Already have a Light-O-Rama AC Christmas light show and want to add RGB pixels? You do not have to start over. Keep the AC controllers, lights, props, and sequences you already enjoy, then add one pixel project at a time. You can stay with Light-O-Rama, or consider xLights later if it better fits your goals. This is the Mattos Designs roadmap for making the change without wasting money or losing a working show.
Start with what you already own
Traditional AC controllers turn a circuit of conventional lights on, off, or dim it. Addressable RGB pixels control individual light points and can display multiple colors and patterns on the same strand. Both can belong in the same display. Your existing AC mini lights, LED strings, arches, and other props still have value.
| Traditional AC show | Addressable RGB pixel show |
|---|---|
| One controller channel controls a connected circuit | Each pixel can be controlled individually |
| Uses compatible mains-powered light strings | Typically uses low-voltage DC pixels and a compatible pixel controller |
| Great for fades, chases, and whole-prop effects | Great for detailed color, movement, and image-like effects |
| Existing props can stay in service | New pixel props can be added alongside them |
Do I have to leave Light-O-Rama?
No. Light-O-Rama S6 supports pixel-based sequencing and appropriate network output options. You can continue building your show in LOR and add compatible pixel controllers. The important detail is the exact controller, firmware, license/features, protocol, and playback setup—not simply whether the controller says “pixels.” Verify those before buying.
Path A: Stay with Light-O-Rama
- Keep your existing AC controllers and working sequences.
- Choose a first pixel prop, compatible pixels, a suitable pixel controller, DC power supply, enclosure, and cables.
- Confirm how your particular pixel controller receives data from your LOR show computer or player. Ethernet-based E1.31/sACN or other supported methods may be options, depending on the equipment.
- Add the pixel prop to your LOR S6 preview and sequencing setup.
- Test the pixel prop by itself, then run a short sequence with both AC and pixels.
For LOR-specific basics, see Set Up Your First Pixel Prop in Light-O-Rama S6 and LOR, DMX and E1.31 Networks Explained.
Path B: Consider xLights when you are ready
xLights is another sequencing option, particularly useful when your display grows into many addressable models. But switching sequencing software is a separate project from buying pixels. If you want to bring existing AC hardware into an xLights-controlled show, confirm the exact LOR controller model, supported control mode, network interface, and configuration first. Not every older controller or adapter behaves the same way. Do not assume a USB LOR network plugs directly into an Ethernet pixel controller.
What should my first pixel project be?
Start small. A single coro prop, a short roofline section, a window outline, or a small set of stakes teaches you almost everything you need: pixel direction, model mapping, DC power, controller outputs, and testing. A MegaTree can be a fantastic second project, but it is usually more complicated as a first test.
For a first build, Mattos EVO pixels and compatible controller hardware can be a useful starting point. If you are considering Kraken products, check the connector family and product-specific requirements. Do not assume xConnect and Mconnect plug into each other without the correct adapter.
Shopping checklist: what is actually new?
- Pixels: select voltage, pixel type, spacing, count, and connector style for your prop.
- Pixel controller: choose a model that supports your pixel protocol and the control method you plan to use with LOR or xLights.
- DC power supply: match the pixel voltage and calculate the expected load with headroom.
- Enclosure and protection: use appropriate weather protection, fusing, wire sizing, strain relief, and safe mains wiring.
- Extensions and pigtails: match polarity, pinout, and connector type. Similar-looking plugs are not proof of compatibility.
- Mounting or coro: choose a physical prop that matches the planned pixel count and spacing.
- Software and network: verify your current LOR version/license, controller protocol, network equipment, and playback method before ordering.
Use our RGB shopping checklist, connector compatibility guide, and power planning guide to fill in the details.
How do the AC and pixel controllers work together?
Think of the show computer or player as the conductor. It sends the correct control data to each kind of controller using its supported network and protocol. The AC controller still drives the AC strings; the pixel controller drives the low-voltage pixels. The two do not have to share a power supply, and they generally should not share an output connection.
Important: Never connect low-voltage pixels directly to an AC controller output. Never feed mains AC voltage into a pixel controller's DC output. Keep AC wiring and low-voltage wiring correctly separated, protected, and installed to applicable electrical requirements.
What about Baldrick controllers?
Mattos MD1500 Baldrick controllers are an option for pixel projects, but the exact integration with your LOR sequencing and playback setup must be verified before purchase. A controller's ability to run pixels does not automatically mean every LOR output mode, protocol, or player configuration is supported. Start with our Baldrick quick-start guide, port and power planning, and the specific controller documentation.
A practical four-stage conversion plan
Stage 1: Preserve the show that already works
Back up your LOR sequences, audio, configuration, network settings, and controller assignments. Label your AC circuits. Do not dismantle working props just to begin experimenting.
Stage 2: Build and bench-test one pixel prop
Connect the pixel controller, correctly matched DC supply, and one short pixel string. Confirm voltage and polarity before power-up. Use the controller's built-in test mode if available, then test live control from your chosen sequencing software.
Stage 3: Sequence AC and pixels together
Add the new prop to your preview, create a short test sequence, and confirm that AC channels and pixel outputs respond correctly. Save a new version rather than overwriting your proven show.
Stage 4: Expand only after a full rehearsal
Run the actual player or show computer, audio, networks, and lights together. Confirm the scheduled show works—not just a controller test pattern. Once one prop is reliable, add another.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Buying pixels before deciding on voltage, controller, and connector family
- Assuming an AC dimmer output can power pixels
- Assuming LOR USB networks, Ethernet, E1.31, DDP, and DMX are interchangeable
- Ignoring pixel power requirements and voltage drop
- Replacing all existing AC props before testing one new pixel prop
- Buying a controller without confirming compatibility with your exact LOR workflow
- Testing only in controller mode and never rehearsing the complete show
Frequently asked questions
Can I run AC lights and pixels in the same song?
Yes, with supported controllers, network configuration, and sequencing/playback software. Both types of lights can be part of the same timed show.
Do I have to buy a new computer?
Not necessarily. Start by checking your current system against the software and show requirements. Larger pixel counts and complex effects can increase processing and storage demands.
Do I have to replace all my AC controllers?
No. Keep compatible AC controllers in service as long as they meet your safety and sequencing needs.
Can I reuse my AC power cables for pixels?
Do not assume so. Pixel wiring must be rated and configured for the correct DC voltage, current, connector pinout, and environment. Never repurpose a mains-powered AC output as a pixel data/power connection.
Should I start with a MegaTree?
You can, but a smaller prop usually makes the learning process easier. Learn one controller port and one pixel model first, then scale up.
Is xLights required for Baldrick?
Do not assume either way. Confirm the particular Baldrick model's supported input protocols and how your LOR software or player outputs data. We can help you choose a supported combination before you buy.
Let Mattos help plan the next step
Send us four things: your current LOR controller models, your sequencing software/version, the prop you want to add, and whether you run the show from a computer or player. We can help identify the right questions to answer before you order a pixel controller, power supply, and lights.
Contact Mattos Designs or browse the Learning Center. You do not need to replace a show you love to build the next version of it.
