Neutrik has extended the TRUE1 platform, the same mechanical family as the powerCON TRUE1 and etherCON you already know, into data connectors. The TRUE1 DATA series covers three connector types (USB-C, RJ45, and fiber) in a single shared chassis format, all rated for outdoor and harsh environment use. If you’re already standardizing on TRUE1 for power, this gives you a consistent platform across your data runs too.

The unified platform is built around Neutrik’s new “Unicorn” connector platform and a D-Size chassis format, the same footprint across all three connector types, so panel layouts and integration hardware can be standardized regardless of signal type. All three carry IP65/IP66/IP67 ratings in mated and locked condition, 1,440 hours of salt spray corrosion resistance (ISO 9227), UV-resistant materials, and single-handed cable locking. The RJ45 and USB-C versions also feature an airtight design.

The Three Connectors

• etherCON TRUE1 — RJ45, CAT6A rated, supports 10 Gigabit Ethernet and PoE++. Metal “data container” chassis provides shielding and mechanical hardening; internal locking mechanism with retractable front shell; optional color-coding rings
• mediaCON TRUE1 — USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 1×1 (5 Gbps), USB Power Delivery 3.0 up to 100W. Airtight fly lead chassis design
• opticalCON TRUE1 DUO — Dual-channel fiber optic, 1.25mm ferrule, available in multimode and singlemode. D-Size chassis with connector guidance and lock marking; color-coding O-rings; self-closing shutter system; single-hand locking; heavy duty anti-kink boot

Common Specs Across All Three

• IP65 / IP66 / IP67 (mated and locked)
• 1,440 hours salt spray corrosion resistance (ISO 9227)
• UV-resistant certified build materials
• Single-hand cable locking operation
• Color-coding options
• Replaceable / customizable sealing caps
• D-Size chassis format for panel integration
• Designed for outdoor production, OB vans, remote broadcast, rental staging, and touring

Learn more about the Neutrik TRUE1 DATA Connector Series by visiting neutrikgroup.com.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8

Robe launches Five New Products: Arianne Family Complete, LEDBeam 400, iT10 Profile, and mySVOPATT

Robe was at PLASA 2026 at Earls Court with five new product launches — the most significant being the completion of the Arianne IP65 multisource family with the addition of the Arianne 4 and Arianne 12, plus new entries in the LEDBeam and profile categories and a motorized update to the SVOPATT. The show also marks the first PLASA appearance of the GigaPointe laser source fixture, and Robe is rolling its AERIS air-scrubbing technology across… Read more

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9

ETC Refreshes the Hog HPU as the HPU+

ETC has announced the HPU+, a refreshed version of the Hog Hybrid Processor Unit that replaces the original HPU. The unit does two things: run as a headless rack-mounted Hog console for permanent installs where a physical front panel isn’t needed, or bolt onto an existing Hog system as a DMX processor adding 64 universes of output. The upgrade over the original is mostly mechanical and I/O — a simplified internal design for easier servicing,… Read more

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9

CuePoints v2.0: Cloud Sync and MUCH More

CuePoints — the macOS (and now Windows) cue management and timecode tool that’s become a staple for lighting programmers and show callers on timecoded productions — has released v2.0, and it’s a substantial overhaul. The headline feature is real-time cloud sync for collaborative projects, but there’s also a new recording workflow, significant timecode improvements, NDI in and out, OSC bidirectionally, and Windows reaching full feature parity with macOS. The pricing model has also changed. If… Read more

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10

Obsidian’s Netron FS16; Includes Fiber Switching

Obsidian Control Systems has released a fiber-capable network switch built specifically for lighting and show control applications, stepping into territory that’s been dominated by repurposed IT hardware. The Netron FS16 is Obsidian’s first fiber switch, and it’s clearly aimed at the growing number of productions where copper runs just don’t cut it anymore. With four fiber ports alongside twelve gigabit copper ports and 180W of PoE+ budget, it’s positioned as a one-box solution for distributing… Read more

