No longer using the Gig Bar Move!

In this video I explain why I am no longer using the Gig Bar Move.

[@tiquiocervantes4890]

With the fog machine it makes a really big difference and the parties won’t look so boring. Depends in every person too

[@djjoshuacarl]

I felt something similar after a few events, then using sound switch I changed the areas the lights hit… I didn’t want to abandon the inexpensive package lighting, it has been a major improvement (for me it was usually the horizontal movements hitting people sitting down) I love the look of a wash on a roof like that though 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@proper60]

Thats true. Gig bars are blinding and annoying. I still use them for house events due to the quick set up and breakdown

[@scottaber6860]

Great video! I have switched to wash lighting myself for the very same reasons.

[@djaceproductions]

the wash fx2 are that deal they can wash a whole area and they are bright. but what i always do with my washes and spot movers is dim them using whatever controller or software you use so they are not too harsh on the corneas or dont direct them to eye level

[@RhyBeats]

Thank you for this. Been trying to figure out a different approach on lighting.

[@stevedemusic2578]

I have a gig bar flex which i have added a par can & a laser to. It does basically what your wash lights do plus the gigbar & laser when needed really sets it off. Gigbars can be moded in pretty sick ways 👌

[@Sqeedledee]

Ok could you elaborate on this?

[@djcalvin681]

I have also switched from a gig bar to wash lights as well solid tip

[@jpwpro]

Nice!

[@DJLEOdamadprofessor]

Washfx are crazy bright. I been considering strictly using up lighting and hope the room reflects that light

[@jpwpro]

Yes they are bright, that’s why I bounce them off the ceiling at the venue. I don’t shine them directly on the people. Works great!

[@DJLEOdamadprofessor]

@@jpwpro so sort of my thoughts with uplighting just an easier way of doing it

[@djmadnez]

You can dim the wash FX with the onboard settings.

[@logisticalstyles]

I agree. I have two mini moving heads and I now realize how annoying they can be. Wash lighting is the way to go.

[@chriswong8262]

That is why you utilize DMX software to create scenes. Moving heads need to be used with the Wash lights for the best effect.

[@djelevateusa1714]

I think just the wash lighting is kind of boring and borderline lazy (Do you *really* think it's better, or do you just like the easy setup/teardown ;p ) . Great for pictures... but I'd want some more dynamic lighting action toward the end of the night/open dancing. I'd just leave the dynamic lighting off till that point. I use both Wash FX2 and Gigbar 2 depending on the event. I've gotten a lot of compliments on my lighting setup. I get it though - for things like weddings, you can probably skip a lot of work/risk by just using wash lighting.

[@jpwpro]

Over the years (20+) of DJing Weddings I've tried everything, moving heads using DMX, various other fixtures, Gig bars and now wash lights. If it take 5 mins or 20 mins for setup that's not really an issue for me. I just want what looks the best from the crowd/dance floor view. Since I started doing Gig logs I've been out in front of my set up more than ever and noticed the wash lights look WAY better than anything else I've used before. I do like the new ApeLab sticks XLs wash lights (video coming some) they are very bright and have excellent sound active mode. Very well made. They may be my new go to lights. 4 XL sticks would be about $1400.

[@Sqeedledee]

@@jpwpro Truly proper wash is the foundation everything else is built upon.

[@verslesurhomme]

Why not use both the gig bar move, and the Wash FX2's though?

[@jeffreymiller1031]

what lights are you using in the totem and table

[@neonhills]

Good video. Food for thought. I think Gig bars can still be a good option if you pair them with up lighting in the room. I'd say do both! Personally I was considering buying the gig bar move ILS and also buying other ILS fixtures for the uplighting so i could get an awesome coordinated light show without having to do any programming. Any thoughts on that?

[@Sqeedledee]

Yeah I gotta thought! Proper wash = bread & butter. Gigbar is just mostly just icing (cheap icing).

[@chriswong8262]

A pair of FX Wash and 2 Chauvet Intimidator 260's are my go to for all weddings. All DMX controlled. I have 40 fixtures, but wash lights always make the biggest impact.

[@jpwpro]

40 fixtures! Wow that's a lot.

[@chriswong8262]

@@jpwpro Not really - A dozen are used for Up-lighting. I also have 4 Chauvet Slim Quad beams that are also used for uplighting too.

