MADRIX is a leading German-made LED control tool that produces stunning light shows using a normal computer. It has been the go-to LED controller since 2005, offering flexibility and control for 2D and 3D LED applications with crisp visuals and real 3D matrix support.
Interested in alternatives to MADRIX? Explore MadMapper, Resolume, HeavyM, QLab, TouchDesigner, Watchout, ProPresenter, ArKaos, Disguise, Millumin, VDMX, After Effects, and PVP.
MadMapper
A leader in the field of projection mapping, MadMapper provides a myriad of functionalities to create powerful visual effects. Employed across varying venues from theaters to theme parks, MadMapper boasts high-resolution video capability, real-time control features and compatibility with multiple projectors. Its compatibility extends beyond physical hardware to integration with real-time graphic applications, thereby pushing the boundaries of interactive media.
MadMapper Features
High-Resolution Video: Supports up to 16K video for crisp and impactful display
Malleability: Exceptional for mapping on irregular shapes, thanks to its 3D calibration and space scanner
Real-Time Control: Offers real-time LED arrays and DMX fixtures control for seamless production process
Community Building: Facilitates image sharing with the wider community via its built-in material editor for generative images
Integrated Cue System:
Features an in-built system for triggering shows
DMX ArtNet 4:
Offers DMX output at up to 1000fps for seamless video output
Support for Numerous Formats:
Accepts a variety of video formats including MP4, H264, H265
MadMapper Downsides
Complex for Beginners: The software’s comprehensive features may pose a challenge for beginners
Shape Restrictions: Although highly adaptable, there might be constraints with certain shapes
Limited Control: In comparison to competitors, has slight limitations in control over surface aspects
MadMapper Pricing
A commercial license for MadMapper starts at $399. Discounts can be availed by students or owners of a Modul8 license. Additional hardware companion MiniMad is available at a cost of $180 but requires a MadMapper license.
MadMapper Use Cases
Large Scale Events
Its powerful capabilities make it ideal for large scale events like festivals, where impactful visual effects are paramount.
Theaters
With its real-time control and compatibility with complex shapes, it can be leveraged in places like theaters for precise and dynamic displays.
Interactive Art Projects
Art projects requiring enriched user experience can utilize MadMapper’s community image sharing and real-time graphic applications integration.
Resolume
A multi-faceted, interactive media brands, Resolume thrives in the arena of audiovisual live performances. With roots tracing back to Tasman Ridcharson’s “Jawa Manifesto,” Resolume innovates in video music through seamless combination of DJing, VJing, music production, and sound designing.
Resolume Top Features
– Pioneers in video music and audio visual live events – Facilitates Remixing: Just like electronic music remixing with samples – ARENA 7: for unparalleled projection mapping and edge blending on any surface – Compatible with 3rd party plugins and other applications via Syphon (Mac) and Spout (Windows) – Capable of controlling via MIDI controller, iPhone OSC, or DMX capable lighting desk – Native support for video source input and output: Blackmagic, AJA, Datapath capture cards
Features
Details
Resolume ARENA 7
Projection mapping on any surface and supports edge blending for seamless projection
3rd Party Plugins
Visual effects in Resolume are extendable via compatible plugins
Integration
Seamless with other apps via Syphon or Spout on Mac and Windows respectively
Resolume Downsides
– Limited by copyright laws which often restrict remix creations – Complex interface might require a learning curve for beginners
Resolume Use Cases
Use Case 1: AV Performances
Being one of the pioneer tools in video music and audiovisual live scenes, Resolume is ideal for professionals engaged in AV performances.
Use Case 2: Projection Mapping
With ARENA 7, Resolume facilitates projection on any surface making it a perfect solution for projection mapping.
Use Case 3: VJing and DJing
The built-in abilities to sample, cut, and paste elements from original materials offers a new context for VJing and DJing performances.
VDMX by VIDVOX
An advanced toolset for visual artists, VDMX is a top-notch NY-based tech firm focused on visual arts. An interactive media powerhouse integrating performances with visual effects for an immersive user experience.
VDMX Top Features
Built-in audio reactivity enhancing performance with sound-to-light and sound-to-movement transitions.
Multiple-layer rendering, supporting user control through tablets, iOS devices and other local apps.
