FLX S48 vs. FLX vs. Colorsource AV40 control console

[Gpquinn]

I'm replacing on old but much loved ETC express board,and I think I've narrowed it down to these options. I'm not clear what the difference is between the FLX S and the plain FLX consoles.
I run a community theater/ classroom/ meeting space in a nicely converted junior high school multi-use room. I need something that can run theatrical and dance performances, but that can also be used for an on/off with easily accessible one or two looks. I'm running a bunch of LEDs and old incandescences. I don't anticipate getting moving fixtures due to the cost and the size and use of our space, but would like to have an option.
Since I'm going to have a bunch of people with little experience using this, I don't want to go with a PC based unit; I want a single console. Also, my budget runs to about $5,000.

Any advice is appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[jon.hole]

Hi @Gpquinn , I'm from Vari-Lite, who manufacture the FLX range.

Of the three consoles you mentioned, FLX S48 is most closely comparable to CS AV40, with FLX "above" both of those.

There's a YouTube Playlist of bitesized FLX S training videos here.

If you have any specific questions - I'm more than happy to answer here, or to jump on a Teams (/Zoom /whatever) call with you.

Jon