[@jpwpro]

@@chriswong8262 Lol oh ok. Well if you’re counting uplights I have over 100 fixtures. I thought you meant dancefloor lighting.

[@nesentertainments]

I use the lights also for my basic light package. I dmx them so I can strobe the dance floor. I'm thinking of buying a second pair and spray painting them white.

[@jpwpro]

That's a great idea! Send me pics if you paint them. I would love to have them in white!

[@djjoeykmusic]

Great video Thank you

[@djjudy3180]

I use gig bar and I remove laser from it and mount wash fx 2 on this place.. much better :). you have benefit both worlds.

[@jpwpro]

That is an awesome idea!! Have any pics? Curious to see how that looks.

[@TheRealDjMikeStone]

Would love to see it working

[@Djneoaz]

Yup, agree… i just add 2 washers and works well

[@etandaze]

Agreed. I always thought dots look Cheesy at weddings. I as well well use wash

[@jpwpro]

I actually have been using ape labs sticks as a wash effect for smaller events. They also work great!

[@BlazinRiver1]

I am looking for a quick and easy set up. I am a live performer looper style rock funk, so I am wanting lighting for stage rather than crowd. Would this be a good choice?

[@jpwpro]

Yes I think it would be.

[@jeremybrown9516]

Well you might want to look what they just came out with now CHAUVET DJ GigBAR Move + ILS

[@monsieur-roro]

Great stuff, just got a pair based of your video. What's the best auto program mode for sound do you use? I just think the lights are moving too fast when I put them on sound mode.

[@jpwpro]

I actually use wireless DMX to SoundSwitch to control them. Works great!

[@djblakk86]

Odd question... What if you put them at the base of the truss and shot them upwards? And still, put the moving heads on the totems?

[@jpwpro]

That doesn't work for me because I angle them at the ceiling so they are not hitting people in the eyes.

[@Discoretrox]

I only use my gig bar bar with wash fx AND if I can use smoke...most times I can't use a smoker due to fire alarms, so use the chavet wash fxs along with a couple of adj light bars and the equinox crossfire.

[@David-sg4se]

Wash lighting is sooooo boring and and basic especially for a wedding where DJs are making over $1,000 in a night, what a slap in the face to the bride and groom! I use wash lighting for my basic package, small venue 100 guest or less like a small graduation party or baby shower. I still stand behind my moving heads and scanners on a full truss set up for my big events, which looks much more professional! I've never understood some youtube DJs that only have 2 wash lights and a few up lights running on the most expensive lighting software and hardware, blows my mind. Btw....I've never had an interest in the gig bar, I agree with what you said.

[@dj-to]

Love your clean setup! What lights are you using behind your facade and in the totems? Are they DMX-controlled as well?

[@jpwpro]

Check out the video on the lights I use: kzbin.info/www/bejne/b3LLYZeJeN1oeKM

[@dj-to]

@@jpwpro Thanks!

[@justingarret4776]

I also use Wash FX Hex on totems or the wash FX on gravity stands and movers on the totems. So much better. I hate tripods and polka dots and lasers all on the wedding guests isn't the best look for photos either which is why photographers hate them as well. You wouldn't believe the amount of photographers that actually bring it up and mention our lighting. If you make their job easier they're going to want to work with you again and are going to refer you. I have a few, I bought them with my DJ starter kit from Sweetwater. You know 15" Mackie thumps, a couple of gigbars and a Pioneer DDJ 200 lol I don't use them much anymore unless it goes out for a kids party on a Sunday or something.

[@Draama247]

Thank you man.

[@scratchgonzo]

So can I ask what your advice would be to someone just wanting to get lighting to do local birthday / wedding gigs? I'm new to all this hence me looking at gigbar cos I like the ease of setup. But if I can get a better look buying seperate lighting I should probably consider it. 2x wash hex? And some pars for up lights?

[@jpwpro]

For under a $1000. I would buy 2 - JMAZ Lighting Radiant Par TRON7 and 2 Rockville Totem Moving Head Light Stand+Black+White Scrims+Carry Bags This is my next purchase. Very cool lights and excellent control using RF remote. No DMX really needed.

[@scratchgonzo]

@@jpwpro I'll have to take a look at these. Are these to add to your hex wash lights?

