What was the goal behind the development of the ONYX NX3 lighting console?
“With Obsidian firmly establishing itself, we wanted to develop a stronger identity for our consoles. We listened carefully to customer feedback and looked at how we could modernise the platform. We already had the NX2, and it is a great console in its class, but our users were asking for several hardware features including motorised faders, backlit keys and faders, and a larger screen. Rather than creating an NX2 MkII, we wanted to raise the bar and deliver the features our customers were requesting. We had started the ‘new generation look’ with the NX W and the NX3 had to align with that. The NX3 was aimed at these NX2 users and show non-users that there was a serious alternative that should be considered. We’re aiming to begin shipping in August and have already received a significant volume of pre-orders and enquiries.”
What challenges did you face bringing this product to the market?
“Even seemingly simple design elements required extensive development work. Take the screen hinges, for example. Our engineers spent considerable time evaluating torque requirements, hinge configurations, durability and long-term reliability. Every component had to be carefully assessed to ensure it delivered the right balance of strength, usability and longevity. Getting the fine balance of pressing an upright screen without it moving when pressed and adjusting its angle easily had to be struck just right. You may think of it as easy, but a sensible amount of time was allocated to this part of the design.”
How much influence did touring programmers and lighting designers have with the design?
“They played a huge role. We were fortunate enough to speak with lighting designers and operators working across a variety of console platforms, and their feedback directly influenced the development of the NX3. These are the people investing in the product, recommending it to others and ultimately using it in the field. Their input is invaluable. One feature that has resonated strongly is the ability to output 64 universes directly from the console at a highly competitive price point, which helps set the NX3 apart from many alternatives on the market.”
How does the NX3 meet the demands of modern touring and large-scale productions?
“As a compact and portable console, motorised faders were essential. When lighting designers and operators are moving between pages, they need immediate access to cue lists and playback controls without hesitation. Portability was another major consideration. The NX3’s hardware dimensions and lightweight design make it easy to transport, and we’re also exploring additional custom flightcase options with integrated wheels. Ultimately, the design process centred on listening to users. Customers had been consistently asking for motorised faders, backlit buttons and a larger display, so we focussed on delivering those features while maintaining the workflow and reliability, they’re familiar with.”
What practical benefits does the NX3 offer?
“When we designed the NX3, we started with a simple question: How do we create the best compact control canvas for programmers while maintaining affordability? The result is a console designed to minimise the effort required to operate the hardware, allowing users to spend more time focussed on creativity and less time managing the desk itself. Features such as the intuitive control layout, quiet motorised faders, dynamic RGB feedback, and carefully considered ergonomics provide immediate visual and tactile feedback to the operator. Together, they help end users program faster, navigate complex shows more efficiently, and operate with greater confidence in high-pressure live and touring environments.”
How does NETRON FS16 support the growing demands of high-data-volume productions?
“The NETRON FS16 was developed directly in response to customer demand. As our first fibre switch, it delivers a highly competitive solution at a price point that is significantly lower than many comparable products currently available. NETRON FS16 is optimised straight out the box for multicast protocols used on show control networks, such as sACN, Dante, and NDI. That means less time configuring networks, and more time focussed on the show. Multiple disciplines can use the network simultaneously, using VLANs and Trunks. Locking RJ45 connectors with PoE, plus the customisable fibre ports, ensure the FS16 is ready for whatever cabling is required.”
How do these product releases fit into Obsidian’s wider vision for the future?
“My goal is to continue raising awareness of the Obsidian brand through both product innovation and education. New products are important, but training is equally critical. Whether someone is already an Obsidian user or works with other platforms, we’re seeing growing interest in what we’re doing. Globally, we have strong market positions in sectors ranging from houses of worship in North America to corporate environments in Europe, as well as theatres and cultural centres throughout Asia and the Middle East. We want customers to view Obsidian as a professional solutions provider capable of serving multiple vertical markets.”
Why is education so important for the brand?
“One challenge within the industry is that many people assume a working knowledge of networking, so we’ve developed dedicated training courses built around the NETRON platform called ‘Get Connected’. This course combines theory and hands-on learning in equal measure, helping users understand networking fundamentals and practical implementation. For Onyx, we’re committed to helping educate and upskill the next generation of professionals through both online and in-person training programmes. The live monthly online sessions and vast number of YouTube videos allows everyone to learn at their pace while the in-person sessions also allow the individual to be certified post assessment. When I visit colleges and universities, my advice is always the same: learn as many workflows and control platforms as possible. The broader your skill set, the more opportunities will open. Keep learning.”
