Used ETC SmartFade
Used ETC SmartFade consoles are compact lighting control desks suited to theatre, concerts, events and installations, offering intuitive operation across a range of channel counts and memory capacities. Available in several variants including the SmartFade ML and channel-specific models, second-hand units provide reliable DMX control at accessible prices. Scroll down to see the used ETC SmartFade listings currently available.
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ETC SmartFade specifications
| Brand | ETC |
| Segment | Lighting |
About the ETC SmartFade
The ETC SmartFade is a lighting control console designed for both novice and experienced technicians across theatre, live events and installations. Depending on the variant, the console supports operation in two-scene or normal mode, with DMX outputs and inputs, multiple memories, and cue stack functionality allowing manual, timed or rate-override playback. A cross fader pair and additional sequence faders give hands-on control, while an SD card slot enables show backups. The interface is available in English, French, German and Spanish, making the SmartFade a practical choice for a wide range of production environments.
ETC SmartFade — buyer FAQs
What is the ETC SmartFade and what variants are available?
The ETC SmartFade is a DMX lighting control console aimed at theatre, live events and installations. Variants include the SmartFade ML and channel-specific models such as the 1296 and 2496. The 1296 offers up to 12 channels in two-scene mode or 96 channels in normal mode, while the ML provides a compact desk suited to a range of production environments. Each variant shares an interface available in English, French, German and Spanish.
Who makes the ETC SmartFade and where does it fit in the ETC range?
The SmartFade is made by Electronic Theatre Controls (ETC), an American lighting manufacturer founded in 1975 and headquartered in Middleton, Wisconsin. ETC produces consoles, dimming systems, fixtures and rigging for theatre, studio and live-event applications. The SmartFade sits as an accessible, compact control desk within that range, targeted at technicians who need reliable DMX control without the complexity of larger ETC consoles.
What does the ETC SmartFade 1296 offer in terms of control capacity?
The SmartFade 1296 provides up to 12 channels in two-scene mode or 96 channels in normal mode, with 512 DMX outputs and inputs and 288 memories. Cue stacks support up to 199 steps, with a cross fader pair and additional sequence faders allowing manual, timed or rate-override playback. An SD card slot handles show backups, making the console practical for touring and repertory situations.
What should I check when buying a used ETC SmartFade?
Check which variant you are buying, as channel count and memory capacity differ between models such as the 1296, 2496 and ML. Inspect fader heads and physical controls, as some used units are missing plastic fader caps. Confirm whether a power supply unit, case or SD card is included. Used units on 10K Used carry a 21-day warranty covering major functional faults; full guidance is at https://www.10kused.com/used-av-equipment-guide/.
What drives the price of a used ETC SmartFade?
Used SmartFade prices vary with the specific variant (ML, 1296, 2496), the unit's condition, any cosmetic wear or missing components such as fader heads, and whether accessories like a flight case or power supply unit are included. A console used on a single tour in a protective case will typically command a different price from a bare unit showing heavier wear. Check the live listings on this page for current asking prices.
