Beyond the Mouse: Building a Professional Modular Controller for DMX Lighting

The Gap in Modern Lighting Control: Precision vs. Portability

In the world of professional lighting, control is everything. You're orchestrating complex visual experiences, whether for a live concert, a theatrical masterpiece, or a high-stakes video shoot. Your tools are powerful—software like MA onPC, QLC+, or Resolume gives you command over hundreds of DMX universes. Yet, the physical interface often falls short. You're either tethered to a large, expensive console or left fumbling with a mouse and keyboard, sacrificing tactile precision for portability. This compromise slows down your workflow, stifles creativity, and introduces a point of failure when you can least afford it.

What if you could build the exact control surface you need for every job? A compact, road-worthy rig for a mobile gig. A comprehensive desk for a complex installation. A simple, intuitive panel for a client hand-off. This is the problem modue was designed to solve: providing a professional-grade, modular control hub that adapts to your specific lighting workflow, not the other way around.

modue: A Modular Command Center for DMX

modue is not another fixed-layout MIDI controller. It's a system of interconnected modules, each designed for a specific type of control, that you can combine to create a truly custom interface. By connecting to your computer via USB-C, modue acts as a high-precision bridge to your preferred DMX control software, translating your physical actions into flawless lighting changes.

Built from anodized 6061 aluminum and tempered glass, every module is engineered for the rigors of professional use. This isn't a plastic toy; it's a tool built for demanding environments where reliability is non-negotiable.

The Right Module for Every Task

A lighting designer's needs are diverse. You need smooth fades, instant bumps, and precise parameter adjustments. A one-size-fits-all controller can't excel at everything. With modue, you choose the tools for the job.

• The Slide Module: Featuring a 45mm motorized fader, the Slide is perfect for master dimmers, effect speeds, or controlling haze/fog output. The motorized feedback is a critical feature; when you change scenes in your software, the fader physically moves to its new position, ensuring your hardware is always in sync with your digital environment. No more unexpected jumps or manual re-matching.
• The Spin Module: With three high-resolution rotary encoders, Spin is your go-to for fine-tuning parameters. Dial in precise RGBW color values, adjust gobo rotation and indexing, or control pan/tilt speeds with satisfying tactile feedback. The integrated push-button and LED rings can be mapped to select fixtures, change modes, or provide visual feedback on parameter states.
• The Click Module: For actions that need to be instant and definite, the Click module offers five mechanical switches. Map them to your most important functions: scene bumps, strobes, blackouts, or triggering specific media in Resolume. The swappable Gateron switches give you the exact feel you prefer.
• The One Touch Module: As the core of your setup, the One Touch module's touchscreen provides a visual layout of your entire rig. Create custom pages of shortcuts to trigger complex macros, select fixture groups, or run pre-programmed sequences. Forget labeling tape—your controls are clearly displayed and can change dynamically for each show.

Real-World Workflows, Reimagined

Let's move from features to practical application. How does modue fit into a professional B2B environment?

For the Touring Lighting Director (LD)

The Problem: You need a compact but powerful 'wing' for your laptop running MA onPC or Chamsys MagicQ. The house console isn't always accessible or configured for your show file.

The modue Solution: Build a custom wing with two Slide modules for group masters, a Spin module for color and position palettes, and a Click module for your main cue list and busking bumps. The entire setup is compact enough for a backpack, connects with a single USB-C cable, and gives you the critical tactile control you need to run the show flawlessly. The anodized aluminum construction ensures it survives life on the road.

For the Video Production Studio

The Problem: The Director of Photography needs to make subtle lighting adjustments during a shoot but the control station is across the studio. Constant back-and-forth wastes time and breaks the creative flow.

The modue Solution: A simple setup with one Spin module and one Slide module can be placed right next to the camera. The gaffer or DP can now fine-tune the key light's intensity (Slide) and color temperature (Spin) in real-time while looking at the monitor, achieving the perfect shot faster.

For the Theatrical and House of Worship Integrator

The Problem: You've designed a brilliant lighting system, but you need to provide a simple interface for non-technical users (e.g., a stage manager or volunteer) to run daily services or standard scenes without exposing them to the full complexity of the lighting software.

The modue Solution: Create a locked-down interface using a One Touch and a Click module. The One Touch displays clearly labeled buttons for pre-programmed scenes ('Walk-in', 'Sermon', 'Performance', 'Walk-out'), while the Click module can offer manual override for house lights. It's an elegant, professional, and foolproof solution that empowers users without overwhelming them.

Integration and Expandability: The Professional Edge

modue integrates seamlessly with any professional lighting software that accepts MIDI or OSC (Open Sound Control) input. This covers a vast range of platforms, from industry standards to open-source powerhouses.

Our philosophy is modular by design. Your investment is future-proof. As your needs evolve, so can your controller. Start with the essential modules for your current projects and expand when you're ready. This approach respects your budget and your workflow.

Furthermore, for businesses with unique integration needs, we offer an open SDK. This allows your development team to build custom plugins for proprietary software or create deep integrations that go beyond standard MIDI mapping. Join our active developer community on Discord to share solutions and get support.

Stop Compromising, Build Your Perfect Controller

The era of choosing between powerful software and responsive hardware is over. With modue, you get the best of both worlds: a controller that is as serious about lighting as you are. The precision of the motorized Slide, the detail of the Spin, and the immediacy of the Click come together to form a cohesive system that serves one purpose: to put you in complete command.

Ready to reclaim your workflow and build an interface that finally keeps up with your creativity? Explore our pre-order bundles and start designing the lighting controller you've always needed.