Vari-Lite, a leader in moving head lighting control and Signify entertainment lighting brand, announce the Neo X5 CRE. Designed to be an affordable, compact lighting console specifically for space-constrained environments such as control rooms, studios, and medium-sized performance spaces. The Neo X5 CRE has the same features and customizable software platform as the Neo X5 Console, but in a smaller, screenless form factor designed for tighter spaces and budget-conscious projects.
"Operators love the Neo X Series consoles, but the size isn’t always ideal for smaller areas like control rooms, where space is limited," explains Martin Palmer, Vari-Lite Marketing and Product Management Leader at Signify. "With the X5 CRE, we’re delivering the same powerful features in a compact, screen-free design that’s perfect for these environments."
The X5 CRE runs Vari-Lite’s Neo software platform, which includes an advanced effects engine that supports pixel mapping, media playback, timelines and more. It offers 5 multifunctional motorized playbacks and backlit keys and can output over 50,000 channels out of the box. The intuitive hardware layout includes a soft touch control screen and supports up to two external touchscreen monitors, giving operators the flexibility to adapt their workstation to their needs.
"The Vari-Lite Neo X5 CRE gives designers an adaptable interface that makes it easier to get things done quickly," adds Palmer. "With a small format and a screen-free design, the CRE can be used wherever you need it, whether that’s in the control room, around the theatre or around the world. And thanks to the Neo platform’s robust training and support system, designers can get up to speed quickly, with onboard training videos, global tech support, online forums and groups and an interactive manual."
The Vari-Lite Neo X5 CRE will debut at ISE 2026, where attendees can see the new console in action. Visit Vari-Lite, alongside Color Kinetics, in demo room C4 on floor 8.0 at the Fira Gran Via in Barcelona from February 3–6, 2026.
