Chauvet DJ 4-Channel Dimmer Relay Pack or Chauvet DJ Obey 70 Universal DMX-512? Which Chauvet DJ Model to Buy
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You are comparing the chauvet dj 4 channel dimmer relay pack vs obey 70 universal dmx 512. Both units support DMX-512 control, making them compatible with standard lighting rigs. The main difference lies in their scale and purpose. The Dimmer Pack focuses on simple, direct control of four channels for basic fixtures. The Obey 70 is a complex programmer designed for intelligent moving lights. You need to decide if you require straightforward dimming or advanced scene sequencing for a larger show.
Key differences
| Aspect | Chauvet DJ 4-Channel Dimmer and Relay Pack | Chauvet DJ Obey 70 DMX Controller |
|---|---|---|
| DMX Channels | 4 | 384 |
| Fixture Type | Dimmer/relay pack | Intelligent lights |
| Max Scenes | Not listed | 240 |
| Weight | 5 pounds | 6.9 pounds |
| Dimensions | 8.25 x 7.65 x 2.75 inches | 22.6 x 4.57 x 9.06 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Chauvet DJ 4-Channel Dimmer and Relay Pack if
- You need to control simple dimmable lights or relay outputs directly.
- You prefer a compact, lightweight unit for easy transport.
- You want to set each channel to any DMX address independently.
Choose Chauvet DJ Obey 70 DMX Controller if
- You are programming complex shows with up to 12 intelligent fixtures.
- You need to store and recall 240 different scenes and chases.
- You require adjustable fade and speed times for each step.
Verdict: The Dimmer Pack is the practical choice for basic lighting setups requiring straightforward channel control. The Obey 70 is the necessary tool for productions involving intelligent moving heads and complex choreography. Select the unit that matches the complexity of your fixture list.
Dimmer Pack vs Obey 70 Comparison
Control Channels
The Chauvet DJ 4-Channel Dimmer and Relay Pack offers four DMX channels. Each channel can be set as either a dimmer or a relay. You can assign any DMX address to each channel. This setup is simple and direct for basic lighting needs. In contrast, the Chauvet DJ Obey 70 DMX Controller provides 384 DMX channels of control. It can manage up to 12 intelligent lights with 32 channels each. This massive channel count allows for complex programming of moving heads and intelligent fixtures. The Obey 70 clearly supports much larger and more intricate lighting systems than the four-channel dimmer pack.
Scene Memory
The Chauvet DJ 4-Channel Dimmer and Relay Pack does not list any scene memory capabilities in its specifications. It focuses on variable electronic dimming from zero to one hundred percent. You can adjust speed control and dimming with or without DMX input. The Chauvet DJ Obey 70 DMX Controller features 30 banks of eight scenes, allowing for a maximum of 240 scenes. It also includes six sets of chases containing 240 scenes. You can program fade and speed time into each step. The Obey 70 offers extensive memory for storing and recalling complex lighting cues, which the dimmer pack lacks entirely.
Physical Size
The Chauvet DJ 4-Channel Dimmer and Relay Pack is compact. It measures 2.75 inches in width, 7.65 inches in height, and 8.25 inches in length. It weighs five pounds. This small footprint makes it easy to mount in tight spaces or attach to trussing without taking up much room. The Chauvet DJ Obey 70 DMX Controller is significantly larger. It measures 9.06 inches in width, 4.57 inches in height, and 22.6 inches in length. It weighs 6.9 pounds. The larger size of the Obey 70 accommodates its extensive control interface and internal components, while the dimmer pack remains a small, unobtrusive unit.
Dimming Capabilities
The Chauvet DJ 4-Channel Dimmer and Relay Pack provides variable electronic dimming. Each channel can control intensity from zero to one hundred percent. You can also use the channels as relays for on/off control. Adjustable speed control is available for smooth transitions. The Chauvet DJ Obey 70 DMX Controller does not list specific dimming percentages in its specs. It focuses on controlling intelligent lights via DMX signals. While it can dim lights, it does so by sending data to the fixtures rather than controlling power directly like a dimmer pack. The Dimmer Pack offers direct, hardware-based dimming for simpler loads.
