M-Touch Control

The newest console device for the Martin M-Series line of control consoles is now available, and it is really cool!  The M-Touch is a unique control surface that can be used for both playback and programming when combined with M-PC software or any M-Series console.

The surface of the low-cost controller has new-to-lighting technology utilizing Force Sensitive Resistors (FSR) on both flash keys and faders.  This allows surprising control possibilities based upon velocity and pressure.  In addition there are other touch sensitive keys and even a 5-pin XLR for DMX output.  You really should get your hands on an M-Touch as it is quite a powerful tool when combined with M-Series software.

One of the great features is that the M-Touch can be used with M-PC or used as a wing to any M-Series console.  In fact, you can even connect multiple M-Touch devices into any single system.



In order to do so, you will need to do a bit of configuration.  In the M-Series Menu, click on System then DMX Settings.

Now at the bottom of the screen select the USB2DMX tab and now you will see the M-Touch device (assuming you plugged it into your console/PC) on the top left of the screen.

On the right side of the screen are some options and here you can set the DMX universe to output from the 5-pin XLR (universe 1-4).  You can also set the Wing ID.  If the ID is set to 0 (the default) then it will mimic the first 10 faders on your desk.  If you set it to a higher number, then it will behave as a separate wing from the faders on your desk.  You can now change banks on the M-Touch and console separately!

The M-Touch is an amazing control option and very reasonably priced too.  Check out the videos below for more information and stay tuned for another blog post with some advanced functions of the M-Touch.

MAC Viper Quadray is Really Cool!

Martin engineers created a really cool accessory that replaces the front lens of any MAC Viper AirFX called the Quadray.  This nifty tool has four lenses that can each alter their positon allowing for really exciting and dynamic aerial beam looks.

Yes, you will loose a small amount of light output as you are now directing the output through four small lenses instead of one large lens, but the return you get in looks is amazing.  You can project 1, 2, 3, or 4 individually controlled beams of light from a single fixture.  Plus you can change between these looks at any time via simple DMX controls!





The Quadray is excellent for upstage fixtures placed on the deck or hanging in the air.  For instance, if you had 12 MAC Viper AirFX on the upstage floor behind a band you could create an plethora of different looks when the Quadray units are attached.  Sometimes you could have 12 beams behind the band, while at other times it could multiply to 24, 36 or even 48!  This is really one way to make HUGE looks with any rig.





Each of the four individual lenses can be positioned independently or they can come together to create a "normal" output of one image from the fixture.  Gobos can be projected as one image or multiples as well.  Martin also includes built in effects that provide a multitude of pre-programmed movement effects for the Quadray unit. From static fan outs to complex movement chases, they have thought of the most common and unique looks you would want.


Installation is very easy and the fixture auto-senses the new lens.  You will need to enter some calibration information about the Quadray unit into the fixture's menu though.  Plus do not forget that you will need a different fixture library in your console than the standard MAC Viper AirFX library to control the Quadray.




While the Quadray may not be for everyone or every application, it certainly can add some unique movement and excitement to many productions, while increasing the output capabilities of each fixture.  Check out this video for a bit more information and to see some shots of Quadray in action: