Chauvet DJ OBEY40 Universal DMX Light/Fog vs Chauvet DJ Obey 10 Universeal Compact: Spec Comparison
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You are comparing the chauvet dj obey40 universal dmx light fog vs obey 10 universeal. Both units are DMX-512 controllers from Chauvet DJ designed to manage intelligent lighting fixtures. They share a focus on portable operation and basic scene sequencing. The main difference lies in their capacity. The Obey 40 handles significantly more channels and fixtures, while the Obey 10 offers a simpler, more compact setup for smaller needs.
Key differences
| Aspect | Chauvet DJ Obey40 DMX Controller | Chauvet DJ Obey 10 Compact DMX Controller |
|---|---|---|
| DMX Channels | 192 | 96 |
| Max Fixtures | 12 fixtures | 8 fixtures |
| Max Channels Per Fixture | 16 channels | 12 channels |
| Total Scenes | 240 scenes | not listed |
| Chase Steps | 240 scenes per chase | 999 steps per chase |
| Weight | 6.71 pounds | 4 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Chauvet DJ Obey40 DMX Controller if
- You need to control more than eight fixtures simultaneously.
- You require detailed control over 16-channel fixtures.
- You want built-in fog and strobe management.
Choose Chauvet DJ Obey 10 Compact DMX Controller if
- You prefer a lighter, more compact unit for travel.
- You only need to manage up to eight fixtures.
- You want longer chase sequences with up to 999 steps.
Verdict: Choose the Obey 40 if you are running a larger rig with many fixtures or need extra control features like fog management. Pick the Obey 10 if you prioritize portability and simpler operation for smaller shows. Both units handle basic DMX tasks effectively.
Obey40 vs Obey10 Spec Breakdown
DMX channel capacity
The Chauvet DJ Obey40 DMX Controller supports 192 DMX channels of control. This allows you to manage up to 12 fixtures with 16 channels each. In contrast, the Chauvet DJ Obey 10 Compact DMX Controller offers 96 DMX channels. It controls up to 8 intelligent lights with up to 12 channels each. The Obey40 provides double the channel count. This gives you more flexibility for larger setups. The Obey10 is sufficient for smaller, simpler rigs. If you need to run many fixtures, the higher capacity is critical. You must choose based on your total fixture count and channel requirements.
scene storage
Scene storage differs significantly between these two units. The Obey40 features 30 banks with 8 scenes each. This totals up to 240 stored scenes. You can quickly access these looks during a set. The Obey10 does not list specific bank and scene counts in its data. It focuses on chase steps instead. It offers 6 sets of chases with 999 steps each. This structure is different from static scene storage. If you rely on pre-programmed static looks, the Obey40 offers clear storage metrics. The Obey10 emphasizes sequential chase steps over fixed scene banks.
chase programming
Both controllers include chase capabilities for dynamic lighting effects. The Obey40 includes 6 sets of chases containing up to 240 scenes. This allows dynamic sequencing across programmed scenes. The Obey10 offers 6 sets of chases with 999 steps each. This provides a higher step count per chase set. The Obey10 allows sequential linking of chases. This feature is not explicitly detailed for the Obey40 in the provided data. If you need long, continuous sequences, the Obey10 offers more steps. The Obey40 limits chase scenes to 240 total across its sets.
physical dimensions
Size and portability vary between the two models. The Obey40 measures 21.8 inches in length, 7.5 inches in width, and 4.75 inches in height. The Obey10 measures 22.2 inches in length, 6 inches in width, and 4.7 inches in height. The Obey10 is narrower, making it slightly more compact in width. The Obey40 is slightly shorter in length. Both units are relatively similar in overall footprint. The Obey10 is marketed as a compact controller. You might prefer the Obey10 if width is a constraint for your rig. The length difference is minimal for most transport cases.
weight
Weight is a practical consideration for touring or portable use. The Obey40 weighs 6.71 pounds. The Obey10 weighs 4 pounds. The Obey10 is significantly lighter by more than 2 pounds. This difference matters if you carry equipment frequently. The lighter weight reduces fatigue during setup and teardown. The Obey40 is heavier, likely due to its expanded internal components for higher channel count. If you prioritize a lightweight controller for mobile gigs, the Obey10 is the better choice. The weight difference is substantial enough to influence your decision.
additional control features
The Obey40 includes additional control features not listed for the Obey10. It supports fog and strobe control for expanded effect management. It also includes MIDI compatibility for external integration. These features allow you to sync lighting with audio or control other devices. The Obey10 data does not mention fog, strobe, or MIDI support. It focuses on standard DMX control. If you need to control fog machines or integrate with MIDI gear, the Obey40 is necessary. The Obey10 lacks these specific integration options in the provided specifications.
Which Chauvet DJ Obey Controller Fits You
Users needing extensive scene storage
The Obey 40 provides 30 banks with 8 scenes each, totaling 240 stored looks. It also includes 6 chase sets with up to 240 scenes for dynamic sequencing. This capacity supports complex programming and quick access to varied lighting effects during longer performances or intricate shows.
Those prioritizing portability
The Obey 10 Compact weighs only 4 pounds, making it significantly lighter than the 6.71-pound Obey 40. Its smaller width of 6 inches also aids in tight packing. This reduced weight and footprint make it ideal for DJs who transport gear frequently and need a lightweight solution.
Professionals managing many fixtures
The Obey 40 supports 192 DMX channels, allowing control of up to 12 fixtures with 16 channels each. This expanded capacity enables detailed management across multiple intelligent lights. It is designed for organized and scalable lighting systems where precise control over a larger number of fixtures is essential.