Fixture Compatibility
The Chauvet DJ 4-Channel Dimmer and Relay Pack is designed for standard lighting fixtures that accept DMX-512 dimming signals. It handles up to four fixtures or loads. The Chauvet DJ Obey 70 DMX Controller is built for intelligent lighting. It can control up to 12 intelligent lights, each with up to 32 channels. This allows you to manage moving heads, LED pars, and other complex fixtures that require multiple DMX parameters. The Obey 70 is better suited for shows with dynamic, intelligent lighting. The Dimmer Pack is limited to basic dimming functions for simpler setups.
Which Chauvet DJ DMX Controller Fits You
Users needing simple dimming or relay switching
The Chauvet DJ DMX-4 provides four dedicated channels for direct control. Each channel functions as a variable electronic dimmer or a relay. You can adjust speed and dimming levels without a complex console. This unit handles basic lighting tasks with minimal setup, making it ideal for straightforward installations where you just need reliable on/off or brightness control.
Professionals running complex intelligent light shows
The Obey 70 handles up to 384 DMX channels across 12 intelligent fixtures. It offers 30 banks of 8 scenes, allowing for 240 total scenes. You can program fade times and speeds into each step. With six chase sets, this controller supports intricate sequences and dynamic lighting effects that require precise, multi-channel programming capabilities.
Those prioritizing compact and lightweight gear
The DMX-4 is significantly smaller and lighter than the Obey 70. It weighs five pounds and measures 2.75 by 7.65 by 8.25 inches. This compact form factor makes it easier to mount or transport. If you need a small footprint for tight spaces or frequent moves, this unit offers a practical solution for basic dimming needs.
The products compared
Chauvet DJ 4-Channel Dimmer and Relay Pack
Best for: Controlling four independent lighting circuits via DMX
- Fixture Type
- Dimmer/relay pack
- Control Modes
- DMX-512
- DMX Channels
- 4
- Lighting Effects
- Dimmer
- Features
- DMX Control
- Dimensions
- 8.25 × 2.75 × 7.65 inches
View on Amazon: Chauvet DJ 4-Channel Dimmer and Relay Pack Affiliate link
This unit is a 4-channel DMX-512 dimmer and relay pack. Each channel functions as either a variable electronic dimmer or a relay. You can set each to any DMX address. The device supports adjustable speed control and dimming with or without DMX. It measures 8.25 by 2.75 by 7.65 inches and weighs 5 pounds. It suits users needing precise control over four lighting circuits.
Pros
- Four independent channels for separate control
- Each channel configurable as dimmer or relay
- Adjustable speed control and dimming
- Variable electronic dimming from 0 to 100 percent
Cons
- Limited to four channels of control
- Requires external DMX-512 controller for operation
- No built-in display for status monitoring
Good fit if
- You need to control four separate lighting circuits independently
- You require the flexibility to switch channels between dimmer and relay modes
- You are integrating this into an existing DMX-512 lighting network
Skip if
- You need to control more than four lighting channels simultaneously
- You require standalone operation without a DMX controller
- You prefer a unit with a built-in interface for manual adjustments
Verdict: Chauvet DJ 4-Channel Dimmer Relay Pack offers reliable control for four channels. It fits users who need flexible dimmer or relay outputs in a DMX setup.
