Best Small PC and Console Options

Zero88 FLX

• Considered decent for a local arts center.
• Budget-friendly option with limitations.
• Limited console options within the budget.
• User Quote: "Looking at your budget, only thing which is an option is a Zero88 FLX. The small 1 universe one."

MagicQ PC with Command Wing

• Offers 64 artnet universes for free.
• Provides flexibility with midi control and additional add-ons.
• User Quote: "My go-to is Enttec Dpro... easy to use and great for installs."

MA onPC Wing

• Not the cheapest option but offers excellent control.
• Great for those familiar with professional lighting programming.
• User Quote: "For a cheaper option, I've actually become a fan of the Elation Onyx line."

Chamsys MQ50

• One of the cheapest complete consoles liked by users.
• Offers value for its price.
• User Quote: "Cheapest complete console I've used that I've liked has been the Chamsys MQ50."

Avolites Mobile Wing

• Retails around £3000.
• Offers sixteen universes of artnet.
• Positive feedback from users who switched back to Avolites.
• User Quote: "What goes around comes around. I’ve been extremely happy with my recent move back to Avo."

OS Software Options

• MA 2 onPC: Free software option with the requirement of additional hardware and setup.
• Dot2 from MA Lighting: Known for reliability and user-friendly interface.
• ETCnomad dongle: Suitable for theatre applications.
• Onyx by Obsidian: Provides a good balance of features and price.

Best Speech Synthesizer Software

ChipSpeech by Plogue

• Offers various voice simulations.
• Provides high-quality speech synthesis.
• User Quote: "Your best bet will probably be ChipSpeech by Plogue. It has the original TI style simulations."

Sonic Charge Bitspeek

• Ideal for LPC functionality in DAW.
• Not free but offers quality processing.
• User Quote: "Sonic Charge bitspeek is perfect for this!"

Other Recommendations

• Bitcrusher: Recommended for achieving specific sound effects.
• iZotope's Vocal Synth: Offers a setting for 'Speak N Spell' effects.
• Microsoft Sam Voice: Known for its classic robotic delivery.
• goodhertz Lossy: Software option for unique sound manipulation.

Best Audio Equipment for Home Setup

Speakers vs. Headphones

• Headphones: Offer better sound quality within a budget.
• Speakers: Provide a different listening experience and room-filling sound.
• User Quote: "Cable length will not affect the sound quality. It’s a matter of preference between headphones and speakers."

Recommended Gear

• KEF LS50 Wireless: High-end option for quality sound.
• Clas D Amplifier with DAC: Budget-friendly setup with decent performance.
• Neumi BS5P Speakers: Good choice for digital inputs and Bluetooth.
• AMP and Speaker Combo: Offers flexibility and good sound at a lower cost.
• User Quote: "Consider how you want to use your system to decide between headphones and speakers."

This summary provides insights into budget-friendly small PC and console options, speech synthesizer software, and recommendations for audio equipment for a home setup.