The products compared
Chauvet DJ Obey40 DMX Controller
Best for: complex multi-fixture DMX lighting setups
- Fixture Type
- DMX Controller
- DMX Channels
- 192 channels
- Features
- DMX Control
- Dimensions
- 21.8 × 7.5 × 4.75 inches
- Weight
- 6.71 pounds
View on Amazon: Chauvet DJ Obey40 DMX Controller Affiliate link
The Chauvet DJ OBEY40 manages up to 12 fixtures with 192 total DMX channels. It stores 240 scenes across 30 banks and includes 6 chase sets. You get fog and strobe control alongside MIDI compatibility. The reversible sliders adjust to your hand position. This unit suits users needing scalable lighting programming for larger setups.
Pros
- Controls up to 12 fixtures with 192 DMX channels
- Stores 240 scenes in 30 banks
- Includes 6 chase sets for dynamic sequencing
- Features MIDI compatibility for external integration
Cons
- Larger physical footprint at 21.8 inches long
- Heavier build at 6.71 pounds
- Requires external DMX fixtures for operation
Good fit if
- You need to control more than a few lights
- You want to store complex scene banks
- You require MIDI integration for external gear
Skip if
- You need a compact portable controller
- You only control a single fixture
- You prefer a lighter, smaller device
Verdict: The Chauvet DJ OBEY40 DMX Controller delivers high channel counts and extensive scene storage for complex setups. It fits users who need scalable DMX management rather than simple single-light control.
Chauvet DJ Obey 10 Compact DMX Controller
Best for: small setups with few moving lights
- DMX Channels
- 96 channels
- Form Factor
- Portable
- Features
- DMX Control
- Dimensions
- 22.2 × 6 × 4.7 inches
- Weight
- 4 pounds
View on Amazon: Chauvet DJ Obey 10 Compact DMX Controller Affiliate link
The Chauvet DJ Obey 10 is a universal DMX-512 controller designed for compact setups. It measures 6 inches wide and 4.7 inches high, weighing 4 pounds. The unit controls up to 8 intelligent lights with 12 channels each, providing 96 total DMX channels. It features 6 sets of chases with 999 steps each and allows sequential linking. This small blue controller suits users needing portable, dedicated DMX management without bulk.
Pros
- Compact dimensions of 6 x 4.7 x 22.2 inches
- Controls up to 8 intelligent lights
- Offers 96 DMX channels of control
- Supports 6 sets of chases with 999 steps
Cons
- Limited to 8 intelligent lights maximum
- No display screen mentioned in specifications
- Fixed blue color limits aesthetic integration
Good fit if
- You need a small footprint for tight spaces
- You require basic DMX chase sequencing
- You control fewer than 8 moving lights
Skip if
- You need to control more than 8 lights
- You require advanced visual feedback on a screen
- You prefer a larger, more robust build
Verdict: Chauvet DJ Obey 10 Compact DMX Controller fits small venues or practice spaces where space is tight and channel count stays low. It delivers essential DMX control without extra bulk.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Chauvet DJ Obey40 DMX Controller | Chauvet DJ Obey 10 Compact DMX Controller |
|---|---|---|
| Fixture Type | DMX Controller | not stated |
| DMX Channels | 192 channels | 96 channels |
| Form Factor | not stated | Portable |
| Features | DMX Control | DMX Control |
| Dimensions | 21.8 × 7.5 × 4.75 inches | 22.2 × 6 × 4.7 inches |
| Weight | 6.71 pounds | 4 pounds |
| Model | OBEY40 | OBEY10 |
| Color | not stated | Blue |
Frequently asked questions
Which Chauvet DJ controller is better for small venues?
The Chauvet DJ Obey 10 is the better choice for small venues. It has a compact form factor with a width of 6 inches. The unit weighs only 4 pounds, making it easy to transport. This size fits tight spaces where the larger Obey 40 would be cumbersome. It delivers essential DMX control without extra bulk for limited setups.
How much does the Obey 40 weigh compared to the Obey 10?
The Obey 40 weighs 6.71 pounds, while the Obey 10 weighs 4 pounds. The Obey 40 is heavier due to its larger chassis and internal components. The Obey 10 is lighter and more portable. You should choose the Obey 10 if weight is a primary concern for your travel needs.
What are the physical dimensions of the Obey 40 controller?
The Obey 40 measures 21.8 inches in length, 7.5 inches in width, and 4.75 inches in height. These dimensions make it a substantial desktop unit. It requires more desk space than the Obey 10. The larger footprint supports its higher channel count and scene storage capabilities for complex lighting rigs.
Is the Obey 10 controller portable enough for gigging DJs?
Yes, the Obey 10 is designed for portability. It features a compact form factor and weighs just 4 pounds. Its length is 22.2 inches, which is similar to the Obey 40. However, its smaller width of 6 inches makes it easier to fit in bags. It is ideal for users who need to move gear frequently.
Can the Obey 40 handle complex multi-fixture DMX setups?
Yes, the Obey 40 is built for complex setups. It supports 192 DMX channels, allowing you to manage up to 12 fixtures with 16 channels each. This high channel count provides scalable DMX management. It fits users who need extensive control over intelligent lighting fixtures rather than simple single-light control.
What is the color option for the Obey 10 controller?
The Obey 10 Compact DMX Controller is available in blue. This color option helps you identify the unit quickly in low-light environments. The Obey 40 does not have a specified color in its data. The blue finish on the Obey 10 is a distinct visual feature for this compact model.