Robust support for Quartz Composer, Vuo, GLSL programming languages.
Scalable Design:
Accommodates growth without sacrificing performance.
Wireless Control:
Offers convenience with wireless iPad, MIDI controller command for visual effects.
High-quality connections:
Guarantees high resolution via HDMI, HD-SDI connectivity with Blackmagic Design hardware.
VDMX Downsides
Limited system compatibility, only Intel-based Mac with Mac OS X 10.13 minimum.
With its integrated performances support, VDMX optimizes deliverables in live music, concerts, ensuring a seamless interaction between audio and visual effects.
Use case 2: Digital Painting
Capitalizing on Quartz Composer, VDMX offers a remarkable platform for artists to realize their creative potentials in digital painting.
Use case 3: Generative Performances
VDMX accommodates the abstract, landing a robust toolset for generative performance artists to enhance viewer engagement.
After Effects
In the epic expanse of the digital design universe, one constantly glowing star is Adobe After Effects. Envisioned by the virtuosos at the Company of Science and Art, it rose to prominence in 1993 and was soon enfolded into Adobe’s pantheon of creative tools. This industry standard for motion graphics is revered for its utility across realms – be it film, television, web, or video.
After Effects Top Features
Visual effects and motion graphics creation: From animating logos and characters to text and graphics, After Effects weaves magic. Be it the crafting of rain or fire effects, or artful object removal from clips, it can accomplish it all.
Integration with Adobe products: Seamless interoperability with the Adobe universe – Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro to name just a few, amplifying creative possibilities.
Navigation and design in a 3D space: Artists can explore and deploy imaginative constructs in a 3D realm, elevating visual storytelling.
Third-party integrations: Extendible through plug-ins, scripts, and extensions, for advanced particle systems, physics engines, 3D effects, and automation of tasks.
Feature
Description
Collaboration Tools
Aids shared creative efforts with tools for joint endeavours.
Text Overlay
Enriches visual narratives by overlaying dynamic text.
3D Modeling
Undertakes 3D sculpting within After Effects framework.
After Effects Limitations
Creating 3D environments and models can pose challenges.
The realm of video editing stays largely undiscovered.
After Effects Pricing
Pricing commences at $20.99/month for individuals, and for team creativity, it’s accessible at $35.99/month per license. The Creative Cloud All Apps plan, priced at $54.99/month for individuals, $19.99/month for students and teachers, and $84.99/month per license for teams, grants access to After Effects along with other Adobe masterpieces.
After Effects Use Cases
Use case 1
For post-production artists, After Effects becomes an indispensable ally, thanks to its powerful editing tools and compelling layer stacking feature, enabling creation of cabalistic motion graphics or visual effects.
Use case 2
In the hands of UI/UX designers, After Effects morphs into a conjuring tool, creating tantalizing mock-up animations that arrest attention.
Use case 3
For content creators, After Effects can light up social media platforms with its special effects, smoky trails, and image transformations, amplifying their visual brand narrative.
PVP
The PVP system, stands as a beacon of innovation in the field of multi-screen media servers. Functioning exclusively on a Mac ecosystem, it brands itself as a top-tier solution for multi-screen playback and video effects in live events and fixed installations.
PVP Top Features
Adaptable User Interface: PVP dynamically adjusts and adapts to your needs, making it more intuitive and user-friendly.
Multi-screen, Multi-layer Video Playback: PVP3 connects to multiple displays, offering a seamless blend of graphics-direct, broadcast and network-based outputs.
Transparency and Blend Modes: Enjoy the flexibility of layer blending with PVP3, spinning creativity into real-time video effects.
Mask Editor: Craft numerous shapes with feathered edges or imported images, offering a custom level of control.
Feature
Benefit
Multi-channel audio control
Enables monitoring and soloing each channel to ensure optimal audio output.
PVP 3.2 Centralized Playback
Simplifies live production operations by consolidating playback functions.
Discovery, Define, Design, Deliver stages
Follows four stages for constructing digital solutions, offering a streamlined workflow.
PVP Downsides
License limited to a single Mac at a time.
PVP1 licenses are not eligible for upgrade.
Licenses need to be manually moved to different systems.
