ADJ AX2 ONYX Lighting Console for High-Universe Show Control and Fast Live Programming
The ADJ AX2 is a compact but serious lighting console built for productions that need speed, direct access, and large-show processing without stepping up to a physically larger desk. Derived from the ONYX platform, it combines a bright 15.6-inch Full HD multi-touch screen, an assistive 3.5-inch touchscreen, 10 full playbacks, a dedicated grand master, a full keypad and command section, and 8 assignable encoders in one fully integrated control surface.
Under the hood, the AX2 is positioned for demanding show environments with an Intel i5 Hexa-Core CPU, 16 GB DDR4 RAM, a 500 GB NVMe M.2 drive, and 32 universes of integrated processing. That matters for crews who want console-level control power inside a smaller footprint without relying on added external processing just to unlock bigger productions.
It also stands out as a connectivity-heavy desk for modern rigs. With 4 DMX/RDM universe ports, dual Gigabit networking for Art-Net, sACN, and ONYX X-Net, MIDI in/out/thru, SMPTE timecode in/out, dual DisplayPort outputs for up to two external 4K touch displays, and USB connectivity for storage and peripherals, the AX2 is built to sit at the center of complex event, club, corporate, and production workflows.
Real-World Applications and Lighting Roles:
- Touring and event lighting control: Gives operators 32 universes of integrated processing for larger cue-heavy productions.
- Club and venue programming: Fits spaces that need ONYX workflow, touchscreen speed, and direct playback access in a compact console format.
- Timecode and networked systems: Supports Art-Net, sACN, ONYX X-Net, MIDI, and SMPTE for more advanced control integration.
- Pixel-driven show design: Includes the DYLOS Media Engine with 5 zones of pixel control for more layered visual programming.
- Chicago production crews and mobile event teams: Strong fit when fast setup, direct access, and high-output control capability matter more than oversized furniture.
Where the ADJ AX2 Excels in Professional Lighting Rigs
- Big Processing in a Smaller Footprint: Delivers 32 universes directly inside the console, reducing the need for costly external processing networks in larger productions.
- Fast Hands-On Programming: Combines 10 playbacks, 8 assignable encoders, a grand master, full keypad access, and a dedicated Go section for direct live-show operation.
- Modern ONYX Workflow: Brings the ONYX platform into an ADJ console format with touch-driven control and deep parameter access.
- Pixel-Oriented Creative Range: Includes the DYLOS Media Engine with 5 zones of pixel control for more ambitious fixture and media-driven looks.
- Screen-Heavy Operator Access: Uses a built-in 15.6-inch Full HD multi-touch screen, an internal 3.5-inch touchscreen, and support for two external 4K touch displays.
- Network and Show Integration: Supports Art-Net, sACN, ONYX X-Net, MIDI, SMPTE, DMX/RDM, and USB-based expansion for connected show systems.
- Roadworthy Control Platform: Designed as a rugged, roadworthy device intended to withstand the demands of professional use.
- Strong Fit for Clubs, Events, and Production Teams: Gives lighting programmers a serious desk for venue installs, event control, and fast-paced live cue execution.
Control Surface and Showflow Options on the ADJ AX2
The ADJ AX2 is built around direct operator access rather than menu-deep control alone. Its surface includes 10 x 60 mm playback faders, each with 4 function-assignable buttons, plus a Playback Select button and a Master Go section with Go, Pause, Snap, and Release for cue execution and live timing control.
Parameter control is split between 4 digital rotary encoders with push function and status LED and 4 screen-mounted digital rotary encoders with push. The integrated 3.5-inch RGB touchscreen is used for parameter groups, effect parameters, fanning, and global timings, while the larger 15.6-inch multi-touch display anchors the main programming workflow.
For broader system control, the AX2 supports 4 DMX/RDM universe in/out ports, dual Gigabit networking for Art-Net, sACN, and ONYX X-Net, MIDI in/out/thru for MIDI show control, notes, and timecode, plus SMPTE timecode in/out. Two external 4K touch displays can be added for more direct visual access in larger programming sessions.
How the ADJ AX2 Changes Lighting Workflow at Show Time
Built for Operators Who Need Console-Level Access Without a Huge Desk
The AX2 is not positioned like a stripped-down controller that asks users to compromise on direct access. Its layout combines playback control, encoders, touchscreen control, command keys, and networking in a form factor that stays compact enough for practical deployment while still feeling like a serious show desk.
