NovaStar MX20 vs MX40 Pro
The NovaStar MX20 and NovaStar MX40 Pro are both in the COEX Series family. This page compares their specifications side by side so you can choose the right controller for your LED display project.
The MX20 is the more affordable option. The MX40 Pro sits higher in the lineup — typically with more pixel capacity, more input/output ports, or extended professional features.
Side-by-Side Specifications
| Spec | MX20 | MX40 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,667 | $8,868 |
| Status | Active | Active |
| Series | COEX Series | COEX Series |
| Max Pixels | 3.9 million pixels | 9 million pixels |
| Layers | 3 layers | 4 layers |
| Inputs | 2x HDMI 1.3, 1x 3G-SDI | 3x HDMI 2.0, 1x DP 1.2, 1x 12G-SDI |
| Ethernet Outputs | 6x Gigabit | 20x Gigabit |
| Fiber Outputs | 2x 10G Fiber | 4x 10G Fiber |
| Output Ports | 6x Gigabit Ethernet, 2x Fiber | 20x Gigabit Ethernet, 4x Fiber |
| Input Resolutions | HDMI 1.3: 2560×1440@60Hz (max width 2560px, max height 1440px) 3G-SDI: 2048×1080@60Hz (max width 2048px, max height 1080px) | HDMI 2.0: up to 8192×1080@60Hz; DP 1.2: up to 4096×2160@60Hz; 12G-SDI: up to 4096×2160@60Hz; Frame rates: 23.98-480 Hz; Supports 8-bit, 10-bit, and 12-bit color depth |
| Dimensions | 482.6 mm × 49.9 mm × 384.0 mm | 482.6 mm × 94.2 mm × 467.0 mm |
| Net Weight | 4.5 kg | 7.5 kg |
| IP Rating | IP20 | IP20 |
| Power Input | — | 100-240V~, 50/60Hz, Max 95W |
| Applications | Virtual Production, Studios, Broadcasting, E-sports | Virtual Production, xR/VP, Studios, Broadcasting |
| Software | VMP | VMP |
About the NovaStar MX20
The MX20 is NovaStar's entry-level offering in the premium COEX Series (Creativity, Openness, Extensibility, Infinite possibilities), delivering professional-grade performance in a compact, cost-effective package. This all-in-one controller seamlessly integrates video processing and video control into a single unit, eliminating the need for separate devices. Equipped with 2x HDMI 1.3 and 1x 3G-SDI inputs, the MX20 accommodates diverse video sources while maintaining exceptional reliability. With 6x Gigabit Ethernet output ports and 2x 10G optical fiber ports, it handles displays up to 3.9 million pixels (max 3840×2560) across 3 independent processing layers. The MX20 excels in applications requiring precise synchronization through its Genlock support, delivering ultra-low latency (1 frame) and adaptive frame rates from 23.98-480 Hz. Its advanced image processing includes four intelligent scaling modes (custom, pixel-to-pixel, snap to canvas, fill screen), 14-channel color correction, and full-grayscale calibration for uniform brightness. Fully compatible with NovaStar's VMP (Vision Management Platform) software, the MX20 provides intuitive centralized control for studios, broadcasting facilities, corporate events, and professional installations where space efficiency and reliability are paramount.
About the NovaStar MX40 Pro
The NovaStar MX40 Pro is the flagship 4K LED display controller and video processor of the premium COEX Series (Creativity, Openness, Extensibility, Infinite possibilities), representing the pinnacle of LED display control technology for the world's most demanding applications: virtual production stages, xR/VP environments, LED cinema screens, broadcast studios, major E-sports tournaments, and mission-critical large-scale installations. This powerhouse controller introduces revolutionary Image Booster 2.0 technology, delivering unprecedented 22bit+ grayscale precision with 64-fold magnification and 0.002 nits minimum brightness control—enabling cinematic-quality blacks and shadow detail previously impossible in LED. Coupled with Dynamic Booster's intelligent frame-by-frame brightness optimization, the MX40 Pro achieves △E<2 color accuracy while reducing power consumption by 20-40%, and includes advanced SDR-to-HDR emulation for enhanced contrast without overexposure. Input versatility is unmatched: 3x HDMI 2.0 (up to 8192×1080@60Hz, 12-bit color), 1x DisplayPort 1.2 (4K@75Hz), and 1x 12G-SDI (4K@60Hz, 10-bit 4:2:2)—all with loop-through capability and full HDCP 2.2 compliance—making it the perfect hub for high-end production workflows. With a massive 20x Gigabit Ethernet outputs plus 4x 10G SFP+ fiber ports (switchable 20-port or 40-port optical mode), the MX40 Pro commands up to 9 million pixels (max 8192×8192) across 4 independent 4K layers with Z-order priority control. The processor supports adaptive frame rates from 23.98-480 Hz (including decimal rates) with frame multiplication, ensuring perfect synchronization for camera systems via Genlock with loop-through. Sub-1ms latency at the sending card maintains real-time responsiveness without sacrificing loading capacity. Advanced color science includes 3D LUT support (17³/33³/65³ for professional grading), Color Replacement, 14-channel Color Correction, Color Curves, and pixel-level brightness/color calibration. Native HDR10 (SMPTE ST 2084) and HLG (BT.2100) support delivers true high dynamic range, while 3D display capability (with specialized cards) opens new creative possibilities. The MX40 Pro's "no rectangle restriction" calculates capacity based on actual physical pixels—not wasteful rectangular bounds—and supports irregular screen shapes for creative installations. With 128 customizable presets for instant scene switching, SPDIF digital audio output, built-in cascading control, and a 3.5-inch TFT touchscreen, operation is both powerful and intuitive. Fully integrated with NovaStar's VMP (Vision Management Platform) software and featuring xR virtual shooting with shutter fit technology, the MX40 Pro delivers a complete ecosystem for professionals who demand absolute excellence, precision, and reliability in high-profile LED display applications where failure is not an option.
Buy from Olympian LED — Authorized USA NovaStar Distributor
Olympian LED supplies the MX20 and the MX40 Pro from our Florida warehouse, with same-day shipping on stocked items. Call 321-747-3220 to confirm stock, dealer pricing, or technical questions on which controller is right for your LED display.