx system in that no external computer is required to control the desk, rather the computer is built in. The LSC Mantra has an 18cm Touch screen display, 10 playback faders which can be expanded to a total of 30m if two fader wings are purchased. In its most basic configuration, the Mantra can control 24 fixtures which again can be expanded to 48 fixtures if two fader wings are purchased. The console also features brown out protection with a miniature UPS which allows the show file to be saved.

LSC Mantra: Ease of Use

The LSC Mantra does not use a command-line based interface like the Onyx which makes it extremely easy for novice users to program the console. LSC has implemented an App-based programming paradigm that allows users to quickly identify key lighting feature sets such as colour, intensity control, beam control and position control. The Mantra also contains intuitive FX building features that allows the user to create, for example, intensity chases or moving patterns in a single cue. Finally, the Mantra sports an intelligent fixture editor, Mantra will automatically discover the DMX personality of the fixture without needing to consult the Manufacturers manual.  These features make the Mantra suited to small school halls, houses of worship and community theatre. The console is well suited to novice users and has more advanced features that allow it to be scaled for larger events or more complicated lighting rigs.