Introduction
Aputure has announced the Sidus Four CRMX Transmitter, which they claim to be the most powerful, versatile, and expansive CRMX transmitter available. With control through the Sidus Link Pro App, this new device aims to simplify the management of highly complicated lighting setups on film sets.
Key Features
Advanced Wireless DMX Control
The Sidus Four brings wireless DMX to film sets, making it easier to manage complex lighting setups. Key features include:
- Transmit to up to 8 Universes: Supports four CRMX universes and four wired DMX universes, allowing transmission of up to eight DMX universes simultaneously.
- Four Bidirectional Wired DMX512 Ports: Provides robust and flexible wired connections.
- Comprehensive Protocol Support: Supports CRMX, Sidus, Art-Net, and sACN.
- Built-In Wireless Router/Ethernet Node: Facilitates seamless network integration.
- Multiple Frequency Bands: Operates over 5.8 GHz Wi-Fi and 2.4 GHz CRMX.
- Sidus via Bluetooth: Ensures reliable Bluetooth connectivity.
- Extended Wireless Range: Offers a range of over 2600 feet for Wi-Fi/CRMX.
- Durable Design: Features an IP65 weather-resistant rating for outdoor use.
- Versatile Power Options: Includes a V-mount plate and an internal backup battery.
Design and Usability
All-in-One Networking Device
The Sidus Four is an all-in-one networking device that enables interference-free control of up to eight CRMX/DMX lighting universes. It was designed to work seamlessly with the Sidus Link app, following the entry-level Sidus One CRMX transmitter and the Sidus Link Pro app, which introduced wireless DMX control.
Ease of Use
Aputure designed the Sidus Four to meet the demand for a solution that brings wireless DMX to film sets while ensuring ease of use. Paired with Sidus Link Pro, the Aputure ecosystem leverages both CRMX and Bluetooth, making complicated lighting setups not only possible but also simple to manage. The result is latency-free and stable wireless control.
Performance
One Transmitter, Eight Universes
The Sidus Four serves as a wireless networking node for CRMX/DMX lighting control, featuring:
- 4 Wireless, 4 Wired Universes: Supports up to four CRMX universes and four wired DMX universes, transmitting up to eight DMX universes simultaneously. It also supports CRMX, DMX, Art-Net, and sACN over EtherCon, and Sidus Bluetooth.
- Limitless Network Expansion: Multiple Sidus Fours can be linked via Ethernet, allowing for virtually unlimited control over the number of universes. This scalability makes it suitable for both small-scale productions and large event venues.
- Clear Display: Features a large, clear, color-coded display that shows instant network vitals and the status of the entire lighting network.
- All-Weather Durability: With an IP65 dust and water-resistant rating and 800m long-range, dual-band antennas, the Sidus Four is designed to withstand various weather conditions. It also offers multiple power options, including a V-mount battery plate and an 80-minute backup battery for continuous use.
Console-Level Control with Sidus Link Pro
The Sidus Link Pro app elevates the functionality of the Sidus Four by offering console-level control. Users can configure all settings of their Sidus Four, including:
- Output Adjustment: Modify the output for each transmitter.
- Universe Selection: Choose the universe for each of the four wireless transmitters.
- Link Commands: Send commands to any universe.
- Network Configuration: Monitor and manage lighting networks efficiently.
Pricing and Availability
The Aputure Sidus Four CRMX Transmitter is priced at $2,490.00 USD and is now available for pre-order. This investment provides filmmakers and lighting professionals with a powerful tool that simplifies and enhances lighting control on set.
Conclusion
The Aputure Sidus Four CRMX Transmitter stands out as a game-changing device in the realm of wireless DMX control. Its advanced features, scalability, and robust build quality make it an invaluable asset for both small-scale and large-scale productions. By integrating it with the Sidus Link Pro app, users gain console-level control, making even the most complex lighting setups manageable and efficient. Whether you’re working on a film set or managing an event, the Sidus Four offers the reliability and flexibility needed to achieve professional-grade lighting control.
