Obsidian Control Systems has announced the new ONYX NX Play, a compact expansion button wing designed to expand the physical command surface of the company’s ONYX lighting control platform. Created in response to user requests and feedback, NX Play provides programmers and buskers with additional direct access to playback functions in a compact, scalable format for use with both ONYX consoles and PC-based systems.
Designed around the same modular philosophy as the NX Series, NX Play provides an affordable entry point into the ONYX hardware ecosystem, adding physical playback control without changing the underlying ONYX architecture or established programming workflow. It gives users a straightforward way to add hands-on control capacity while maintaining existing show files, workflows, and system structure.
“NX Play is about giving programmers more physical access to the tools they already use,” explains Obsidian Control Systems Business Director Koy Neminathan. “It expands the control surface in a compact format while keeping the ONYX experience familiar. We developed it in response to what users have been asking for, and it provides an affordable way to add physical playback control without adding unnecessary complexity.”
At the heart of NX Play is a high-density array of 24 RGB-backlit buttons designed for quick identification and direct playback triggering. Each button can be customized to any color, providing flexible visual organization and clear feedback while supporting fast, tactile interaction in programming and live busking environments. An integrated OLED display and four dedicated Command Keys give users quick access to essential functions.
NX Play connects to ONYX systems via USB, with a focus on predictable, low-latency input response. Its hardware design follows a reliability-first approach intended for demanding professional environments, with a touring-grade enclosure and industrial design language aligned with the existing NX Series.
The module shares the same form factor as the NX K and features a magnetic alignment system that allows it to dock seamlessly with other NX hardware. This enables users to build out their physical control surface according to the needs of a particular system or application. NX Play can also be used independently as a MIDI device, extending its usefulness beyond the ONYX ecosystem and allowing it to serve as a compact physical control surface in other applications.
“Modularity has always been an important part of the NX Series,” Neminathan adds. “NX Play continues that approach by giving existing ONYX users a simple way to expand their physical playback control, while offering new users an easy entry point into the ONYX hardware ecosystem.”
NX Play unlocks a NOVA+ license, providing up to four universes of output along with full MIDI, OSC and timecode support. It requires no additional licensing tier beyond the host ONYX system, allowing users to expand their physical playback access without changing their existing software configuration. Its compact form factor makes it suitable for a range of applications, from touring and production environments to permanent installations and PC-based control systems.
NX Play is in stock and shipping now.
ONYX NX Play:
• 24 Tactile Button Pads
• OLED Display
• 4 Command Keys
• RGB Backlighting
• Magnetic Alignment System
• Portable + Compact
• ONYX Nova+ License
• USB-C Connection
• Dual Boot Modes: ONYX Mode, MIDI Mode
About Obsidian Control Systems
Obsidian Control Systems offers advanced yet intuitive lighting control products refined by over 30 years of expertise. Powered by the ONYX software platform, Obsidian consoles and PC systems are accessible to both beginners and professionals. The company also provides a full line of award-winning Netron data distribution solutions. Distributed worldwide by Elation, Obsidian products are available in a range of sizes to suit any scale or budget. Learn more at www.obsidiancontrol.com
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