Chauvet DJ OBEY40 Universal DMX Light/Fog vs Chauvet DJ Obey 70 Universal DMX-512 (2026): Key Differences
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The chauvet dj obey40 universal dmx light fog vs obey 70 universal dmx 512 comparison helps you choose the right controller for your setup. Both units offer 240 scene storage and support up to 12 intelligent fixtures. They share a similar physical footprint and basic DMX control capabilities. The main difference lies in their channel capacity. The Obey 70 doubles the total DMX channels available compared to the Obey 40. This impacts how many complex fixtures you can manage simultaneously.
Key differences
| Aspect | Chauvet DJ Obey40 DMX Controller | Chauvet DJ Obey 70 DMX Controller |
|---|---|---|
| Total DMX Channels | 192 channels | 384 channels |
| Max Channels Per Fixture | 16 channels | 32 channels |
| Additional Control Features | Fog, strobe, and MIDI compatibility | Program fade and speed time into each step |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 21.8 x 7.5 x 4.75 inches | 22.6 x 9.06 x 4.57 inches |
| Weight | 6.71 pounds | 6.9 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Chauvet DJ Obey40 DMX Controller if
- You need fog and strobe control directly from the unit
- You require MIDI compatibility for external integration
- You prefer a slightly more compact and lighter device
Choose Chauvet DJ Obey 70 DMX Controller if
- You control fixtures with more than 16 channels each
- You need double the total DMX channel capacity
- You want to program fade and speed times into each step
Verdict: Choose the Obey 40 if your setup uses simpler fixtures and you need integrated fog or strobe control. The Obey 70 is the better choice if you drive high-channel-count intelligent lights or require double the channel capacity. Both handle basic scene playback equally well.
Obey 40 vs Obey 70 Comparison
DMX Channel Capacity
The Chauvet DJ Obey 40 DMX Controller provides 192 DMX channels of control. It supports up to 12 fixtures with 16 channels each. The Chauvet DJ Obey 70 DMX Controller offers 384 DMX channels. It also supports 12 fixtures, but allows up to 32 channels per fixture. This double capacity in the Obey 70 allows for more complex intelligent light setups. You get significantly more control over individual channels with the larger unit. The Obey 40 is sufficient for smaller, simpler stage configurations.
Scene and Chase Storage
Both controllers share identical storage capabilities for your lighting programs. The Chauvet DJ Obey 40 DMX Controller features 30 banks with 8 scenes each, totaling 240 scenes. It also includes 6 sets of chases containing up to 240 scenes. The Chauvet DJ Obey 70 DMX Controller matches this exactly. It also offers 30 banks of 8 scenes for 240 scenes max. Both units include 6 sets of chases containing 240 scenes. You can store and recall the same amount of content on either device without any difference in capacity.
Fixture Channel Support
The difference in fixture support lies in the channel limit per light. The Chauvet DJ Obey 40 DMX Controller is designed for fixtures with up to 16 channels each. This covers many standard moving heads and LEDs. The Chauvet DJ Obey 70 DMX Controller supports fixtures with up to 32 channels each. This accommodates more complex intelligent lights with more parameters. If you use high-end fixtures with many control parameters, the Obey 70 is necessary. The Obey 40 may limit you if your lights exceed 16 channels.
Physical Dimensions and Weight
The physical footprint differs slightly between the two units. The Chauvet DJ Obey 40 DMX Controller measures 21.8 inches in length, 7.5 inches in width, and 4.75 inches in height. It weighs 6.71 pounds. The Chauvet DJ Obey 70 DMX Controller is slightly larger at 22.6 inches long, 9.06 inches wide, and 4.57 inches high. It weighs 6.9 pounds. The Obey 40 is narrower and lighter. The Obey 70 is wider and slightly heavier. Both are portable, but the Obey 40 is more compact for transport.
Control Features and Interface
The Chauvet DJ Obey 40 DMX Controller includes additional control features like fog and strobe control. It also offers MIDI compatibility for external integration. It features reversible sliders for operator preference. The Chauvet DJ Obey 70 DMX Controller data highlights program fade and speed time into each step. It does not explicitly mention fog, strobe, or MIDI in the provided features. Both support DMX control. The Obey 40 appears to offer more external integration options like MIDI. The Obey 70 focuses on step timing parameters.
Choose the right Obey for you
Users needing maximum channel capacity
The Obey 70 supports 384 DMX channels. This allows control of up to 12 fixtures with 32 channels each. If your setup uses high-channel intelligent lights, this controller provides the necessary headroom. It handles complex setups better than the Obey 40, which is limited to 16 channels per fixture.
Operators preferring reversible sliders
The Obey 40 includes reversible sliders. This feature lets you adjust the orientation to match your ergonomic preference. It also offers MIDI compatibility for external integration. If you value tactile control flexibility and external gear connection, this model offers specific interface advantages over the Obey 70.
Users wanting fog and strobe control
The Obey 40 adds fog and strobe control capabilities. This expands your effect management beyond just lighting fixtures. If you need to manage fog machines or strobes directly from the controller, this model provides those additional functions. The Obey 70 focuses purely on DMX channel management without these extra effect controls.
