r/mobileDJ - Lighting the DJ booth

Image sourced from Reddit 

A fascinating and unforgettable DJ set requires more than just generating original and captivating music. 

The visual component of performance is very important, and one of the key components that can significantly enhance the utility and aesthetic appeal of a DJ setup is the use of truss light stands. 

These strong, adaptable structures provide several advantages that can elevate the design of your setup to a stage worthy of professional production. 

This article explores the many benefits of using truss light stands in your DJ setup.

  • Increased Stability and Safety

  • One of the critical advantages of truss light stands in setup is the more prominent reliability and security they give. The main advantage of these stands, which are frequently made of strong materials like steel or aluminum, is safely holding weighty lighting hardware. 

    These stands are a much more reliable option for proficient DJs because of their strength and simplicity of transportation. Because truss systems can support a lot of weight, there is less chance that equipment may topple over or collapse during a performance. 

    This steadiness is critical to avoiding damage to the priceless equipment as well as ensuring the audience's safety.

    Truss slight stands offer extreme durability that also makes them less vulnerable to wear and tear, ensuring their reliability over a lengthy period. For DJs who need equipment that can handle multiple performances, it is extremely important. 

    Truss supports are built to surpass stringent safety regulations, so you can rest easy knowing your equipment is secure. When DJs are less worried about accidents or broken equipment, they can focus more on giving an amazing performance.

  • Flexibility and Personalisation

  • Because truss light stands are so versatile and customizable, DJs can adjust their setups to fit a variety of locations and performance requirements. Truss frameworks offer adaptability in plan and design since they might be set up in various sizes and shapes. 

    This flexibility is particularly useful for DJs who play in different areas, from close clubs to outdoor musical events. Truss stands to give DJs the ability to install lights, speakers, and other equipment at many points, allowing them to build a personalized lighting scheme that amplifies the visual impact of their performance.

    The lights' movable height and angle enable dynamic and imaginative lighting effects that enhance the show's depth and intensity.

    Truss systems are easily expandable or reconfigurable based on their modular design. DJs can modify their setups to fit various performance venues and specifications because of this scalability. 

    For smaller performances, a DJ might begin with a simple truss setup and then progressively add more trusses and lighting equipment as they take on bigger events. This adaptability guarantees that the DJ's gear will develop with their career, making it an investment in their professional setup that will last a lifetime.

  • Maintaining a Professional Image

  • Making a good first impression on the audience requires a polished appearance, and truss light stands are actually good at it. Truss systems give a sophisticated, polished appearance that elevates any DJ setup to a higher level of aesthetic appeal and professionalism. 

    This well-maintained appearance can improve the audience's entire experience by fostering a more engaging and joyful atmosphere. 

    To further improve the DJ's polished appearance, trusses can be utilized to hang banners, logos, or other branding components. For DJs attempting to really establish themselves and advance in the business, this marking opportunity is particularly gainful.

    A very well-designed can have an enduring effect on the crowd, making the performance more essential and improving the probability of additional appointments;  the professional appearance of truss systems can also attract higher-paying gigs, as venues and event organizers are bound to employ DJs who introduce themselves professionally. 

    This professional approach is particularly valuable for DJs hoping to lay out their name and advance it in the business.

  • Effective Use of Space

  • At DJ concerts, space is frequently at a premium, so making effective use of what is actually available is essential to building a well-organized and practical setup. 

    By raising lights and other equipment off the ground and freeing up useful floor space, truss light stands contribute to the best possible use of available space. 

    This elevation facilitates better accessibility and organization of the setup by enabling the DJ to roam about more freely and handle their equipment more skillfully. 

    Many such systems are effectively movable and storable when not being used thanks to their structure and design. It effectively allows them to be dismantled and stored easily. For DJs who need to travel a great deal for their work responsibilities, this transportability is a tremendous advantage.

