Can i use Unison Paradigm with the element 40 console

Question

We are looking at a new lighting system for a church and was wondering what architectural wall panel would pair good with the Element while keeping budget in mind

RickR · Accepted Answer

The short answer is absolutely yes. DMX and sACN (DMX on ethernet) are industry wide standards and anything that uses them (correctly) will work with others. I have designed many church systems and routinely pair them. 
 
The longer version is that there is very little the two have to do with each other. Typically, architectural panels work in parallel with performance consoles. They both tell the fixtures and dimmers what to do, but the untrained find dedicated buttons and sliders easier to use. The janitor shouldn't need to turn on the console! 
 
There are several other possibilities that might be less expensive, but of more limited function. Paradigm is my preferred system because it has a mind boggling range of functions and uses. Unison Echo comes in the same forms as Paradigm. It is very capable and less expensive. Echo Flex is wireless so can be wonderful in retrofits. A simple system of toggle switches and an I/O gateway can work wonders. And of course some systems use a blend. Almost always along side a console. 
 
The real question is whether you've thought through the church needs. As a consultant myself, I naturally encourage you to hire a theatrical consultant. They will have the expertise to help you navigate the many, overlapping questions that will form the next 20 years of your lighting. This stuff gets very technical but must to be driven by the big picture goals of the church. Anyone that doesn't have all that info is bound to make mistakes. A consultants fees truly magnify the rest of the budget and preventing errors, saving you money. Dealers can be very helpful but usually don't have as wide experience or independence from sales. You can start with your local ETC dealer, other churches or contact ETC directly to find the right person.