The products compared
Chauvet DJ Obey40 DMX Controller
Best for: Moderate lighting setups needing scene storage
- 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 16 channels each, totaling 192 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 adapt to your setup. This unit suits users needing structured programming for moderate-sized lighting rigs.
Pros
- Controls up to 192 DMX channels
- Stores 240 scenes in 30 banks
- Includes 6 chase sets with 240 scenes
- Offers fog and strobe control
- Features reversible sliders for flexibility
Cons
- Smaller capacity than the Obey 70
- Heavier at 6.71 pounds
- No app or remote control listed
Good fit if
- You need to control up to 12 fixtures
- You want structured scene playback
- You require fog and strobe integration
Skip if
- You need more than 192 channels
- You prefer wireless app control
- You want the largest available capacity
Verdict: The Chauvet DJ Obey40 DMX Controller provides robust channel management for moderate setups. It fits users who prioritize scene storage and fog control over maximum fixture capacity.
Chauvet DJ Obey 70 DMX Controller
Best for: Complex multi-light DMX setups
- 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 controller for managing up to 12 intelligent lights. It offers 30 banks of 8 scenes, totaling 240 scenes, and supports 384 DMX channels. You can program fade and speed times for each step. This unit measures 22.6 by 9.06 inches and weighs 6.9 pounds. It suits users needing extensive scene memory and precise timing control for complex light shows.
Pros
- Stores 240 scenes across 30 banks
- Controls up to 12 intelligent lights
- Allows fade and speed programming per step
- Supports 384 DMX channels
Cons
- Heavier build at 6.9 pounds
- Larger footprint than the Obey 40
- No mention of wireless connectivity
Good fit if
- You need to control multiple intelligent fixtures
- You require detailed fade and speed programming
- You want extensive scene storage options
Skip if
- You prefer a lighter, more compact unit
- You need wireless control capabilities
- You only control a single light
Verdict: Chauvet DJ Obey 70 DMX Controller is ideal for DJs managing complex multi-light setups with detailed timing needs. Its large scene memory and channel capacity support professional-grade shows.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Chauvet DJ Obey40 DMX Controller | Chauvet DJ Obey 70 DMX Controller |
|---|---|---|
| Fixture Type | DMX Controller | not stated |
| DMX Channels | 192 channels | 384 channels |
| Features | DMX Control | DMX Control |
| Dimensions | 21.8 × 7.5 × 4.75 inches | 22.6 × 9.06 × 4.57 inches |
| Weight | 6.71 pounds | 6.9 pounds |
| Model | OBEY40 | Obey 70 |
| Color | not stated | Black |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Chauvet DJ Obey 70 bigger than the Obey 40?
Yes, the Obey 70 has slightly larger dimensions. It measures 9.06 inches in width and 22.6 inches in length. The Obey 40 is narrower at 7.5 inches wide and shorter at 21.8 inches long. Both units are roughly the same height, around 4.5 to 4.75 inches. The physical difference is minimal but noticeable when fitting them into tight racks.
Do both controllers weigh the same?
The weights are very close but not identical. The Obey 70 weighs 6.9 pounds. The Obey 40 is slightly lighter at 6.71 pounds. This small difference likely comes from the minor size variations. Neither unit is heavy enough to cause handling issues during transport. You can carry either one with ease.
What is the main difference in DMX channels between these models?
The Obey 70 supports twice as many DMX channels as the Obey 40. It offers 384 channels of control. The Obey 40 provides 192 channels. This means the Obey 70 can handle more complex fixtures or more fixtures with higher channel counts. If you use 32-channel lights, only the Obey 70 can manage twelve of them.
Can I use these controllers for fog machines?
Yes, both units are designed for universal DMX control, which includes fog machines. The Obey 40 is explicitly marketed as a light and fog controller. The Obey 70 also handles DMX-512 signals, allowing you to integrate fog effects into your lighting scenes. You can program fog cues alongside your intelligent fixtures on either device.
Which controller is better for moderate lighting setups?
The Obey 40 is ideal for moderate setups. It provides 192 DMX channels, which is sufficient for up to twelve 16-channel fixtures. It fits users who prioritize scene storage and basic fog control over maximum capacity. If your show does not require high-channel intelligent lights, the Obey 40 offers robust management without unnecessary complexity.
Is the Obey 70 better for complex multi-light shows?
The Obey 70 is built for complex multi-light DMX setups. Its 384 DMX channel capacity supports detailed timing needs for professional-grade shows. It allows control of up to twelve 32-channel fixtures. If your production involves high-channel intelligent lights or intricate cueing, the Obey 70 provides the necessary headroom and precision.
Do both models support the same number of scenes?
Yes, both controllers offer 240 scene storage options. This allows you to save and recall numerous lighting states during a performance. The difference lies in how many channels each scene can control. The Obey 70 allows more data per scene due to its higher channel count. Both provide ample memory for most gig requirements.