The TL-5024 lighting console (MSRP $1,449) has a robust set of features for a small lighting console. It can operate in a basic two-scene preset mode controlling 12 channels; in a channel-only mode with 24 channels; or in a channel/scene mode with 12 channel faders and 12 scene faders. Features include the ability to program chase patterns, as well as a simple cuing system.
The console allows you to create two custom patches within the console, which would be very handy if you were sharing one console between two rooms with their own dimming systems. You can have the console patched for both systems, and just tell it through the menu which patch to use. You can also patch multiple dimmers onto one control channel, allowing the system to operate many more dimmers than the console has channels for.
It also has a “House Master” fader in the top right corner—any dimmers patched to channel 99 will be assigned to this fader, allowing them to be operated independently of the channel faders. As the name implies, this would be very useful for operating your house lighting.
Up to 192 scenes can be easily programmed into the console, allowing you to quickly bring up specific lighting “looks.” Recording cues for the system work hand-in-hand with the scene functionality. You first program scenes for every look you need in your cue list; each step of the cue list then references a specific scene. The process for programming the cue list seemed a little bit clunky—it's done through the small menu system—but after a few minutes you get the hang of it and it can go pretty quickly. As the cue list simply references scenes, updating a scene means that all the cues that refer to that scene get the update as well. Programming chase patterns is also supported.
In addition to using standard DMX cabling to connect to dimmers, it also has a wireless DMX option that lets it transmit DMX data to compatible wireless dimmers without cabling. This is an excellent option for portable use, and eliminates having to tape down dozens of feet of DMX cable with expensive gaffer's tape each time you set it up. Portable churches should take note.
The console worked well, and would be a good fit as a small portable system within a larger church, as the main lighting system for a small, medium or portable church, or in children's ministry rooms where theatrical light is needed. If paired with a wireless dimmer, it would save a lot of setup hassle when used in a portable environment.