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11

City Theatrical’s QolorPoint Mrk3 Brings Zoom Control to Wireless Uplighting

The third generation of City Theatrical’s battery-powered uplighter adds electronic zoom, a redesigned OLED interface, and maintains the Multiverse wireless ecosystem that’s made the QolorPoint line a staple for event lighting. City Theatrical has been refining the QolorPoint formula since the original, and the Mrk3 addresses some practical gaps. The headline addition is an electronically variable zoom (15° to 55°) on the 7100 model—controllable via wireless DMX, which means you can adjust beam spread from… Read more

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11

Luminex LumiNode and LumiCore Firmware v2.9.1: Three Bug Fixes, Upgrade Recommended

Luminex is pushing firmware v2.9.1 for the LumiNode and LumiCore ranges — a bugfix-only release with no new features. All v2.9.0 users are advised to update. Three fixes in this one, and the VLAN bug and the boot race condition are both worth having sorted. Bug Fixes Fixed an issue on the LCD & jog button interface where changing process engine parameters resulted in incorrect configurations Resolved a bug where packets arriving on a port… Read more

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11

Golden Sea Acquires Follow-Me, Bringing Tracking Tech Into Its Growing Portfolio

The fixture-agnostic tracking specialist Follow-Me has joined Golden Sea Group, marking the conglomerate’s latest move to build out a vertically integrated entertainment technology portfolio. The acquisition, finalized September 8th, gives Follow-Me access to Golden Sea’s R&D resources and manufacturing muscle while the Dutch company maintains its independent operation. For users of Follow-Me’s Track-iT auto-tracking system or the newer DELT∆ manual tracking platform, the immediate question is whether this means faster development cycles and broader product… Read more

The acquisition, finalized September 8th, gives Follow-Me access to Golden Sea’s R&D resources and manufacturing muscle while the Dutch company maintains its independent operation. For users of Follow-Me’s Track-iT auto-tracking system or the newer DELT∆ manual tracking platform, the immediate question is whether this means faster development cycles and broader product availability — or the gradual absorption that sometimes follows these deals.

Golden Sea has been methodically assembling complementary brands (they also own Prolights, Luminex, and Robert Juliat, among others), and adding a tracking specialist fills an obvious gap. Follow-Me’s ten-year track record of fixture-agnostic solutions — systems that work across manufacturer lines rather than locking users into a single ecosystem — is precisely the kind of capability that becomes more valuable as tracking moves from Broadway budgets toward regional theatre and corporate events.

The leadership stays intact: co-founders Erik Berends (Technical Director) and Marc van der Wel (Managing Director) remain, though co-founder Gary Yates steps down as Director to an advisory role. The team stays in the Netherlands with plans to expand.

More from Follow-Me:

The union of Follow-Me and Golden Sea will span the full production ecosystem of live entertainment, from touring, events, theatre, broadcast, themed entertainment and permanent installations. It brings Golden Sea’s entertainment lighting technology expertise and Follow-Me’s intelligent performer tracking systems together. This combination of global reach and specialist depth will scale market penetration and accelerate growth, allowing Follow-Me to make its performer tracking systems accessible to new market segments and a broader range of users.

“Access to Golden Sea’s global engineering resources, facilities and international network, provides us with the platform to deliver even more for our customers,” said Erik Berends and Marc van der Wel. “Our partners, customers and employees will all benefit from the momentum this brings to the live entertainment market.”

Christopher Agius Ferrante, Vice-President at Golden Sea, responsible for overseas subsidiaries, added: “This agreement truly underpins our strategy to architect a portfolio of complementary brands, each at the top of its game. We warmly welcome Follow-Me into the Golden Sea family.”

Learn more at follow-me.nl.

Luminex is pushing firmware v2.9.1 for the LumiNode and LumiCore ranges — a bugfix-only release with no new features. All v2.9.0 users are advised to update. Three fixes in this one, and the VLAN bug and the boot race condition are both worth having sorted.

Bug Fixes

• Fixed an issue on the LCD & jog button interface where changing process engine parameters resulted in incorrect configurations
• Resolved a bug where packets arriving on a port with a VLAN ID tagged for a known group would be forwarded out on the group with that VLAN ID (incorrect VLAN routing)
• Fixed a rare boot failure caused by a race condition during startup

Applicable models: Full LumiNode range and LumiCore range.

Download v2.9.1 from luminex.be or upgrade directly from within Araneo.