    By elevating lighting fixtures and other equipment, truss stands assist create a cleaner and create an area free of congestion. This better organization can boost the whole workflow for the DJ, making it easier to access and operate their equipment throughout a performance.

    In addition to ensuring better coverage of the space, the lights' elevated location produces a more consistent and impactful lighting display. Especially for DJs who play in smaller venues with constrained floor space, this effective utilization of space is crucial.

  • Better Lighting Effects

  • Proper lighting is an essential part of any DJ performance, and truss light stands offer the best placement for lights to produce the desired effects. Because lights can be mounted at various heights and angles, truss systems let DJs create dynamic and captivating light shows that improve the audience's overall experience. 

    Proper lighting placement allows for better coverage and more creative lighting designs, which can turn an ordinary DJ set into an eye-catching performance that draws attention from the crowd and elevates the atmosphere.

    Because of their adaptability, truss stands can support a broad variety of lighting sources, from basic spotlights to sophisticated moving heads and laser systems. DJs may create attractive visual experiences for each performance by experimenting with different lighting effects thanks to this capacity. 

    Truss stands allow for better lighting effects, which may assist create the tone and energy of the event and make sure that the visuals exactly match the music. The audience must be captivated and kept interested throughout the performance for the immersive experience created by the sound and light working together.

    Here is a quick youtube video of using crank stands for rotary DJ lighting 


  • Setup and Transport Ease

  • Due to their modular construction, truss light stands make the labor- and time-intensive operation of setting up and taking down a DJ setup easier. Setup and takedown are made more efficient by the ease of assembly and disassembly often found in many truss systems. 

    DJs that play many venues will especially benefit from this setup ease as it saves them time and work in getting ready for each show. 

    Truss construction is made of lightweight materials that make it easy to move, which adds to its convenience for traveling DJs. Truss light stands are a useful and effective option for any DJ due to their portability and simplicity of setup.

    Truss systems' modular construction makes storage and transportation simple. The trusses are easy to transport between concerts since they can be disassembled and put into small containers or bags. 

    This portability is especially crucial for traveling DJs who have to move their gear around a lot. The truss system's rapid and simple setup and breakdown allow for greater performance by reducing the amount of time spent on logistics.

  • Important Collaborations

  • DJs and event planners can work together and build a sense of community by using truss light stands. Numerous truss systems are compatible with industry-standard components, which facilitates professional collaboration and equipment integration from various sources. 

    This adaptability can result in stage designs that are more imaginative and well-rounded, improving the experience for both audiences and performers as a whole.

    Collaboration between DJs and event planners through the use of common truss systems facilitates a smoother setup and breakdown procedure. 

    This more efficient teamwork can result in more effective event planning, guaranteeing that performances begin on schedule and proceed without hiccups.

    Additionally, DJs may experiment with new setups and techniques, pushing the boundaries of their creativity, thanks to the ability to share and integrate equipment.

  • Environmental Aspects to Take into Account

  • The ability of truss light stands to be environmentally sustainable is another benefit. Because aluminum is a recyclable material, truss systems have a lower environmental effect during production and disposal. 

    Furthermore, truss stands require less maintenance due to their longevity and durability, which reduces waste even further.

    DJs can use truss systems in an environmentally responsible manner. For instance, employing LED lights that consume less energy and utilizing fewer throwaway materials can help minimize the environmental impact of their performances.

    DJs can help create a more sustainable industry and encourage eco-friendly practices in the entertainment industry by adopting ecologically conscious decisions.

  • Investing in Your Setup for the Future

  • Investing in a future-proof DJ setup is crucial as both technology and trends keep on changing and evolving. A foundation that is adaptable to future advancements in lighting, sound, and visual effects is offered by truss light stands. 

    A high-quality truss system is an investment that DJs can make to guarantee that their setup is up-to-date and able to use the newest tools and methods.

    Top DJ Truss Light Stands

    Here is a list of top 8 DJ truss lighting stands

  • Crank Truss Stand

  • The crank truss stand is a heavy stand with a T-bar adapter for hanging lighting trusses. It is quite stable and has three different stages of interlocking poles.