Chauvet DJ Obey 70 DMX Controller
Best for: Complex intelligent lighting setups with many fixtures
- DMX Channels
- 384 channels
- Features
- DMX Control
- Dimensions
- 22.6 × 9.06 × 4.57 inches
- Weight
- 6.9 pounds
View on Amazon: Chauvet DJ Obey 70 DMX Controller Affiliate link
The Chauvet DJ Obey 70 is a universal DMX-512 controller designed for managing intelligent lighting fixtures. It supports up to 384 DMX channels and can control 12 lights with up to 32 channels each. The unit offers 30 banks of 8 scenes, totaling 240 scenes, along with 6 sets of chases. It measures 22.6 inches in length and weighs 6.9 pounds. This model suits users needing extensive scene programming and chase capabilities for complex setups.
Pros
- Controls up to 12 intelligent lights of up to 32 channels each
- Stores 30 banks of 8 scenes for a maximum of 240 scenes
- Includes 6 sets of chases containing 240 scenes
- Allows program fade and speed time settings for each step
Cons
- Bulky footprint at 22.6 inches in length
- Heavy build weighing 6.9 pounds
- No mention of wireless connectivity or app control
Good fit if
- You need to program and store 240 distinct scenes
- You are controlling multiple intelligent fixtures with high channel counts
- You require detailed chase sequences for your lighting design
Skip if
- You need a compact controller for tight spaces
- You prefer wireless control over wired DMX connections
- You only need to control simple dimmer packs
Verdict: Chauvet DJ Obey 70 DMX Controller is a robust solution for users managing complex intelligent lighting systems with extensive scene and chase requirements. It fits professionals who need precise control over many channels and fixtures.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Chauvet DJ 4-Channel Dimmer and Relay Pack | Chauvet DJ Obey 70 DMX Controller |
|---|---|---|
| Fixture Type | Dimmer/relay pack | not stated |
| Control Modes | DMX-512 | not stated |
| DMX Channels | 4 | 384 channels |
| Lighting Effects | Dimmer | not stated |
| Features | DMX Control | DMX Control |
| Dimensions | 8.25 × 2.75 × 7.65 inches | 22.6 × 9.06 × 4.57 inches |
| Weight | 5 pounds | 6.9 pounds |
| Color | SILVER | Black |
| Model | DMX-4 | Obey 70 |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the Chauvet DJ 4-Channel Dimmer Pack for intelligent lighting fixtures?
No, this unit is designed for basic dimming or relay switching, not intelligent fixtures. It provides four dedicated channels that function as variable electronic dimmers or relays. Intelligent fixtures typically require more complex DMX data streams and channel counts. You would need a controller like the Obey 70 for managing moving heads or LED pars.
How much space does the Obey 70 take up in a rack?
The Obey 70 measures 22.6 inches in length, 9.06 inches in width, and 4.57 inches in height. It weighs 6.9 pounds. This footprint is significantly larger than the Dimmer Pack, which is only 8.25 inches long. You need ample desk or rack space to accommodate its extensive control surface and display area.
What is the weight difference between the two Chauvet DJ controllers?
The Obey 70 weighs 6.9 pounds, while the 4-Channel Dimmer Pack weighs 5 pounds. The difference is 1.9 pounds. The Dimmer Pack is lighter and more compact, making it easier to transport. The Obey 70 is heavier due to its larger chassis and internal components required for complex programming.
Does the Chauvet DJ Obey 70 support DMX-512 protocol?
Yes, the Obey 70 is a Universal DMX-512 controller. It supports the standard DMX-512 protocol used in professional lighting. This ensures compatibility with most stage lights, including intelligent fixtures. You can use it to send precise control data to a wide range of equipment in your setup.
Can I mix dimmer and relay outputs on the 4-Channel Pack?
Yes, each of the four channels can be assigned as either a dimmer or a relay. This flexibility allows you to control different types of loads simultaneously. You can adjust dimming levels on some channels while using others for simple on/off switching via relays.
Is the Chauvet DJ DMX-4 suitable for large venues?
It is best for small setups or simple circuits. It only offers four channels of control. Large venues typically require many more channels to manage numerous fixtures. The Obey 70 is a better choice for large spaces because it handles complex systems with extensive scene and chase requirements.