A Strong Fit for Pixel-Heavy and Networked Lighting Systems
With DYLOS Media Engine included and 32 universes of integrated processing, the AX2 is aimed at productions that go beyond simple cue playback. It is built for users who need room for larger fixture counts, more detailed pixel work, and network-based system expansion through Art-Net, sACN, and ONYX X-Net.
Designed to Keep High-Pressure Cueing More Direct
The combination of playback faders, Go controls, parameter encoders, keypad access, a grand master, and dual-screen expansion support helps the AX2 stay fast under live pressure. That is a meaningful advantage in environments where operators need to react quickly instead of hunting through layered control structures.
Connectivity That Matches Larger Show Demands
The AX2 is built to live inside more advanced systems, not beside them. DMX/RDM, DisplayPort, network protocols, MIDI, SMPTE, USB, audio connections, and a dedicated desk lamp connection all reinforce its role as a central control point for professional lighting production.
How to Deploy the ADJ AX2 in the Field
The ADJ AX2 is best deployed as the central lighting control surface in professional show environments where direct playback access, touchscreen workflow, and networked expansion all matter. In the field, it should be operated on a stable, solid surface with free airflow to the bottom and back, and it is intended for dry locations only.
Power-up is built around the included external PSU and 4-pin XLR power input, with the provided power cable and a properly protected grounded outlet. For larger programming sessions, the AX2 can be expanded with up to two external 4K touch displays, while its DMX, Art-Net, sACN, ONYX X-Net, MIDI, and SMPTE connectivity make it easier to place at the center of more advanced venue, event, and touring control systems.
Because the manual identifies it as a product intended for professionally trained personnel, the AX2 makes the most sense in hands that already understand structured cueing, networked control, and time-based show execution. For transport, ADJ directs users toward suitable packaging or a custom fitted road case.
The ADJ AX2 is a compact pro console that rewards trained operators with direct ONYX workflow, serious connectivity, and high-universe control power in the real world.
Why Choose the ADJ AX2 from AVMaxx
The ADJ AX2 is the kind of console purchase where spec-sheet reading alone is not enough. Buyers need to understand whether the workflow, playback structure, network options, display expansion, and control depth actually match the rooms, shows, and production demands they handle. That is where AVMaxx adds value beyond a generic listing.
For customers building venue systems, club rigs, event lighting packages, or Chicago-area production workflows that need faster cue access and stronger ONYX-based control, the AX2 stands out because it combines integrated 32-universe processing, DYLOS capability, and deep connectivity in a more deployment-friendly footprint. AVMaxx helps buyers sort out where that matters, where it changes workflow, and whether it is the right desk for the scale of show they are running.
AVMaxx helps lighting pros choose control platforms with field logic in mind, so the ADJ AX2 lands in the right venue, the right workflow, and the right level of show from day one.
Frequently Asked Questions - ADJ AX2
What kind of lighting controller is the ADJ AX2?
The ADJ AX2 is a fully integrated lighting controller derived from the ONYX platform, built with a 15.6-inch Full HD multi-touch screen, 10 playbacks, 8 assignable encoders, and 32 universes of integrated processing.
Does the ADJ AX2 include pixel-control capability?
Yes. The AX2 includes the DYLOS Media Engine with 5 zones of pixel control, giving it stronger creative range for more advanced visual programming.
Can the ADJ AX2 connect to Art-Net, sACN, MIDI, and SMPTE systems?
Yes. The AX2 supports dual Gigabit networking for Art-Net, sACN, and ONYX X-Net, plus MIDI in/out/thru and SMPTE timecode in/out for broader show integration.
Is the ADJ AX2 a strong fit for DJs or event teams running more advanced lighting control?
It can be, especially where a DJ company or event production team is handling serious programmed lighting and needs deeper cue, network, and playback control. The manual also states that the product is intended for professionally trained personnel rather than private use.
What should operators keep in mind when deploying the ADJ AX2?
ADJ specifies dry-location use, a stable and solid surface, unobstructed airflow to the bottom and back, proper grounded power, and suitable packaging or a custom fitted road case for transport.
If your shows need faster hands-on programming, stronger network integration, and real ONYX control power in a compact console, the ADJ AX2 is built to carry that workload.
