Can we simply run a second DMX from our board, creating a second universe just for our newer LEDs and movables (running direct to the fixtures, not through the SmartPacs)?
Yes.
Looking at DMX fixtures (with my very limited knowledge), is it a case of where I supply them power and the DMX signal and they become controllable from the board?
Generally, Yes. That's all that's needed.
I would hate to sink 20-30 thousand into upgrades only to find out I need some expensive special relays or ?? to make it all run.
Typically, the movers and LEDs are going to want to be powered on other-than-dimmers. So you would want some form of relay or power direct from a circuit breakers. Many will state that it's OK to run stuff on dimmers parked at full and that can work most of the time, until it doesn't and you fry the power supply of a fixture when somebody less skilled accidentally runs the dimmer power source to 70% or some such. Thus direct power is always recommended.
And by having multiple universes, does that create special challenges when programming and playing back cues for shows?
Nope, it's all straight forward once you learn the methods of getting the fixtures patched as multiple attribute fixtures as well as master the techniques to control and cue. Element and the Eos software work very well at this and there are a lot of video tutorials on the ETC website
Yes.
Looking at DMX fixtures (with my very limited knowledge), is it a case of where I supply them power and the DMX signal and they become controllable from the board?
Generally, Yes. That's all that's needed.
I would hate to sink 20-30 thousand into upgrades only to find out I need some expensive special relays or ?? to make it all run.
Typically, the movers and LEDs are going to want to be powered on other-than-dimmers. So you would want some form of relay or power direct from a circuit breakers. Many will state that it's OK to run stuff on dimmers parked at full and that can work most of the time, until it doesn't and you fry the power supply of a fixture when somebody less skilled accidentally runs the dimmer power source to 70% or some such. Thus direct power is always recommended.
And by having multiple universes, does that create special challenges when programming and playing back cues for shows?
Nope, it's all straight forward once you learn the methods of getting the fixtures patched as multiple attribute fixtures as well as master the techniques to control and cue. Element and the Eos software work very well at this and there are a lot of video tutorials on the ETC website