PVP Pricing
The pricing for a new PVP license is $999. Rentals are also available, at $199 for 2-weeks and $399 for 1 month. Upgrades for PVP2 licenses are available, with discount rates varying based on purchase date.
PVP Use Cases
Live Events
PVP excels at livening up events with multi-screen playback and real-time video effects. Its ability to manage multiple audio channels ensures a superior sonic experience.
Fixed Installations
For fixed installations, PVP’s robust feature set, including a user-friendly interface and flexible blend modes, facilitates seamless operation.
Digital Solution Construction
With PVP’s structured stages of Discovery, Define, Design, and Deliver, it acts as a powerful tool for building and implementing digital solutions.
HeavyM
Your go-to solution for user-friendly projection mapping software, HeavyM. Developed meticulously with 2 years of dedication, it stands apart with an advanced graphics engine powering its new version.
HeavyM Top Features
Interface design enhanced with powerful graphic engine
Advanced drawing tools with curves
Introduction of new visual effects and media management
Bézier curves feature enhanced
New sequencer mode for creative freedom in drawings
Ability of projection mapping on any surface
Compatibility with all projector models
New effects generator
Automates parameters’ control
New media manager
Eases user workflow
Built-in sound analysis
Syncs visual effects with live music
HeavyM Downsides
While there’s a lot to love, there are aspects that might be seen as downsides. Some may find the wealth of features and functionality slightly overwhelming, requiring a learning curve to fully master the software. Additionally, users might be discouraged with the absence of offered pricing plans on the website and lack of a free or open-source version of the software.
HeavyM Use Cases
Use Case 1: Projection Mapping Artist
With its easy-to-use suite of tools and advanced proficiency in projection mapping techniques, HeavyM is an excellent choice for artists who regularly work with projection mapping.
Use Case 2: Freelance Visual Designer
HeavyM’s intuitive drawing tools and extensive effects library make it ideal for freelance visual designers, who can leverage its features for versatile project requirements.
Use Case 3: Interactive Experience Designer
For interactive experience designers, the Ableton Link for syncing HeavyM and music software, along with a powerful graphics engine, prove why HeavyM stands as a top choice.
QLab
QLab, a renowned industry solution for sound, video, light, and show control cues, has been a keystone for theatre/live entertainment since 2007. Developed by Figure 53, this platform is recognized for its design flexibility and remote collaboration capabilities.
QLab Top Features
Centralized platform offering comprehensive features with demo mode.
Supports creating and playback of audio cues for live events.
Offers video design, run projections with up to 1,000 video layers, chained video effects, per-cue blend modes.
Flexible lighting control – supports DMX universes via Art-Net, USB.
Workspace collaboration via remote connection.
Support for OSC, MIDI, timecode protocols for show control with bidirectional MIDI integration.
Cue-based, multimedia playback software package for macOS.
Audio playback: sequential order arrangement of audio files, amplitude modulation, looping, fades, group cues.
Feature
Description
Video playback
Allows time alignment with other cues, real-time alterations, selection of video card playbacks
MIDI integration
Supports bi-directional MIDI signals to trigger other devices or QLab cues
QLab Downsides
Limited to macOS, lacks cross-platform support.
Relatively steep learning curve for beginners.
Complex features that may require professional training.
QLab Pricing
QLab offers features per license breakdown with free features available as well. However, for comprehensive features, a paid license would be advisable.
QLab Use Cases
Use case 1: Theatre/ Live Event Production
With its range of powerful features like remote collaboration, projection mapping, and cue-based control, QLab is absolutely vital for theatre/ live event production.
Use case 2: Sound Design
Audio playback features, support for Dante, AVB, NDI, mixing tool, audio effects chains make QLab desirable for sound designers across the globe.
Use case 3: Lighting Designers
Flexible lighting control and support for hundreds of lighting instrument definitions makes QLab a prefered choice for lighting designers.
TouchDesigner
Developed by Derivative, TouchDesigner is a node-based visual programming language used for creating real-time interactive multimedia content. It’s a preferred tool of artists, programmers, coders, designers, and performers for creating stunning performances, installations, and media.
TouchDesigner Top Features
Real-time 2D and 3D production: TouchDesigner covers various areas like rendering, compositing, workflow, architecture, video and audio in and out.