    Specifications

    • The weight of each strand is 40 pounds
    • The weight capacity of the stand is 285 pounds
    • The height of the stand can be adjusted from 68 to 137 inches
    • The heavy-duty steel gauge is used of 2.5 mm
    • The stand has 3 stage interlocking poles

    Pros

    • The weight capacity of the stand is high, which is its plus point
    • The heavy-duty material is used for the construction that helps in the durability of the stand
    • The stand has a solid base, and the 3 stage interlocking poles help in the stability of the stand
    • The stand is quite easy to set, and adjusting is also easy

    Cons

    • The stand is a bit expensive
    • Manual cranking is an issue for some

  • Truss T-Adapters

  • The truss T adapters are 2.5mm thick steel built T adapters that easily fit all the square or triangle trusses.

    Specifications

    • The length of the T adapter is 18 inches
    • The weight capacity of each of the T adapters is 275 pounds
    • The weight of the T adapter is 7 pounds
    • The vertical mounting pipe length is 4.5inches
    • The stand can fit standard lighting stand poles from 35 to 38 mm
    • The stand is made up of high-quality steel material

    Pros

    • The stand is made of steel, making it highly stable, durable, and capable of handling heavy loads.
    • The stand is easy to use
    • The stand has a high weight capacity and a lower own weight, making it a go-to product for people needing a higher-weight capacity lighting truss stand.

    Cons

    • The truss T adapter is limited in its use. It needs an existing trussing system; it's working. 
    • The T Adapter does not have any height adjustment feature.

    Here is what our client Leanne Collins has to say about the product

    Good deal!

    Bought this directly from GeekStands. Prompt shipping and a good stand for the price. I actually didn't expect it to be this sturdy at this price, but it's good quality! Would recommend this stand

  • Cheapest Crank Truss Stand

  • The cheapest crank truss stand fits all the standard triangle and square truss sizes. It has two interlocking poles for stability. A manual crank gear system on the stand makes hoisting different lights or heavy equipment easy.

    Specifications

    • The weight capacity of the stand is 200 pounds
    • The weight of the stand is 40 pounds
    • The height adjustable from 60 inches to 114 inches
    • The T adapter's overall length is 17 ⅜ inches 
    • The Length of each leg on a tripod is 34 inches

    Pros

    • The stand is quite affordable, and it is the cheapest crank truss stand
    • The stand is quite lightweight, so the probability element is top-notch
    • The stand can easily be adjusted in terms of height 

    Cons

    • The weight capacity might be lower in comparison to some other stands
    • The manual cranking of the stand-ins is an issue

    Here is a review from our client Jayden Butler regarding the product

    Great value

    These are great for the size, I’ve used them 2 days in a row at different events. In my opinion they are much better used inside vs outside. When I was at my indoor event (in picture I included) stands work well. I also used them at an outside event and with a breeze blowing I was worried about everything falling over - these are tripod stands, not stands with outriggers. That being said I will continue to use them and love the size for inside, not sure I’ll use them again outside, but time will tell

  • Triangle Truss Adapter Kit

  • The triangle truss adapter kit includes two extensions, each with 5 ft 10 hanging truss clamps and 2 T-bar adapters. The truss extension has a six by six by six triangle frame that helps make it sturdy.

    Specifications

    • The total product weight is 32 pounds
    • The C clamp weight capacity is 44 pounds each
    • The truss pipes are black powder coated and are 28.5 mm in diameter
    • The total weight capacity is 200 pounds when using two sections 
    • The total weight capacity is 140 pounds when using four truss sections
    • The diameter of the diagonal bracing is 6.5 mm
    • The total span width is 118 inches

    Pros

    • The stand is durable because of the material used in its construction.
    • The stand is lightweight and easy to carry
    • The stand provides a secure fit for all the trusses
    • The stand is easy to install and detach

    Cons

    • The Stand is limited to the triangular trusses only
    • There is no such height-adjustable feature present in the stand

  • 2x30W Spot Moving Head, 6x5W PAR, 10W RGBW Butterfly Strobe 4in1

  • The 2x30W Spot Moving Head, 6x5W PAR, 10W RGBW Butterfly Strobe 4in1 is a lighting powerhouse that can bring the stage to life. With seven patterns and seven lighting colours, it can create an immersive lighting experience.

