The NovaStar C1 control console is NovaStar’s dedicated event controller — a hardware stage control console for the company’s video processors (J6, N9, VE7, and H Series). With dual LCD screens, a joystick, and a T-Bar, it gives rental crews and broadcast operators tactile, one-person control when software alone is too slow.
This guide covers the C1’s key features, specs, setup flow, and pricing.
Table
1. What Is the NovaStar C1?
The NovaStar C1 is an event controller developed by NovaStar for its terminal video processing products. In plain terms, it is a dedicated video control console that lets one operator manage layering, transitions, and presets on a connected processor without touching a PC.
At its center are two LCD screens. The left screen monitors input sources, PVW (preview), and PGM (program); the right screen is a touch panel for configuring each preset — layer size, layer position, input source, output resolution, layer border, and input-source cropping. A joystick precisely adjusts layer size and position, while the T-Bar finely controls switching and transition effects. Together with clearly lit buttons, the C1 makes live stage control fast and intuitive.
Quick take: if your team runs NovaStar J6 or N9 processors on stage and wants tactile, one-person control of multi-layer switching, the C1 is the console that completes the rig.
2. Key Features of the C1
Before walking through the setup, here are the five core features that make the NovaStar C1 control console practical for live LED production: dual-screen monitoring, precise joystick/T-Bar control, generous preset storage, deep layer and mosaic tools, and multi-device command.
2.1 Dual LCD Screens & Touch Operation
The C1’s standout design is its dual LCD screens. One screen shows the live status of input sources, PVW, and PGM, so the operator always knows what is on the wall. The other is a touchscreen for building layouts. Seeing both the source and the result at once keeps the whole show under control — no guessing what a button just did.
2.2 Joystick & T-Bar Control
Fine adjustments are where the C1 earns its keep. The joystick moves and resizes layers with precision, and its sensitivity is adjustable. The T-Bar supports 1024 levels of layer transparency, giving smooth manual fade transitions between presets and between PVW and PGM. For operators who have fought with a mouse during a live cut, tactile control is a major step up.
2.3 Up to 32 Presets
The console stores up to 32 presets, each recallable from a dedicated button. Presets can be copied, loaded, saved, cleared, and button-locked to prevent accidental changes mid-show. For events with a fixed running order — opening, keynote, break, live camera, sponsor loop — one-button preset recall keeps transitions clean and repeatable.
2.4 Multi-Layer & Mosaic Tools
The C1 drives up to 8 layers plus 1 BKG on the connected processor (newer firmware also adds OSD and LOGO layers). It supports free layer editing, layer color and border adjustment, layer freezing, input-source cropping, cloning, and keying. Both Easy Mosaic and Advanced Mosaic are supported, so operators can build anything from a simple side-by-side to a complex multi-screen creative.
2.5 Multi-Device Control
One C1 can command up to 16 terminal devices on the same network. In multiple-control mode, a single action — FTB (fade to black), freeze, or TAKE — applies to every connected processor at once. That is what makes the C1 the brain of a multi-screen rental rig rather than just a single-box remote.
3. NovaStar C1 Technical Specifications
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Screens | 2× LCD (left monitor, right touchscreen) |
| Controlled devices | NovaStar processors (J6, N9, VE7, H Series); up to 16 units |
| Layers | Up to 8 layers + 1 BKG (plus OSD/LOGO on supported firmware) |
| Presets | Up to 32, with copy / lock / recall |
| Transition effects | 13 layer transition effects, adjustable duration |
| T‑Bar | 1024 levels of layer transparency |
| Control modes | Single‑device control, multiple‑device control |
| Ethernet (RJ45) | 1× for remote control over network |
| USB | 1× for program update / PC connection |
| U‑DISK | 1× for importing / exporting config files |
| Monitor | 1× IN (HDMI) + 1× LOOP (HDMI) |
| RS232 | 1× for control PC |
| Power | AC 100–240V, 50/60Hz, 50 W |
| Operating temp | 0°C to 50°C |
| Dimensions | 817.9 × 563.8 × 190.4 mm |
| Net weight | 14 kg |
| Certifications | CE, ROHS, FCC, IC, KC |
| Noise level | 38 dB(A) |
All ports sit on the rear panel: the RJ45 handles network control of the processor, USB connects to a control PC or for firmware update, U-DISK imports/exports show files, and the HDMI Monitor IN/LOOP passes a preview feed to an external screen.
