About
PRO DMX 2 is a professional-grade, free lighting control software by Chromateq designed to handle everything from small installations to large-scale live events and complex architectural lighting setups. It supports DMX, Art-Net, and RDM protocols and can manage up to 64 universes, making it suitable for productions of any scale. The software features two distinct user modes: a simplified PLAYER mode ideal for quick management and small-to-medium projects, and an advanced PRO mode that enables complete live, personalized sound-to-light control. Its three main working panels — Edit, Live Board, and Standalone — cover the full project lifecycle from programming to live execution and standalone memory configuration. Key tools include an innovative profile and library editor with support for CP1, TXT, and XML import/conversion (including Grand MA3 format), an enhanced Pan/Tilt engine with mirror effects and dynamic offsets, and RDM remote configuration for compatible fixtures. The software allows users to unlock extended features by connecting a Chromateq hardware interface and supports Art-Net upgrades as projects grow. Regular free software upgrades keep the platform current, and features like faster memory writing (20× faster firmware) and automatic profile generation from Grand MA XML files cater to professional workflows. PRO DMX 2 is ideal for lighting designers, stage technicians, AV professionals, and architectural lighting installers seeking a no-cost yet fully capable control solution.
Key Features
- Dual User Modes: Offers a simplified PLAYER mode for quick management of small and medium projects, and an advanced PRO mode for complete live, sound-to-light control tailored to professionals.
- Multi-Protocol Support (DMX, Art-Net, RDM): Compatible with all DMX, Art-Net, and RDM devices, enabling remote fixture configuration, address assignment, and real-time state monitoring directly from the software.
- Up to 64 Universe Patch: Supports both quick and advanced DMX patching across up to 64 universes, accommodating small venues to large-scale productions and complex matrix configurations.
- Enhanced Pan/Tilt Engine: Features a powerful Pan/Tilt engine with mirror effects, common or individual positions, and dynamic/static offset for versatile and creative lighting design.
- Grand MA3 XML Profile Import: Automatically generates and imports fixture profiles from Grand MA XML format files, streamlining setup for professionals already working within industry-standard ecosystems.
Use Cases
- Controlling stage and concert lighting rigs during live performances using DMX and Art-Net protocols.
- Programming and managing architectural LED lighting installations in buildings, retail spaces, or public venues.
- Running standalone automated light shows triggered by timeclock or external signals without a connected PC.
- Designing and testing complex lighting sequences and cues in a simulated environment before deployment.
- Remotely configuring RDM-compatible fixture addresses and modes across large installations directly from the software.
Pros
- Completely Free: PRO DMX 2 is available at no cost with free ongoing software upgrades, making professional lighting control accessible without budget constraints.
- Scalable for Any Project Size: From small architectural installs to large live events, the software scales easily with Art-Net universe upgrades and support for up to 64 universes.
- Professional-Grade Feature Set: Includes advanced tools like RDM remote configuration, Grand MA3 XML import, standalone memory writing, and a fully customizable live board typically found in paid solutions.
Cons
- Requires Chromateq Hardware to Unlock Full Features: Some advanced capabilities are only unlocked when a compatible Chromateq interface (from 2020 or later) is connected, limiting standalone software-only use.
- Not Compatible with Pre-2020 Interfaces: Older Chromateq hardware manufactured before 2020 is not supported, which may require additional hardware investment for existing users.
- Windows-Only Desktop Application: As a downloadable desktop application, it lacks cross-platform browser-based access and may not suit users in macOS or Linux environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PRO DMX 2 really free?
Yes, PRO DMX 2 is completely free to download and use, with free software upgrades included. Optional Art-Net universe upgrades are available as paid add-ons as your projects grow.
What hardware does PRO DMX 2 support?
PRO DMX 2 is compatible with Chromateq DMX interfaces manufactured from 2020 onwards, as well as all standard DMX, Art-Net, and RDM-compatible fixtures and devices.
What is the difference between PLAYER mode and PRO mode?
PLAYER mode is a simplified interface designed for quick management of small to medium projects and architectural setups. PRO mode provides full live control, sound-to-light features, and advanced programming capabilities for professional productions.
Can I import fixture profiles from other software?
Yes, PRO DMX 2 supports automatic fixture profile import from Grand MA XML format files, as well as CP1 and TXT formats, making it easy to migrate existing setups.
Does PRO DMX 2 support standalone operation?
Yes, the Standalone panel allows you to configure triggers and write your show directly into the internal memory of compatible Chromateq interfaces, enabling operation without a connected computer.