[@jpwpro]

@@scratchgonzo Replace my HEX. They are actually a hybrid with a wash and LED effect. So two of these bad boys should be a great setup.

[@scratchgonzo]

@@jpwpro I'm inn he UK and they don't seem to sell them here they do look nice

[@scratchgonzo]

@@jpwpro I can get chauvet lights here in UK is the he swarm wash fx comparable to this? Or is that a bit too much? Sorry to keep pestering you 😂

[@georgethedj4946]

#1 Rule is to know your audience. You make great points in regards to how pictures will look better and the audience is less blinded in settings, like weddings. However, I believe using only up lights at a dance party may be the other extreme, especially when the crowd may enjoy multiple effect lights, like the gig bar. I know DJs that use, for example, Ape lights at a big party and claim it’s to help the guest have less blinding. Is it possible the DJ just likes the simplicity and less load time? Again, “know your audience “

[@jpwpro]

Thanks for your comment, To be honest the evolution of my light show has been from feed back from my audience. I've been doing this for 30 years and have tried all types of lights. I literally just did a wedding last night and a Groomsman came up to me at the end of the night and complimented me on the look of my light show. He said "I really like how your lights just spread across the room and don't hit me in the eyes when we are dancing" I told him that's the "Wash" style lighting and he said "Cool, can I have your card you were awesome tonight and I really like that style of lighting". Since this post I have added 4 Ape sticks 2.0 (2 are XLs). This in my opinion makes it even better. Simplicity and less load time is important too for me BUT it's not at the top of my list.

[@georgethedj4946]

@@jpwpro Awesome. You can not argue with success. Keep up the great videos and gigs.

[@rainbowgaming8441]

whats funny about my audience they are happy with everything

[@JimHornEntertainment]

How do you control wash fx?

[@jpwpro]

My DMX Go. Works great! I also use wireless XLR dongles.

[@DavidB_AudioTech]

Hello I just saw your configuration with the Bose L1pro16, Aren't you afraid of people falling or catching the L1 tower? I also have the Bose L1pro16 and every party I have people clinging or supporting themselves on the tower of the L1pro16.. Thank and nice setup :)

[@jpwpro]

Yes, but so far after about 20 events nothing like that has happened but it is a worry of mine. On the same note I've used tripod stands (which is a wider footprint) in the same spot and no one has ever tripped over it and knocked the speaker down in 20 yrs! So you just have to be alert for drunks lol.

[@djdocdarkside8346]

Curious what totems you are using? Been looking for a similiar setup

[@jpwpro]

They are the Rockville totems: www.amazon.com/Rockville-RTP32W-Totem-Moving-Scrims/dp/B07JBLLBNJ

[@djdocdarkside8346]

@@jpwpro Had a feeling thanks~!

[@DjTecniq]

My suggestion what about like 18 uplights along the venue and still use the gigbar? Would prob be a lot better. I wouldn’t attempt to do a wedding with just a Gigbar it’s not enough light.

[@scratchgonzo]

How do you control the wash fx units?

[@jpwpro]

I use sound switch with wireless DMX dongles

[@ebnyflyer]

GigBar move: Great for Small to medium size venue, 100 guest or less. Easy to set up with practice. Works well with SS or IR remote. Sound switch give you lots of control, but you need to learn SS to get the best show. In concert with the wash FXs winning combination (all wireless Donner).

[@jpwpro]

Thanks for the tip! I will look into thank!

[@djmannyleon9204]

First off, I don't understand DJs that charge thousands for weddings and still bring a GigBar running in Sound mode. That's unacceptable! Clients expect top quality lighting, sound, and overall service when they spend that much. I understand making setup/teardown labor lighter and quicker. But at least make the effort to meet or exceed the client and guests expectations. But that doesn't mean I don't like the Gigbar, they're just perfect for backyard parties and rentals. Just a word

[@jpwpro]

Thanks for your comment. In my opinion couples are paying "thousands" of dollars for a professional Wedding DJ/MC that knows how to keep the evening going, sound great on the Mic, pack the dance floor with a clean setup and great sounding system. Lighting is lighting to most couples (in my experience) unless they are looking for specific moving heads/DMX for intros (I've had that requested before) or special effects like cold sparx. The point of my video is that after doing Gig logs and seeing what the guests see on the dance floor I'd much rather using wash lights than a Gig bar. It had nothing to do with clients reviews saying our DJs lighting looked cheap or should only be used for back yard parties because after 100's and 100's of weddings that has never happened. FYI We've DJ'd Weddings in the Chicagoland market for 25+ years and some couples are very picky about things but in regards to types of lighting it's never been an issue.