4. How to Set Up the NovaStar C1
This section covers the practical NovaStar C1 setup flow and the workflow tips that save time on site.
4.1 Network Hardware Connection
1.Power on the C1 and the target processor (e.g. a NovaStar J6 or N9).
2.Connect the C1’s Ethernet (RJ45) port to the same network as the processor — directly, or through a switch/router.
3.Make sure the C1 and the controlled device share the same network segment (set static IP if needed in Communication Settings).
4.Optional: link the Monitor LOOP HDMI to an external preview monitor so a second operator can watch PVW/PGM.
4.2 Adding & Configuring Devices
1.On the home screen, tap Configuration → Adding Devices.
2.The C1 auto-discovers online NovaStar processors; select the unit(s) and tap Add.
3.Once added, tap the device to connect — its front-panel number button turns green when live.
4.Under Device Properties, set inputs (EDID), outputs, and choose Easy or Advanced Mosaic.
Workflow tip: name each processor clearly in V-Can before pairing, so the C1 device list reads by role (e.g. “Main Wall”, “Side Screen”) instead of bare IP addresses.
4.3 Presets & Transition Workflow Tips
- Build in PVW, push with TAKE. Edit layouts on the preview screen, then use TAKE or the T-Bar to send them to PGM — the audience never sees the building process.
- Program presets in order. Save the show’s running order as presets 1–N so the operator can step through them blindly under stage pressure.
- Use the T-Bar for manual fades. For musical or emotional beats, ride the 1024-level T-Bar instead of a hard cut.
- Lock the preset area. Enable preset-button locking before the show so nothing is bumped mid-performance.
- Export to USB. Save presets and BKG to a U-DISK so a backup C1 can be swapped in without re-programming.
4.4 Single vs Multiple Control Mode
- Single-device mode — one C1 drives one processor; the green button marks the unit you are operating.
- Multiple-control mode — one C1 commands several processors at once, applying FTB, freeze, or TAKE across all of them simultaneously. This is the mode that turns a pile of boxes into one coordinated wall.
5. Live‑Stage Solution: C1 + J6 & N9
For large-scale stage performances and rental events, a stable, efficient, and flexible LED control system is essential. The NovaStar C1 + J6 / N9 is a professional combination solution built for exactly these needs, giving rental companies and show teams tactile control over NovaStar’s most popular processors.
5.1 Core Advantages
(1) Tactile, One-Person Control
Instead of a laptop and a mouse, the operator runs layering, transitions, and presets from the C1’s dual screens and T-Bar — faster and far less error-prone during a live cut.
(2) Unified Multi-Device Command
A single C1 synchronizes several J6 or N9 units, pushing FTB, freeze, and TAKE across the whole rig at once. Complex multi-screen stages become one coordinated show.
(3) Adaptable to Diverse Stage Layouts
From indoor studios to outdoor festivals and mobile stages, the C1 adjusts output resolution, aspect ratio, and mosaic layout to fit any screen size and viewing angle.
(4) Rapid Deployment and Backup
Presets export to USB, devices are discovered automatically, and a spare C1 drops in without re-programming — exactly what tight load-in schedules demand.
With the NovaStar C1 + J6 / N9 combination, rental and broadcast teams gain not only precise control and smooth transitions, but also lower operational risk on show day. Contact us to plan your stage rig.
5.2 Typical Applications of the NovaStar C1
Because it commands NovaStar processors with tactile precision, the C1 fits a wide range of live and fixed display projects:
- Stage rental & live events — multi-camera mixes, sponsor loops, and backdrop walls under one operator.
- Broadcast & studio environments — frame-accurate cuts and unified control of multi-screen sets.
- Conference & command centers — speaker slides, live video, and data layers switched cleanly.
- Exhibition halls & commercial displays — scheduled preset switching for fresh promotional content.
- Fixed installations & control rooms — multiple processors run as one wall from a single console.
