ChamSys MagicQ Stadium Connect

Product Overview

The ChamSys MagicQ Stadium Connect is a PC-based lighting control surface that pairs the full motorised playback hardware of the MQ250M and MQ500M with the processing of a host computer. This lighting control surface outputs 64 universes direct from MagicQ over Art-Net and sACN and pre-visualises up to 400 universes for offline programming. With 10 motorised faders, 10 playback encoders, and dual crossfaders, it provides extensive hands-on control for concert and touring, theatre, and broadcast programmers working on the go. It is a portable lighting controller for crews who already run a capable laptop or PC.

Product Description

The Stadium Connect delivers the same programming keyset and dual 100mm crossfaders as the flagship Stadium consoles in a lightweight 8.7kg surface that connects to a Windows, macOS, or Linux computer. The host PC runs the full MagicQ Stadium software while the Connect provides the tactile control: 10 fully motorised fader playbacks and 10 playback encoders with executors, multiplied across banks for substantial programmable real estate.

All 64 output universes are available direct from MagicQ PC over the industry-standard sACN, Art-Net, and Pathport protocols, with no additional processing nodes required, while 400 visualisation universes support full offline pre-programming. The single network port acts as the network interface for the PC, and four direct DMX outputs are provided. Backlit keys and RGB-illuminated fader tracks and encoders let lighting designers visibly configure the surface for each show and separate cue types.

Audio sound-to-light input, MIDI in and out, LTC timecode in and out, and a 10Scene port provide synchronisation and integration with show control systems. Show files are fully compatible between the Stadium Connect, MQ250M, MQ500M, and all other ChamSys consoles, both forward and backward across software versions, simplifying AV system integration across a fleet. Two dedicated high-power USB ports allow charging of phones and tablets at the surface.

Key Features

• PC-Based Control Surface — The Connect provides full motorised playback hardware while a Windows, macOS, or Linux host PC runs MagicQ Stadium software.
• 64 Universes Direct, 400 Pre-Vis — It outputs 64 universes direct over Art-Net and sACN and pre-visualises up to 400 universes for complete offline programming.
• Motorised Faders and Encoders — Ten motorised fader playbacks and ten playback encoders, multiplied across banks, provide extensive direct access to cues and masters.
• Dual 100mm Crossfaders — Manual 100mm crossfaders with prominent GO and BACK buttons deliver dedicated theatre-style cue control.
• RGB-Illuminated Controls — Backlit keys and RGB-illuminated fader tracks and encoders let designers visibly configure functions and distinguish cue types.
• Cross-Platform Software Support — MagicQ runs on Windows 8.1 or higher, macOS 12 or higher, and Linux, giving flexibility in the host computer choice.
• Show Control Integration — Audio sound-to-light, MIDI in and out, LTC timecode in and out, and a 10Scene port support synchronisation with show control systems.
• Cross-Console Show Compatibility — Show files are compatible across the Stadium Connect, MQ250M, MQ500M, and all ChamSys consoles, both forward and backward across versions.
• High-Power USB Charging — Two dedicated high-power USB ports allow charging of phones and tablets directly at the surface.

Typical Applications

• Concert and touring production
• Theatre and auditorium
• Broadcast studio lighting
• House of worship
• Live events and multi-purpose performance venues

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Stadium Connect require a separate computer?

Yes. It is a PC-based control surface; the host computer running MagicQ software handles processing, while the Connect provides the motorised faders, encoders, and crossfaders.

How many universes can it output and visualise?

The surface outputs 64 universes direct from MagicQ over Art-Net and sACN, and supports up to 400 visualisation universes for offline pre-programming.

Which operating systems are supported?

MagicQ software runs on Windows 8.1 or higher, macOS 12 or higher, and Linux, so the host computer can be chosen to suit the production.

Are show files compatible with ChamSys consoles?

Show files are fully compatible across the Stadium Connect, MQ250M, MQ500M, and all other ChamSys consoles, both forward and backward across software versions.

What show control integration does it offer?

It provides audio sound-to-light input, MIDI in and out, LTC timecode in and out, and a 10Scene port for synchronisation with show control systems.

How does the network port work?

The single network port acts as the network interface for the connected PC, carrying Art-Net and sACN output to the lighting network alongside the four direct DMX outputs.

What support and warranty resources are available?

ChamSys provides cutsheets, brochures, 3D models, and training resources through its support channels; confirm warranty terms and service with Creation Networks at the time of purchase.