City Theatrical has been refining the QolorPoint formula since the original, and the Mrk3 addresses some practical gaps. The headline addition is an electronically variable zoom (15° to 55°) on the 7100 model—controllable via wireless DMX, which means you can adjust beam spread from your console instead of walking the room. For corporate gigs and galas where you’re lighting architectural elements at varying distances, that’s a meaningful time-saver during focus.

The 4000 lumen output from the RGBW array is spec’d to handle structures up to five stories, and the unit ships with 60 LEE filter presets baked in alongside nine white temperatures. Battery life ranges from 8 to 20 hours depending on output—City Theatrical claims 700 recharge cycles before degradation, though real-world longevity will depend on how hard you push them. The new color OLED display now shows runtime remaining and charge status, which is the kind of detail that makes pre-show checks faster.

At 4.5 kg (9.9 lbs) per unit with IP65 rating, these are positioned for outdoor events where weather protection matters. The Multiverse integration gives you 2.4GHz wireless DMX/RDM with a 200-foot range across six SHoW IDs. No pricing announced yet, but expect the zoom-equipped 7100 to carry a premium over the fixed-beam 7101.

More from City Theatrical:

• 4000 lumen output from a single four-color RGBW LED array
• Available with Zoom Lens (7100) or without Zoom Lens (7101)
• Electronically variable 15–55° beam control on the Zoom Lens version
• Display showing runtime remaining on the screen
• Display showing remaining charge time when on charge
• All-new color OLED display with the ability to show multiple menus at the same time, giving the ability to show more information on-screen
• Beam width can be adjusted remotely using wireless DMX
• IP65 rated for indoor and outdoor use
• Can illuminate trees and structures up to five stories
• Even color mixing and easy-to-create white and pastel shades using 4-color Cree RGBW LEDs
• 9 preset white color temperatures
• 60 built-in LEE filter presets
• 10 built-in color correction (CC) filter presets
• Five built-in color fades: Rainbow 1, Rainbow 2, Snap, Warm and Cool
• Built-in City Theatrical Multiverse Wireless DMX/RDM transceiver
• 2.4GHz Multiverse Wireless DMX/RDM
• Wireless range of up to 200 feet
• Six user-selectable SHoW IDs
• Rechargeable Li-Ion battery
• Recharge time of under 5 hours
• Battery life of 8–20 hours, depending on operating mode and output
• Up to 700 recharge cycles
• DC dimming with no PWM for flicker-free operation in TV and video applications
• Master or Slave DMX selectable
• Head tilts up to 110°
• 4, 5 or 6-channel control
• Cylindrical design with removable stainless-steel shroud
• Compact and lightweight at 4.5 kg (9.9 lbs) per unit
• Available as a 6-unit charging case

Learn more at citytheatrical.com.

The Netron FS16 is Obsidian’s first fiber switch, and it’s clearly aimed at the growing number of productions where copper runs just don’t cut it anymore. With four fiber ports alongside twelve gigabit copper ports and 180W of PoE+ budget, it’s positioned as a one-box solution for distributing both data and power to Netron nodes or other PoE+ devices across a show network.

What’s interesting here is the preset system, four front-panel buttons for instant network switching between main/backup consoles or different FOH configurations. That’s a workflow consideration you don’t get from grabbing a Cisco off the shelf. The web interface and external RJ45 remote control options suggest Obsidian is thinking about how these get deployed in real show environments, not just spec sheets.

Pricing isn’t announced yet, though Obsidian is positioning it as more affordable than comparable fiber switches. Given the FS16’s entertainment-specific feature set versus generic IT hardware, that comparison will be worth watching.

More from Obsidian Control Systems:

Purpose-Built for Live Production
The Netron FS16 brings clarity to complex lighting networks with dedicated fibre-optic connectivity for dependable, predictable performance. Designed for live productions, it avoids the complexity of traditional IT switches while delivering fast, stable control across long shows, tours, and installations.

Key Specifications
12 Gigabit ports, four fiber ports, and PoE+ support delivering high-speed data and power distribution. Total PoE power budget of 180W, ideally suited to distribute data and power to Netron nodes or any other PoE+ compatible network appliance.