6. NovaStar C1 Price: Get a Quote
If you are budgeting for a console, the NovaStar C1 price usually lands in an estimated range of USD $4,500–$5,500 based on public reseller listings (e.g. ~$5,269 at one distributor, ~$5,125 at another). This is only a rough estimate, not an official NovaStar price — your actual cost depends on the factors below, and the most reliable way to get a real-time, up-to-date figure is to contact us with your processor model and show requirements.
Note: This estimated price range is collected from third‑party public reseller listings only, actual cost will vary by region, accessories and order volume. We do not guarantee this pricing.
6.1 What Affects the NovaStar C1 Price
- Supply channel — Authorized NovaStar dealers typically include warranty and support, while marketplace resellers may look cheaper upfront but vary in reliability and after-sales service.
- Bundled accessories — flight case, gooseneck lights, USB drive, and spare cables change the total package price.
- Order quantity — A single unit costs more per piece; rental fleets or multi-console purchases usually unlock volume discounts.
- Region & logistics — Import duties, local taxes, and freight differ by destination and can shift the landed cost noticeably.
- Warranty & service — Extended warranty or on-site training packages add to the price but reduce long-term risk.
6.2 Get Your Exact Quote
Because every rig is different, we don’t publish a fixed tag price. Share your processor models (J6, N9, etc.), screen count, and control needs, and our team will return a tailored quote with lead time. Contact us to start.
7. NovaStar C1 vs V-Can Software: Which Should You Use?
A common question is whether a team needs the NovaStar C1 or can simply run everything from NovaStar V-Can software. They are not rivals — they cover different moments.
| Aspect | NovaStar C1 (console) | NovaStar V‑Can (software) |
|---|---|---|
| Form | Dedicated hardware console | PC/Mac application |
| Best for | Live shows, fast tactile switching | Pre‑show programming, fine editing |
| Control feel | Joystick + T‑Bar + physical buttons | Mouse / keyboard |
| Multi‑device command | Native, one‑touch across devices | Per‑device, less immediate on stage |
| Portability on stage | Self‑contained, no laptop needed | Needs a computer on site |
In practice, most professional rigs use both: V-Can for building and polishing layouts beforehand, and the C1 for running the show live. If your work is static or you always have an operator at a computer, V-Can alone may suffice; for live rental and broadcast, the C1 pays for itself in speed and confidence.
8. Resources Download
All resources below are official NovaStar documents. You can also browse our full Manual Download page for more NovaStar products.
9. FAQs
What devices can the NovaStar C1 control?
The C1 controls NovaStar video processors such as the J6, N9, VE7, and H Series, with support for up to 16 units on one network.
How many presets does the C1 support?
Up to 32 presets, each recallable from a dedicated button, with copy, lock, and clear functions.
What is the T-Bar on the C1 used for?
The T-Bar provides 1024 levels of layer transparency for smooth manual fade transitions between presets and between PVW and PGM.
Can one C1 control multiple processors at once?
Yes. In multiple-control mode, a single C1 applies FTB, freeze, or TAKE across all connected devices simultaneously.
Do I need V-Can if I have a C1?
Not always. The C1 runs the show live on its own, but V-Can is handy for building and fine-tuning layouts beforehand.
How many layers can the C1 manage?
The C1 drives up to 8 layers plus 1 BKG on the connected processor, with layer cropping, keying, and border options.
Does the C1 support seamless switching?
Yes. With 13 transition effects and manual T-Bar fades, the C1 delivers smooth cuts without black screens.
What is the typical NovaStar C1 price?
The C1 is estimated around USD $4,500–$5,500; contact us for an exact quote based on your configuration and order volume.
10. Conclusion
The NovaStar C1 control console turns NovaStar’s J6, N9, and H Series processors into a rig one operator can actually run live. With dual LCD screens, a precise joystick and 1024-level T-Bar, 32 presets, and command over up to 16 devices, it is built for the pressure of stage and broadcast work.
If you are planning an LED control system and want help choosing between the C1, the J6, or the N9, contact us for a tailored recommendation and the latest pricing.For more LED controller and video processor products, please visit our official website.