What is the Lightshark?Lighting Console Layout for Events with Camera (A.K.A Every Event)

If you have been following Learn Stage Lighting for a while now you know that at times I will review products.

Normally, I review products that I like and share my thought with my readers. About 8 months ago I spotted the Lightshark LS-1 and was surprised at what I had found.

I’m going to share with you what is LightShark? How is it different? Who is it for? and where do you get started if you want to learn more?

What is the LightShark LS-1?

At first, the LightShark LS-1 appears to be like any other PC Wing Lighting Console that would attach to a PC or Console via USB.

But, why would the industry need another one of those?

Well, the LightShark is not like any other PC Wing because it’s a console that runs the software on the console, for the price of other PC wings.

With this it’s unlikely it will crash and there are no computer updates to interrupt the show, etc.

You’re able to use a phone, tablet, or computer to operate the interface without having to connect to the internet.  And it’s designed and manufactured by a Spanish company called Equipison under the Work Pro brand.

How is it Different from PC Based Lighting Consoles?

The LightShark has a built-in router with a wireless connection available so you can connect to the interface from your phone, tablet, or computer.

The console has a closed network and once you connect to a web browser you will be able to connect to the interface.

Most consoles and lighting software are designed for either a Pro or Beginner.

There are not a lot of options for consoles that will fall somewhere in between. The nice folks who designed LightShark understood the demand to close the gap between Beginner and Pro consoles.

This console runs around $1500 and with this, you get the following:

• Console and Hardware
• 10 Faders
• 4 Encoder Wheels
• Programming buttons
• Programming screen
• 8 Universes of DMX control
• 20 Playbacks
• Ability to Connect MIDI Controllers

LightShark also offers a smaller console, the LS-Core, which is just the “box”, which runs the software, and your control surface is 100% on your tablet or computer.  With both consoles, you can also connect to it via wired ethernet – so you don’t have to rely on wifi (which is generally a BAD idea for show critical functions!)

With this console, you will have the ability to manage moving lights, LED, and Conventional. It’s a very well rounded console that is reliable and offers great functionality.

Who is This Good For?

If you are looking for a console that has the professional approach without having a steep learning curve this would be a good option for you.

This console is designed for lighting control and it is a perfect solution for applications such as nightclubs, DJ´s, medium-sized and corporate events, schools, churches, etc.

With its built-in router and connection to the interface through the network, you won’t have to worry about system updates, computer malfunctions, or internet connections. The stability and reliability of this console is a great benefit.

Where Can I Learn More?

As I mentioned at the top of this article, I had the great opportunity to work with the LightShark team to make tutorial videos on the console itself.

Since the LightShark software runs on the console and isn’t downloadable externally, you can also check out these tutorials to get a better idea of how it works.

Here is “How to Begin with the LightShark“, where I feature the videos I created and have had a professional notetaker create an easy-to-skim outline for you to read.

I also have my video review of the console here: