Lighting

About Lighting

It’s easy to forget how important good lighting is to a live performance — until the house lights accidentally switch on or the stage lights blow a fuse. Lighting is a huge part of how we consume live events, whether we’re at an underground rock show or the Metropolitan Opera. DJs and set designers alike rely on proper lighting to visually enhance and refine their productions. We’ve luckily come a long way from the 1600s, when stages were lit by candles and chandeliers! Today’s performers can choose from an endless variety of sophisticated lighting gear. It’s never been easier or more affordable to dazzle audiences of any size.

Lighting Controllers and Interfaces

There are three main ways to orchestrate and direct lighting fixtures. Firstly, handheld remote controls are model-specific and allow users to adjust lights from a distance. Controllers look and act like mixing boards and take DMX channels as inputs. DMX cables connect light fixtures to controllers and interfaces. Interfaces are a third option. They link DMX lighting fixtures into USB so you can direct your lights with a computer.

Lighting Software

Gain complete command over your LED fixtures and DMX-driven effects, create impressive transitions and chases, and explore the capabilities of contemporary, robust lighting software. While many lighting controllers come with bundled lighting software, there are also alternative aftermarket options available.

Spotlights

Lighting, like speakers, comes in a huge variety of sizes, functions, and power options. Spotlights are the quintessential stage lights, as they are found in venues of every size. Traditionally, spotlights were aimed and operated manually, but nowadays, most can be operated and focused remotely. Spotlights are especially useful for highlighting individuals onstage or for projecting powerful moving ovals of light at live shows.

PAR Cans

PAR cans (“parabolic aluminized reflector” lights) provide flat light and do not move in the way spotlights do. PAR can lamps come in five different sizes, which project different size pools of light: very narrow spot, narrow spot, medium flood, wide flood, and extra-wide flood. For colored light, a color gel can be laid over the lamp. Alternatively, a PAR might combine several small LED lights, which are capable of changing color without the use of gels.

Color and Wash Lights

Set the mood with color and wash lights from all the top brands. From preconfigured PAR systems and LED wash lights to accent tube lights and moving head wash systems, we have everything you need to fill your stage, event venue, or conference room with dazzling splashes of color!

Strobes, Lasers, and Effects Lights

For performers looking for a little more panache, Sweetwater also carries a variety of lasers, strobes, and other exciting effects. Strobe lights are known for their blinding, pulsing flashes. While a spotlight shines a single oval light, lasers shoot out hundreds of thin, rotating beams of light. Other lights offer a more subtle ambience, great for mood lighting in clubs, bars, and restaurants.

Stands, Clamps, and Accessories

Even the most elaborate lighting fixtures can do little good if they’re not wisely and securely installed. Sweetwater carries numerous lighting stands, trusses, clamps, and accessories, including cables, connectors, utility bags, and more.

How to Shop for Lighting at Sweetwater

Shopping for lighting at Sweetwater is a breeze! You can sort by category to find the lights you’re looking for and narrow down your choices further with our helpful filters. Sort by brand, price, and financing options, and get even more granular with options like DMX compatibility, LED type, and more! You can also explore our many articles and videos, such as our picks for 10 best lighting consoles and our musician’s guide to stage lighting for DMX lighting. Plus, if you’re not sure where to begin, then our expert Sweetwater Sales Engineers are here to help. Please contact us at (800) 222-4700 for personalized recommendations and industry-leading support!