Network Preset System
Highly optimized for processing the high data volumes found in today’s increasingly sophisticated lighting systems, the Netron FS16 provides instant network selection via four dedicated front-panel preset buttons, an external remote control connected via RJ45, or a web interface. The presets allow main and backup consoles or different FOH setups to be recalled at a moment’s notice, supporting fast network changes and smooth, uninterrupted show execution.

Cross-Discipline Applications
As network switches are increasingly important across multiple disciplines, including audio applications such as Dante, the FS16 is a valuable networking solution beyond lighting alone.

Learn more at obsidiancontrol.com.

CuePoints — the macOS (and now Windows) cue management and timecode tool that’s become a staple for lighting programmers and show callers on timecoded productions — has released v2.0, and it’s a substantial overhaul. The headline feature is real-time cloud sync for collaborative projects, but there’s also a new recording workflow, significant timecode improvements, NDI in and out, OSC bidirectionally, and Windows reaching full feature parity with macOS. The pricing model has also changed.

If you haven’t come across CuePoints before: it’s a dedicated show planning and timecode tool aimed at the lighting and live production world. You import audio and video, build a cue list against the timeline, generate or chase LTC timecode, and export to grandMA, Eos, and other consoles. It’s the kind of tool that makes sense for programmers who are pre-building timecoded content and need to map cues against media before they’re ever near the rig. Version 1 was macOS only; v2 adds full Windows support.

What’s New in v2.0

Cloud Sync and Collaboration

One project, multiple users, live updates. Cues and tracks sync instantly across the team — add a cue on your machine and it appears for everyone. Access control goes down to cue type level, with an activity log showing who changed what. Works offline and catches up when you reconnect. Anyone on the free Viewer tier can join read-only.

Record to Timeline

Record video and audio directly from a capture card, NDI source, or iPhone. Trigger recording manually or via timecode; the recording drops onto its track automatically. OSC cues fired mid-recording land at the correct timecode position.

Timecode

Striped LTC is now read from media files on import, so you can add cues to the exact TC frame without a separate process. The timeline can chase incoming timecode from LTC, Art-Net TC, or MIDI TC. Track timecode outputs to Art-Net TC or MIDI TC. Change an offset or frame rate and outgoing timecode regenerates on the spot. Any media type — not just the primary track — can serve as the striped timecode source.

NDI and Overlays

Send up to three simultaneous NDI streams — with or without overlay — for use in previs or dedicated display screens. Build overlays with countdowns, next cue, timestamps, and watermarks; bake them into recordings and exports or view live.

OSC In and Out

Send OSC commands out of CuePoints per cue, to multiple interfaces. Control CuePoints playback via OSC from consoles, Stream Deck, or anything sending OSC — including a grandMA3. Updated OSC schema covers volume control, recording triggers, and timecode following commands.

Read Cues Off a Video

Draw a box over cue numbers burned into a recording and CuePoints reads them off the video and builds the cue list for you. Genuinely useful when you have video of a show but no cue sheet.

Other Improvements

• Windows: full feature parity with macOS
• Audio output: multiple output devices simultaneously, each switchable for routing
• Timeline: reworked zooming/scrolling, zoom to full waveform detail, A/B loop region
• Cue list: OSC command, note, trigger, trigger delay fields per cue; countdowns; timing between selected cues
• Settings: consolidated into one window (Audio Output, Timecode, Recording, OSC, NDI, Shortcuts, Tracks, Backup, Overlay Editor)
• In-app auto-update
• Faster syncing and cue loading on large projects

Pricing and Licensing

CuePoints v2.0 moves to a licence-plus-annual-plan model: £128 (~$173) + tax buys the software and the first year of updates, cloud sync, and support. After year one, the plan renews at £85 (~$115) + tax/year. Stop paying and the version you have keeps working — what stops is live sync, new updates, and support. Existing v1 owners get a discount on v2.0 based on when they bought (up to free for purchases in the last 30 days); check buy.cuepoints.com/getdiscountcode. Licence keys are replaced by email sign-in with a one-time code.

Note: Projects saved in v2.0 cannot be opened in v1.x. Work on a copy until you’re ready to commit. V1 licences remain active.

Download CuePoints v2.0 at cuepoints.com.