[@David-sg4se]

It's called "SHRINKFLATION", look it up. It's happening everywhere with a lot of companies and restaurants, even in your own local grocery store! Its where you pay more for less! It's sad that I see it happening more and more in the DJ business where DJ's want to get paid a lot more and provide less.

[@julzcez6669]

🤣😂🤣😂 and yet.... they make money and stay in business. In the end, no one cares for the lights. All they remember is if the music was good or trash. What's the point of a good light show if the music is wack.

[@hollywoodthedj1673]

@@julzcez6669 .. I agree lights is just the icing on the cake and to me less is more all you need is a little something to make the room look good don’t have to go in there with a million lights simplicity is key in my opinion but to each’s own!

[@AOAvina]

I just started off and at I noticed that on my first gigs it was a bit dark but I couldn’t afford new lighting, I found a Starbar wash at my local music store for $30 off retail and I snatched it and man what can I say! I have four Chinese moving heads and that wash and it makes a good show with the ADJ MY DMX GO

[@kellyaustin7487]

Agreed 💯 percent 👍🏾

[@stevekorte6135]

Yes = I already made the change to wash = about 3 months ago. = thanks for the advice........

[@djtoroserrano1771]

You should try the Jmaz a ultra flex I have both gig bar and flex. I use my gig bar for grad parties and back yard parties

[@jpwpro]

I'll have to look into that. Do you have a link?

[@dancarthen3634]

I have a versa bar with two Quad 19 pars added for a wash effect. it's amazing!

[@djsegura9657]

I use 1 sometimes 2 gig bar moves, never had a problem with lights in the eyes. If you think about, not matter what lighting effects you use, someone will have the lights in their eyes..

[@sejvl0403]

in my opinion my gig bar move is amazing, i use the fog machine and is so much fun..

[@jpwpro]

I respect your opinion but in my opinion it seems kind of like Party City-ish. Not professional.

[@001class]

I sold mine yesterday… It’s like the cheapest lights from the 80’s…

[@jpwpro]

Party City lights! LOL

[@VinnyHebert]

You could also set your lights so they are not pointing at people's eyes....

[@sticksentertainment]

I have never used a gigbar at a wedding. I do, however, use them when I DJ the clubs.

[@jpwpro]

What do you use for Weddings?

[@TeeBizz]

I only use uplights at weddings.... Moving heads and Hex pars at pool parties and events like that.....

[@MrCalebgrayson]

i use 2 GBM’s and 20 h1 uploghts with a Z350 fazer. that combo is super portable and solves the problem in the first video. i also use SS because auto is boring.

[@djstevieo]

Have you tried the gigbar move +ils?

[@jpwpro]

No I have not. I will look into that. Thanks!

[@Cba87]

They wash light still look like getting hit by a truck from guest view

[@jpwpro]

Yes they are bright, that’s why I bounce them off the ceiling at the venue. I don’t shine them directly on the people. Works great!

[@atrain421]

both agree and disagree. If you properly aim the derby and laser effects of the gigbar, the beams in the eyes aren't a big deal (aimed down directly at dance floor and not straight out into crowd). Also, controlling the gig bar via DMX helps, instead of running in auto our sound active. also, washes are great, love em. However, sometimes I do feel like you need some sort of mover of effect to break up the room and create excitement.

[@jpwpro]

Good points, my main reason for choosing the wash fx over the gig bar is the overall look and feel on the dancefloor I think the wash fx bounced off the ceiling creates an awesome atmosphere vs the gig bar.

[@djsiuk]

The light bar requires a haze machine. Most venues dance floors don’t have the correct heads for smoke/haze machines. The heads are easy and cheap to install but most venues don’t like smoke.

[@FallenStarFeatures]

The Gig Bar's specs don't lie. It's mostly just an assortment of 10-watt eye candy.

[@TheDjelements]

I removed my laser and derby dot lights from my gig bar looks much more professional and they have washlights in the gigbar . The wash lights are nice but way too flooding and bright.

