Many have requested package solutions and this is the closest we can get to that. A list of items needed for the different controllers to get them up and running has been created, you can use this list to avoid unforeseen costs.
NOTE: Many of the items are not available on this site as stock items.
Overview of controllers:
Below are links to the different shopping lists:
Recommendation
Here I will review my opinion on the controllers:
The K8-B is a great little controller, with its 8 local outputs it can handle most things. If you don’t want sound for your show, it’s a good first controller. On the other hand, if you want sound, you should look at the K16A-B. I can definitely recommend the K8-B as a second controller for the show as it’s compact and has many features.
The K16A-B is a great starter controller, with its 16 local pixel ports and room for expansion. It has the option to add speakers or an FM transmitter. It has all the features you need as a beginner, but there are also options for more advanced use. The price is on the low end and you get a lot for your money. See a picture HERE.
K32A-B is a controller intended for areas with many pixels, as in a very large megatree. It has the option to add speakers or an FM transmitter. However, I wouldn’t say that the controller is for the beginner, as most people don’t need 32 ports in one place.
The K40-D is a flexible controller as you connect Differential Receivers and they can be placed tactically in the show. It has great expandability and is a good controller for the beginner. If you want lights, you need to connect an external sound card as it is not built-in. I can definitely recommend it as you are flexible from year to year as you can move the Differential Receivers around in the show.
Pixels
In addition to a controller, you’ll of course also need pixels. You can choose between strings, spots, icicles or LED-Strip, you can see the full range HERE.
Many people forget to buy end caps to make their pigtails waterproof when not in use. They are used on unused outputs from the controller or at the end of a string of pixels.
Coro props
Coro pros is a piece of 10mm coro plastic that is cut into shapes with holes for pixels. It’s a practical and very popular way to mount pixels, most people use this as it also saves a lot of time. The selection can be seen HERE.
Cable between Controller and pixels:
You can make your own cables with sets of pigtails and loose cable or buy them ready-made with pigtails on both ends in fixed or customized lengths.
If you make the cables yourself, you can use rubber cable or other outdoor cable with 3 conductors. When making the cables, solder a male and female pigtail to the ends of the cable.
Network cable Cat 5/6
If the controller does not have WiFi, a network cable is also needed to supply/connect the controller to a network. In addition, network cables are also used to connect the controller and Differential Receivers.
Tools:
Having the right tools is a great help, here I will mention tools that I have had great success using:
Step drill bit Used for drilling holes for glands and network cable pass-throughs in controller boxes, a step drill is very precise and ensures that the box does not crack.
The lists are indicative, but will be updated if something is missing.
If you think something is missing from the lists, I would love to hear from you 🙂
