Introduction: The Art of Programming in Tight Spaces

Compact lighting consoles have become essential tools in today’s fast-paced lighting environments. Whether used for small venues, touring flypacks, DJ sets, or corporate events, these consoles pack surprising power into minimal footprints. But mastering them—especially when recording playback cues—requires careful technique.

This article explores how to efficiently record, edit, and organize playback cues on compact lighting consoles, ensuring professional results even in space-limited setups.

What Are Playback Cues?

Playback cues are pre-programmed lighting states or sequences that can be triggered during a show. They may include:

• Intensity fades

• Color changes

• Movement paths (pan/tilt)

• Effect chases

• Gobo transitions

• Cue stacks with timing and follow instructions

On compact consoles, playback cues are usually assigned to faders, buttons, or touchscreen virtual executors.

Key Limitations of Compact Consoles

While modern compact consoles (e.g., ETC Colorsource, ChamSys QuickQ, MA3 Compact XT, Avolites Titan Mobile) offer impressive capabilities, they have some practical constraints:

• Limited physical faders and buttons

• Fewer universes or output channels

• Smaller touchscreens

• Reduced layer depth (fewer pages/submasters)

• No external monitors or keyboard input (in some cases)

Thus, organizing playback cues becomes more critical than on a full-size desk.

Step-by-Step: Recording Playback Cues

1. Patch and Label Fixtures First

Before recording cues:

• Patch all fixtures correctly

• Assign fixture groups (e.g., “Stage Wash”, “Backlight”, “FX Movers”)

• Label groups and positions clearly for quick recall

Compact consoles thrive on smart labeling and efficient fixture navigation.

2. Build a Look Using Programmer or Live Controls

Activate desired attributes using intensity faders, color pickers, gobo wheels, pan/tilt encoders, or touchscreen options.

Ensure you’re not recording unnecessary parameters. Use tools like:

• “Clear All” before starting

• “Include Only” to restrict attributes

• Filter by function (e.g., Intensity only)

3. Record to a Playback Executor

Once your look is ready:

• Press [Record]

• Select an available playback fader or button

• Name the cue (e.g., “Scene 1 - Red Wash”)

Some consoles allow:

• Cue stacks (multiple steps in one playback)

• Single step playbacks for quick transitions

• Chases or effects triggered from buttons

4. Choose Trigger and Timing Options

Playback behavior can vary:

• LTP vs. HTP priority (e.g., latest takes priority vs. highest wins)

• Fade and delay times

• Go-on-release, Latch, or Flash behavior

• Priority over other cues (useful for blind overrides or solos)

On consoles like ChamSys or Avolites, cue properties can be accessed and edited by holding [View Cue] or similar.

5. Organize with Pages and Labels

Since compact consoles offer fewer executors:

• Group related cues on the same page

• Use naming conventions (e.g., “S1.Intro”, “S1.FX”, “S2.Wash”)

• Label pages by scene, song, or sequence section

On touchscreens, label virtual buttons with icons or color for faster recognition during shows.

6. Test Your Playback

Always run playback tests:

• Check timing and transitions

• Confirm cue overwrites or priority levels

• Ensure nothing “sticks” unexpectedly (e.g., effects not clearing)

Use a test fixture or output visualizer (if available) to simulate cue transitions before performance.

Advanced Playback Techniques

Macro Assignments

Many consoles allow basic macro behavior:

• Triggering another cue or chase

• Resetting fixture attributes

• Fading out other playbacks when one starts

Assigning macros to cues reduces manual steps and ensures smoother transitions.

Intensity Masters

Assign playback faders as intensity-only masters:

• Cue stack remains active, but fader controls brightness

• Helpful for background washes or audience blinders

Busking with Flash/Go Buttons

If programming time is limited, record flash hits or intensity pops to playback buttons. Use them during shows to:

• Pop white effects

• Hit beats with strobes

• Override with spot focus

This busking approach suits DJs, festivals, and corporate gigs.

Cue Stack Linking

Link multiple playback cues to fire sequentially or automatically:

• “Go after delay” triggers next cue after X seconds

• Link with music/timecode (on advanced consoles)

Even small consoles support basic linking, enabling dynamic scene builds in one fader.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Tips for Efficient Use

• Back up frequently via USB or cloud

• Use fixture groups to speed programming

• Keep a paper cue list in case of touchscreen failure

• Name cues descriptively to avoid mid-show confusion

• Use rehearsal time to rehearse paging and cue recalls

Ideal Use Cases for Compact Consoles

• Small to mid-sized theatres

• Portable church lighting rigs

• Temporary event setups

• Streaming or broadcast rooms

• Festival busking rigs

• Touring opener acts

Compact doesn’t mean compromised—it means intentional. With planning and mastery, even limited hardware can support sophisticated cue workflows.

Conclusion: Big Looks from a Small Console

Recording playback cues on compact lighting consoles is all about efficiency, creativity, and preparation. These small-format desks are more powerful than ever, but demand a thoughtful approach to cue organization and trigger structure.

When time, space, or budget are tight, compact consoles can still deliver professional-grade results. By mastering playback workflows—whether through layered faders, cue stacks, or smart macros—lighting operators ensure smooth, impactful performances with minimal hardware.

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