[@jpwpro]

I actually bounce my wash lights off the venue ceiling and it's perfect.

[@Djdannyb305]

Yea but the wash effect is extremely bright and it blinds ppl too.

[@christianramos9803]

I sell my to gigbar move. And now using 2-4 adj focus spot 4z. And now i buy a duo of adj stinger 2. For sweet sixteen

[@jpwpro]

Interesting, do you have any pics or videos of that setup?

[@christianramos9803]

@@jpwpro yes. Where I send you!

[@joetrudellmajesticrhythms7269]

Ya know i told chauvet Why don't they offer hazy clear covers as an option.. ? i have 2 laluz battery 12" multi color, and what i did was cover the from with Cling food wrap and the light Flooded 3 x's the area.. They are so set on spot lights and never see floods.. also if you are Dj'ing why not put your gigbra's on the sides of the room instead on next to the dj booth.. They are cool lights, just shouldn't be you only lights. the more room the gigbars have to spread the more wash you get

[@jpwpro]

Hey Joe, I like your ideas! Do you have any pics/vids of this light setup?

[@joetrudellmajesticrhythms7269]

@@jpwpro If you watch my video of New England's got Talent you can see the effect on my drums, i had one on each side about 5 feet from the drums with the cling wrap, but i'll try and make a quick video later at night

[@Tdoe]

Can I buy your Gigbar move tripod! Mines was stolen :( just the tripod

[@jpwpro]

Sorry one of my other DJs is now using it.

[@DjGCue71]

Gig bars are wack!!!! I been using the Chauvet wash Fx since the came out. I still have them. They are so bright (just don’t point them to the crowd) point them up to the ceiling and you get a nice bright was. There’s nothing more sad and embarrassing to see that a dj posting a video all dark just with color dots and people on the dance floor. Right now im looking to get the was fx hex.

[@jpwpro]

I agree!! I just added 4 Ape labs sticks XL (newest models) to this setup and I love it!! Gotta video demo coming soon about this! Stay turned and thanks for watching!

[@mghattendorf]

I'll save you your time, he quit using it because the gig bar move sucks. Lol. Get a couple of 4 bar or Wash FX and some mini movers.

[@akinef7993]

Why not use both at the same time lol

[@jpwpro]

I prefer a clean simple setup, two many stands plus photographers and videographers always put their lights by my setup. Gets too cluttered.

[@illustrationmaking]

Hey man: GodsDjs - cool :D

[@dj_lord_tucker]

Eh. I've used the wash hex, the movement of the gigbar sets a better tone. Especially if you're smart with the controller or actually program a show with it.

[@BkDjCrush]

You have to dmx it dude

[@jpwpro]

I like to keep things simple. However one of my other DJs started using Soundswitch and after talking to him about it I ordered one too. Sounds like it's a set it and forget it type deal that gives you customized DMX style lighting for each song. I will be posting a DEMO once I set it up.

[@djlalokc7698]

Those were never met to be main lights you got no w to use those

[@jpwpro]

I use all Ape Labs lighting now, gives a great wash effect and simple setup.

[@spencersalzberg7213]

I hate the look of the gigbar anyways. Think it looks so tacky and it's ugly in photos

[@matttaylor1350]

2 wash lights for a setup is embarassing. As well as the gigbar

[@jpwpro]

Thanks for your input however I think it looks awesome. I also added 4 Ape Lab XL sticks on my Bose speakers. Very cool from the dance floor perspective.

[@DJSolstice]

Gotta learn how to properly use apostrophes my man!!!

[@DJSolstice]

Otherwise solid content

[@jpwpro]

Lol thanks! Grammars not my specialty.

[@oldschooldjernie]

I'll give you $75 bucks for it

[@brandonmedinadjdan]

Your still blinding people with the par lights

[@310socal]

worst light system ever the gig bar

[@vjyoukai]

The New CHAUVET DJ GigBAR Move + ILS Is a Great Upgrade Tho

[@vjyoukai]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWWYiGmdiMlqZtU

[@scratchgonzo]

You got one?

[@vjyoukai]

@@scratchgonzo Nope Not Yet. But they Made it ALOT Brighter, Added Purple in the Lasers, Remote is more Responsive.. those Alone is a BIG PLUS For me to Get One. :)

[@scratchgonzo]

@@vjyoukai please let us know what it's like when you do