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what to get


wrm

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Okay very new to this and was wondering what to buy. I have been looking at the package deal and then buying the sequences but not sure 16 channels would be enough. Any advise would be greatly apreciated

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Since I couldn't see how I would get all I wanted in 16 channels, I started 4 years ago with 32 channels and the Advanced-License software. This allowed several shrubs, C-9s on the eaves, 5 three-color mini trees, a good-sized three-color dogwood tree and a sleigh/one reindeer combo. Nothing special. Did all my own sequencing - WOW - 15 whole minutes of show. And it was great!

It all depends on what you want to spend right now, and where you think you'll end up. Adding controllers is fairly easy, but may require tweaking older sequences a bit as you add more each year. If you haven't done so, download the software and use it in demo mode to get used to it. Canned "store-bought" sequences are a means many use to get started. Nothing wrong with 'em, I just prefer to "roll my own."

A few thoughts:

- If you're already thinking 16 channels might not be enough, then 16 channels aren't enough. ;)

- You'll never have enough channels for what you want to do.

- You'll discover Xmas is a year-round proposition.

- If you've never thought clearance sales were something you'd get excited about, prepare for a change.

- Before someone else says it, you'll never have enough extension cords. Buy many, but learn to make your own with SPT1 or SPT2 wire and

vampire plugs.

Enjoy the craziness. And once you've started, remember the Forum is your bestest friend.

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I'm new to this to !! I'm based in the UK and I ordered one controller however I realised very quickly that wasn't enough and within a week I had ordered my second so 32 channels, It depends on what you want to do, I'm a big halloween person so wanted singing faces so 32 was really what I needed but it will become a addiction trust me lol

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My first year 48 channels, second year 80 channels. Believe me, don't store the contollers too close to each other or else they multiply while you are dreaming. I would recommend 32 or 48 to start and you will have your hands full. Just remember that lights also tend to multiply with your dreams. You'll also have a great start if you can find a mentor near you who can guide you to seccess. I am fortunate to have Earle Talley as my mentor.

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this is my first year...I ordered a 16 channel one...I soon realized it wasn't enough. I bought two more. I still don't think its enough for the stuff in my head but it will have to do me this year....if I want to stay married....LOL

And I agree with Cray I started in June.... I think there were 2 weeks I didn't think about it...(while I was in Vegas and on a cruise) other than that.... I listen to my Ipod of christmas music. It is a year round thing. I'm not even done with this year and I'm thinking of next year.(cuz I just can't add anymore this year)

I used to be the type of person that said "Christmas lights out already? Its not even Halloween" now I go into Home Depot and say "they out yet? when they going to be out"

sales sales sales...yes! habitat for humanity had a Christmas inJuly sale...bought alot on craigslist, ebay, yard sales. Hobby Lobby has good prices (their stuff is out) and you can get a 40% off coupon on their website... oh yeah...you see stuff and you start planning, plotting...how it will fit into your show.

I also agree with Baron... find a mentor. I haven't "met" anyone from here yet but I have two guys I can contact anytime with questions and the people on here are eager and most willing to share their advice and experience. Some even sequences... I know people sell them... but... I don't know... it isn't about making money... yes it is ALOT of work to sequence them..well not work work...just time... but to me...it's about creating something cool as heck... my opinion... people have shared with me and I picked out of their sequences what worked for me and put it in mine..or I seen how they did it...how the pattern looked... But 16 won't be enuf. Not sure when enuf is enuf.... I guess when the money is gone...LOL

Edited by paralegalnc
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My first year 48 channels, second year 80 channels. Believe me, don't store the contollers too close to each other or else they multiply while you are dreaming. I would recommend 32 or 48 to start and you will have your hands full. Just remember that lights also tend to multiply with your dreams. You'll also have a great start if you can find a mentor near you who can guide you to seccess. I am fortunate to have Earle Talley as my mentor.

I have watched mr Talley's vidio and wow you are lucky to have him
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