**Hey y'all,**

I’m working on an interactive light installation called “The Sky Is Calling.” It’s a 20’ triangular bamboo structure with 5 suspended glowing halos that respond to ambient sound and music. It’s a temporary build only up for four days, but it will be outdoors Central Texas late April.

I was inspired by an incredible installation at "Art Club" in Houston and want to replicate that smooth, neon-like motion.

**The Current Build & Logistics:**

 \* Structure: 5 hoops made of lightweight 1/2" PEX tubing Home Depot plumbing section.

 \* Diffusion: LEDs are mounted on the inner perimeter and wrapped with white woven nylon cord (see link below).

 \* Total Length: \~45 linear feet of LED strip across 5 hoops (2x2’, 2x3’, 1x5’).

 \* Power: NinjaBatt Portable Power Station (see link below) using the 12V cigarette lighter port via a 16AWG cable (see link below).

 \* Distribution: I’m planning to use a DC barrel-to-octopus splitter to power the hoops (below)

**The Hardware Problem (“chunky monkey”):**

I previously purchased 24V addressable COB strips, but the animation is real blocky. The color graduation is noticeable in roughly 2-inch segments because the IC controls groups of LEDs rather than individuals. I need to move to 12V to get a higher pixel density for smooth, fluid movement. Since this is visible from 10 feet away, I want a seamless "neon" look without hotspots or chunky steps.

**The Goal & Questions:**

 **\* LED Recommendation: Can you suggest a 12V COB Individually Addressable strip (WS2811/SK6812 etc.)? I need the highest resolution possible so the animation flows like liquid.**

 **\* Controller: I need something sound-reactive (ideally with an RF remote/App). Should I run two controllers (splitting the 5 hoops) or one?**

 **\* Sync: If I use two controllers, is there a way to keep them relatively synced for sound-reactivity, or should I just let them "drift"?**

 **\* Connectors: This is a temporary/portable install. What’s the best way to connect the hoops for quick teardown? I’m comfortable soldering but open to reliable snap-connectors.**

I'm aiming for that "fluid neon" look rather than a digital/pixelated look. Any guidance on specific hardware would be massively appreciated!

Thank you!

**Components**

Ninjabatt battery

https://sellout.woot.com/offers/ninjabatt-ninjabatt-portable-power-station-with-28z

Cigarette lighter mail to 12 V barrel tip male 

DC Car Charger Cable - 12-24V... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08LN279CM?ref=ppx\_pop\_mob\_ap\_share

Octopus

https://www.amazon.com/GINTOOYUN-Splitter-Adapter-Extension-Security/dp/B09M81T6D4

I have this controller, but don’t know if I should use it… BTF-LIGHTING WS2812B WS2811 1903 Built-in Mic Music SP601E Bluetooth Controller with Dual Signal Output Ports for LED Module Pixel Strip Light Andriod iOS APP /3 Keys Button/RF Remote Control

Seeking Advice: Sound-Reactive "Halo" Art Installation (12V COB Addressable & Controller)