ETC has announced the HPU+, a refreshed version of the Hog Hybrid Processor Unit that replaces the original HPU. The unit does two things: run as a headless rack-mounted Hog console for permanent installs where a physical front panel isn’t needed, or bolt onto an existing Hog system as a DMX processor adding 64 universes of output. The upgrade over the original is mostly mechanical and I/O — a simplified internal design for easier servicing, and a rear-panel connection set that matches the current generation of Hog consoles.

On the I/O side: etherCON for HogNet and FixtureNet, opticalCON Duo fiber, a proper built-in LTC/SMPTE connection, TRUE1 TOP power, eight Neutrik XLR-5 DMX outputs, and two external touchscreen ports. The onboard 8″ multitouch display carries over. The original HPU moves to legacy status but keeps software update support, and any HPU purchased in 2026 gets the same five-year warranty as the HPU+.

Specs

• 64 universes of onboard processing
• 8× Neutrik XLR-5 DMX outputs
• Built-in 8″ full-color multitouch display
• 2× external touchscreen ports
• etherCON — HogNet and FixtureNet (sACN and Art-Net)
• OpticalCON Duo fiber optic connections
• LTC/SMPTE 3-pin XLR
• TRUE1 TOP power input
• Hog OS
• 5-year warranty

“HPU+ brings all the power of a Hog console to those spaces that don’t truly need a permanent hardware front-panel solution, like cruise ships and theme parks,” says Tania Lesage, Market Manager at ETC. “But at the same time, HPU+ can expand existing Hog systems with an additional 64 universes of control. It really is a powerful tool.”

Learn more about the HPU+ by visiting etcconnect.com.

Robe was at PLASA 2026 at Earls Court with five new product launches — the most significant being the completion of the Arianne IP65 multisource family with the addition of the Arianne 4 and Arianne 12, plus new entries in the LEDBeam and profile categories and a motorized update to the SVOPATT. The show also marks the first PLASA appearance of the GigaPointe laser source fixture, and Robe is rolling its AERIS air-scrubbing technology across its full LT series. Find them on Stand A70.

Arianne 4 and Arianne 12

The Arianne 4 and Arianne 12 complete the Arianne series, which started with the Arianne 2 and Arianne 6 earlier this year. All four share the same 55W RGB Lime LED multichip source and IP65 rating. The numbers refer to the source count — so the Arianne 12 packs 12 of those 55W RGBLime chips into an IP65 housing, with the full family now covering a range of output sizes from a single platform.

LEDBeam 400

The LEDBeam 400 is a new addition to Robe’s beam wash range. No specs from the PR — full details will follow post-show.

iT10 Profile

The iT10 Profile joins the T10 family as a new IP-rated profile option. Full specs to follow after the show.

mySVOPATT

The mySVOPATT is an updated version of Robe’s SVOPATT — the spinning, scrolling effect fixture — now with pan and tilt added. That’s the key change: the SVOPATT effect engine in a moving head format.

Also on Stand

GigaPointe: Robe’s laser-source beam fixture makes its first PLASA appearance after a summer of European festival dates. AERIS across the LT series: Robe’s patented air-scrubbing technology — which filters and removes airborne contaminants (oil, VOCs) from inside the fixture head before they settle on lenses, gobos, and dichroic filters — is now implemented across the full LT luminaire range. It debuted on the iPAINTE LTM, which is a PLASA Innovation Award entry this year.

Learn more about Robe’s PLASA 2026 lineup by visiting robe.cz.

MONDAY, AUGUST 31

Vectorworks 2026 Update 7: Spotlight Fixes for Equipment Summary, Patch Dialog, and Numbering Stability

Vectorworks 2026 Update 7 is out, and for Spotlight users there are a few fixes worth checking. The Equipment Summary Key tool now reports accurate quantities for duplicated lighting device symbols — a reporting bug that would have quietly given you wrong counts. The Patch dialog is also fixed to correctly display DMX patching diagrams, and a stability issue that hit when selecting a lighting device after running Spotlight Numbering with all fields enabled is… Read more

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1

ECCHO Live Webinar: Sarah Page on Imposter Feelings and Backing Yourself in Live Music

