ChamSys MagicQ Compact Connect USB Lighting/Media Control Surface
ChamSys MagicQ Compact Connect USB Lighting/Media Control Surface is backordered and will ship as soon as it is back in stock.
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Product Overview
The ChamSys MagicQ Compact Connect is a lightweight USB lighting control surface that pairs with a PC or Mac to control lighting, media, and LED fixtures. As a portable USB control surface for MagicQ, it brings tactile playback control to touring lighting designers and to fixed installations in theatres, schools, clubs, and studios. It outputs two direct DMX512 ports and up to 64 universes of Art-Net and sACN from its onboard network port with no additional licenses or dongles. Small enough for hand luggage, it suits both mobile production and commercial deployment.
Product Description
MagicQ Compact Connect provides a hardware playback surface for the free MagicQ software running on Windows, macOS, or Linux. It connects to a computer over USB and delivers two direct DMX512 outputs supporting RDM, plus up to 64 universes of Art-Net and sACN through its onboard network port, with no licenses or dongles required.
The surface gives operators illuminated access to fixture parameters through eight rotary encoders and live control through ten playback faders, each with Flash, Go, and Select buttons. A dedicated grand master and crossfader handle overall level control. An internal USB hub with four USB-A outputs, a 7-band audio input, a 10Scene/remote input port, and a working light socket add connectivity for both touring and installed use.
Power is supplied through a locking Neutrik powerCON TRUE1 connector accepting 110 to 240 VAC, with low 15w consumption. A Kensington security lock fixing supports installation in fixed venues. Because it runs full MagicQ software, the Compact Connect supports up to 32768 channels, pixel mapping, and media playback, making it a cost-effective tactile front end for a software-based lighting rig.
Key Features
- USB control surface for MagicQ — Connects to a PC or Mac to add tactile playback control to the free MagicQ software on Windows, macOS, or Linux.
- 64 universes over the network — Outputs up to 64 universes of Art-Net and sACN from the onboard network port with no extra licenses or dongles.
- Two direct DMX outputs — Provide RDM-enabled DMX512 for direct fixture connection alongside networked output.
- Ten playback faders — Each include Flash, Go, and Select buttons for live show control during a performance.
- Eight rotary encoders — Give illuminated access to fixture parameters for fast attribute adjustment.
- Internal USB hub and connectivity — Add four USB-A outputs, audio input, a 10Scene/remote port, and a working light socket.
- Locking powerCON TRUE1 input — Accepts 110 to 240 VAC with low 15w consumption for reliable touring and installed power.
- Hand-luggage portable — Fits hand-luggage restrictions while including a Kensington lock fixing for fixed installations.
Typical Applications
- Touring and live events lighting control
- Theatre and auditorium installations
- School and education performance spaces
- Broadcast studios
- Nightclubs and bars
- Multi-purpose rooms and commercial venues
Technical Specifications
| Direct DMX Outputs | 2 |
| Fader Playbacks | 10 |
| Attribute Encoders | 8 |
| USB Ports | 5 (4 USB-A output, 1 USB-C input) |
| Network Ports | 1 |
| Audio Input (1 channel, 7 band) | Yes |
| 10Scene Input | Yes |
| Kensington Security Lock Fixing | Yes |
| Working Light Port | Yes |
| Power Input | Neutrik powerCON TRUE1, 110 to 240 VAC |
| Max Power Consumption (mains) | 15w |
| Universes | 64 |
| Max DMX Channels | 32768 |
| Max Fixtures Supported | 32768 |
| Max Cues | 5000 |
| Max Cue Stacks | 2000 |
| Max Groups | 5000 |
| Max Palettes | 4096 |
| Media Server Layers Supported | 50 (each different content) |
| OS Compatibility | Windows 8.1+, macOS 10.13+, Linux |
| Console Dimensions (W x D x H) | 522mm x 230mm x 65mm |
| Console Weight | 3.65kg (8 lb) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Compact Connect need a license or dongle for network output?
No. It outputs up to 64 universes of Art-Net and sACN directly from its onboard network port without any additional licenses or dongles.
What computers does it work with?
It connects over USB to the free MagicQ software running on Windows 8.1 or higher, macOS 10.13 or higher, or Linux.
Can it be secured in a fixed installation?
Yes. The surface includes a Kensington security lock fixing for installed use, while remaining light enough to fit hand-luggage restrictions for touring.
How is the Compact Connect powered?
It uses a locking Neutrik powerCON TRUE1 input accepting 110 to 240 VAC, with low 15w power consumption from its internal supply.
Does it integrate with other control inputs?
Yes. It provides a 10Scene/remote input port, MIDI in and out, a 7-band audio input, and an internal USB hub for connecting additional peripherals.
What warranty and support are available?
The Compact Connect ships with a limited 2-year manufacturer warranty. Contact Creation Networks for integration, deployment, and support guidance.
At Creartion Networks, we do everything we can to create an excellent customer experience. This includes fast shipping and easy returns.
- Most in-stock orders placed Monday-Friday ship within 24-48 hours. General restrictions apply; please see our full shipping policy here.
- We offer a 30-day return policy from the delivery date on many products. Product restrictions apply. Restocking fees for the return of open-box items. Please see our full return policy here for more information.
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