Flexible operators: The program categorizes operators into Components, Texture, Channel, Surface, Materials, and Data for a variety of functions.
Device and software interoperability: It interacts harmoniously with a range of devices and other software.
Multi-display support: TouchDesigner enables effective handling of output across multiple displays.
Video mapping and animation: The software supports advanced visual effects such as video mapping, animation and control channels.
Feature
Benefit
Custom Control Panels and Application Building
Allows creation of intuitive user interfaces and applications
3D Engine and Tools
Powerful tools for 3D geometry generation and procedural geometry
Capture and Interaction Tools
Capability to capture images from various inputs like scanner, webcam, and more.
TouchDesigner Limitations
Complexity: With its myriad of features, TouchDesigner may be overwhelming to new users. It has a steep learning curve that may deter beginners.
Limited compatibility: The software is compatible only with Windows and MacOS, limiting its reach.
Dependency on operators: The software’s functionality highly relies on operators, which might lead to complexity for some users.
TouchDesigner Use Cases
Use case 1: Interactive Installations
TouchDesigner is used to create immersive experiences and interactive installations. Its myriad of features make it the right tool for artists and designers who want to create impactful installations.
Use case 2: Lighting/Live Shows
Performers utilize TouchDesigner for creating performance tools for lighting/live shows. It can handle real-time changes, making it perfect for live performances.
Use case 3: Generative Visuals
Artists and programmers can use TouchDesigner to create generative visuals. The tool’s power and flexibility allow for countless possibilities in this sphere.
Watchout
Released by Dataton, Watchout (WO) is a multi-display system software known for its unique features and user-friendly interface.
Watchout Top Features
Compositions: Modeled after the After Effects’ comp, compositions function as a media element, an interconnected collection of animated elements, saving time and reducing potential errors.
Alternative Timelines: The alternative timelines feature in WO 4 allows for seamless transition without sudden screen cuts. Furthermore, it enables the construction of pre-done animations that can be employed over the main timeline, empowering users with heightened control.
Export Movies: This innovative feature aids in saving pre-production time, streamlining client reviews and content archiving.
Integrated External Control: This empowers synchronization with light, serial ports, TCP/IP, and DMX, enhancing user experience.
Order
Feature
1
Timelines compositing order now mirrors other layer-based compositors ensuring compatibility and user-friendliness.
Grouping cues, enabling simplified show flow transitions.
Watchout Disadvantages
Poor integration with certain interactive media platforms might be a roadblock.
First-time users might find the numerous high-end features overwhelming.
Cost, while not explicitly mentioned in the summary, could be a potential downside if compared with other freemium AR tools.
Watchout Use Cases
Use case 1
Large-scale Events:With its ability to create alternative timelines and produce complex animations, Watchout can play a major role in choreographing presentations at large-scale events, exhibitions and concerts.
Use case 2
Arcades and Game studios:Due to its compositions feature and external control integration, it is capable of improving the gaming experience, making it a perfect choice for arcades and game studios.
Use case 3
Education:Enabling creation of interactive and engaging visual content, Watchout can serve as an effective learning tool in educational institutions.
ProPresenter
First on the list is ProPresenter, a wizard of live production and presentation software that takes the limelight for robust features and it’s popularity within the sacred circles of church tech teams. Developed by the techno-magicians at Renewed Vision, this software got a major facelife with ProPresenter 7 (Pro7), now donning a content-focused interface with a sleek dark mode.
ProPresenter Top Features
Multi-scripture capability: With ProPresenter, your sermon gets bolder as it allows the display of multiple scripture translations simultaneously.
Enhanced multi-screen support: Get ready to juggle multiple screens with panache as Pro7 comes with a built-in configuration. Talk about screen shuffling!
Increased stage display options: With this software, the stage is yours as it provides more flexibility in stage display options.
Subscription-based Media library: The built-in ProContent includes 50,000+ media assets, ProPresenter themes, and social media templates. Now that’s a treasure trove!
Operating system compatibility
Windows 10, macOS 10.14.6 or newer
Mobile integration
iOS/Android remote for anywhere control
Usage assistance
Free video tutorials
ProPresenter Limitations
Limited to registration on one computer at a time, you can move licenses only by deactivating and reactivating it as per need.