ECCHO Live is hosting a free one-hour webinar on September 15th with executive coach Sarah Page, aimed at women working in live music and touring. The session zeroes in on imposter feelings, overthinking, and the particular flavor of self-doubt that comes with building a career in an industry where you’re often the only woman in the room. The format is interactive — not a lecture. The session will cover why imposter feelings and overthinking show… Read more

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1

grandMA3 Version 2.5: Masters Window, Channel Map, Locate, and a Big QoL Pass

MA Lighting has released grandMA3 version 2.5, a feature update focused on visibility, workflow cleanup, and quality-of-life improvements across the board. The five headline additions are a Masters Window, a Locate function, Channel Map in the patch, improvements to Phaser Recipes, and a broad pass of general refinements. Free download as always — onPC for Windows and Mac, plus console update. Masters Window Group Masters, Speed Masters, and World Masters now have a dedicated Masters… Read more

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2

USITT Virtual OSHA Classes for Entertainment Industry: Fall 2026 Through Spring 2027

USITT and Risky Business Resources have a new round of virtual OSHA classes for the entertainment industry scheduled through spring 2027. All sessions are live video conference, approved for ETCP renewal credits, and require a computer with camera on throughout. OSHA 10 General Industry — Fall 2026: September 1–2, 10am–7pm ET | $225/attendee OSHA 10 General Industry — Winter 2027: January 14–15, 10am–7pm ET | $225/attendee OSHA 30 General Industry — Winter 2027: January 18… Read more

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2

Obsidian NX3 Console Delivers 64 Universes in Portable Package

Obsidian Control Systems has unveiled the NX3, a mid-range ONYX console that packs 64 direct universes, motorized faders, and a 17.3-inch multi-touch display into a touring-friendly form factor. The console was developed with extensive input from working programmers and aims to bridge the gap between compact controllers and high-capacity touring desks. The NX3 features ten motorized faders with RGB backlighting that reflects active playbacks in real time, along with customizable backlit keys and encoders for… Read more

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3

Mega-Lite Combines RGBW Lighting and Audio in New LSD Line

A new product line from Mega-Lite integrates architectural RGBW lighting with a full speaker system in a single pendant fixture, targeting venues that want fewer ceiling boxes. The Light & Sound Deco (LSD) Line centers on the LSD5, a 5-foot RGBW pendant that pairs a 96W LED engine with a dual-radiating speaker system. The fixture produces tunable whites and full color mixing, eliminating the need for separate ceiling speakers in the same footprint. The CV4… Read more

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3

LightShark Consoles Get ArtNet v4 and Streamlined Cue Editing in Software Update

LightShark’s version 1.5.25 firmware brings expanded universe count, new record merge/remove functions, and built-in video tutorials across the entire console lineup. The update applies to all LightShark products: the LS-1 hardware console, LS-Core, LS-Wing OSC controller, and the LS-NODE streaming devices. The headline additions are Record Merge and Record Remove — programmers can now add or strip information from individual cues or entire playback stacks without the EDIT+UPDATE workflow. Multiple cues can also be opened… Read more

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4

MediaMaster 26.0 Drops with New Interface, 4K HDR Playback

ChamSys has released MediaMaster 26.0 Stable — the first production release since acquiring the media server platform earlier this year, delivering a rebuilt interface, 48-layer 4K HDR playback, and tighter MagicQ integration. The release marks ChamSys’s “One Console. One Server. One Show.” vision taking shape, with the original MediaMaster engineering team now working full-time under the ChamSys banner. MediaMaster 26.0 is a ground-up rebuild of the 6.0 architecture with a new UI designed for faster… Read more

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4

PR Lighting Launches Marine-Grade IP66 Moving Heads for Harsh Environments

PR Lighting’s new AQUA Marine 580 fixtures bring serious corrosion resistance to outdoor installations, with a double-layer coating and patent-pending sealing system rated for 1,500 hours of salt spray exposure. The AQUA Marine 580 BWS and AQUA Marine 580 Beam are IP66-rated moving heads designed specifically for seaside and marine applications where standard outdoor fixtures would deteriorate rapidly. Both fixtures run on either Philips MSD Platinum 25 R or Osram Sirius HRI 550W XL lamps… Read more