    Specifications

    • The product uses a voltage of 100-240 with a 50-60 Frequency 
    • The total power of all the equipment in the product is  300 watts
    • The lights can rotate 540 degrees horizontally
    • The lights can go up to 270 degrees vertically 
    • The product has strobe beads, butterfly lights and light strips.
    • The product lights contain 7 colors and seven different patterns

    Pros

    • The product helps create an immersive, versatile light experience that excites the audience.
    • The DMX control helps a great deal in the customization
    • The product is in one package thus, there is no need of anything else for lighting

    Cons

    • The product can be a bit expensive for some
    • The setup might be a bit difficult as it requires some knowledge

  • Triangle Truss 3-Pack

  • r/lightingdesign - Advice for Truss/Lighting Design

    Image sourced from Reddit

    The triangle truss three pack is a product containing three truss extensions, each 5 ft long. The truss extensions are sturdy and reliable, and they can mount lights and gears for all events.

    Specifications

    • The total width span is 59 inches
    • The triangle truss extension is 6 inches in width on all the sides
    • The diameter of the truss pipes is 28.5
    • The weight of each truss is 8 pounds
    • The total weight capacity is 200 pounds when using three sections
    • The total weight capacity is 140 pounds when using four sections

    Pros

    • The modular design of the truss extension makes them good for customizable setups.
    • The truss extension is lightweight, so transportation becomes easier
    • The truss extensions are compatible with different adapters
    • The truss extensions are durable due to the heavy-duty material used in their construction.  

    Cons

    • The stand doesn't have any height-adjustable feature
    • The truss extension can't work on its own; it requires an existing setup

    Here is a comparison table for the products

    Product 

    Best For

    Highlighting

    Features

    Pros Cons
    Crank Truss Stand Large Events High Weight Capacity High weight capacity, durable, easy setup, stable Expensive, manual crank effort
    Truss T-Adapters Budget Solutions Affordability Affordable, durable, easy attachment, corrosion-resistant Limited to existing trussing systems, no height adjustment
    Cheapest Crank Truss Stand Small to Medium Events Lightweight and Portable Affordable, lightweight, easy height adjustment Lower weight capacity, manual crank effort
    Triangle Truss Adapter Kit Custom Truss Setups Secure Attachment Durable, lightweight, easy installation, secure fit Limited to triangle trusses, no height adjustment
    2x30W Spot Moving Head Package Versatile Lighting Multiple Effects Versatile effects, DMX control, all-in-one, high brightness Expensive, setup knowledge required, not a trussing solution
    Griffin Triangle Truss 3-Pack Modular Truss Systems Customizability Durable, modular, lightweight, compatible Requires additional accessories, no built-in height adjustment

    Why Choose GeekStands for Truss Light Stands

    Geekstands often opt for truss light stands because of our adherence to top-notch quality and performance. The features of portability, durability, and a wide range of options and their availability make us a go-to place for truss light stands.

    At Geekstands, we provide high-quality truss light stands that enhance performance overall. Users get the desired lighting, which improves performance.  

    Our stands provide our users with portability and durability options. They are designed to be highly durable and can withstand harsh conditions and wear and tear commonly associated with events and performances. The stands are also portable, meaning that transportation is not an issue.

    With all these features, the variety of the stands is also a plus point that users get at GeekStands.You can shop for different truss stands that cater to your needs.

    So, with all these features, there is nothing more one can ask for. So, if you want to buy a truss light stand, visit GeekStands