Although it offers Syphon support, it’s for content sharing on the same computer only.
ProPresenter Pricing
If you’re mulling over whether ProPresenter fits the bill, you’re in for a treat. It comes in various price points, starting as low as $0 for a Free version, all the way up to $999 for a Church Campus License.
ProPresenter Use Cases
Use case 1: Houses of Worship
Divine intervention for church tech teams! With features like simultaneous scripture display and a robust media library, ProPresenter is a godsend for Houses of Worship looking for high-quality live productions.
Use case 2: Business/School
Whether it’s the office or the classroom, ProPresenter allows for seamless integration of slides with various media for unparalleled presentations. It’s like a PowerPoint pumped up on protein shake.
Use case 3: Rental
No worries if you can’t commit. ProPresenter comes with rental options, essentially making it the ‘Netflix’ of live presentation software. Now that’s binge-watching, presenter style!
ArKaos
An innovation in real-time media playback, Belgium-based ArKaos offers VJ software solutions for live performers and video artists. A tool for creating vibrant, interactive media experiences, ArKaos bridges the gap between technology and live performance.
ArKaos Top Features
Ableton Link synchronization technology aligns beats and tempos across multiple software.
ShowKontrol integration provides real-time track data from the DJ booth to VJs and technicians.
MediaMaster Pro 6 includes 48 layers, MediaHub for network sharing, and multiple control support.
ArKaos’ SAGA codec accommodates all common media formats.
Seamless media library with 255 folder and visual capacity.
Alignment with Non-Planar Screens
ArKaos allows synchronizing real-time content over non-planar or curved screens, promising a standout video experience.
Hardware and Software Compatibility
Capable of transforming a computer into a professional media server, ArKaos is compatible with multiple platforms and setups.
Flexible Pricing
Starting at €99.60 per month with a free trial option, ArKaos offers accessible solutions irrespective of budget.
ArKaos Limitations
Potential limitations in terms of Windows 10 64-bit and MacOS 10.15 or 11 compatibility, with M1 currently not supported.
Lack of clear, detailed pricing options can create confusion.
Reliance on third-party payment processors, although payment information isn’t stored.
ArKaos Pricing
ArKaos offers a flexible pricing structure that begins at €99.60 per month, enabling users to select a plan that best fits their budget. A free trial is also available, giving you the chance to explore the software before committing.
ArKaos Use Cases
Use case 1 – DJs and VJs
ArKaos provides an integrative platform for DJs and VJs to enhance live performances. From MIDI support to real-time track data from the DJ booth, ArKaos creates a synergistic space for music and visual art to blend.
Use Case 2 – Singers, Church Performances, Corporate Presentations
With its Lyric Player, ArKaos can seamlessly accommodate singers, church performances, and corporate presentations, aligning text and visuals flawlessly.
Use Case 3 – Video Artists
For video artists, ArKaos offers 48 independent video layers, over 60 effects, and 50+ text animations, enabling a wide range of creative outputs.
Disguise
Founded in 2000, Disguise is a platform geared towards creatives and technologists for the production of commanding visual experiences. With a global footprint spanning over 50 countries, this solution is prominently utilized in a wide range of applications, from live event production and esports through to corporate and entertainment events.
Disguise Top Features
Experience Production Software: Offers real-time editing, advancements in VR/AR/MR and support for HDR and 10 bit workflows.
Vx 4 Server: Built for performance tasks in live production events, capable of 4K60 playback at 4:4:4 with 10-bit RGB color depth.
Absolute Camera and Look-Up Table (LUT): Promotes enhanced visuals.
Global Support: Ranging from in-house and online training to hardware repair and replacements.
Unreal Engine 5 and Renderstream Plugin: Facilitates next-generation visuals and seamless integration into the Disguise workflow.
Area
Details
Software Releases
Latest releases, R15+ and R21, offer improved functionality, new features and a realistic impression of final outputs.
Collaboration
Technological advancements and improvements developed in collaboration with users, customers, and partners.
xR Display
Disguise’s xR can be utilized for project presentations, providing a rich interactive experience.
Disguise Limitations
Given the information, potential limitations or downsides are not explicitly identified.
Disguise Use Cases
Live Events and Concerts
Disguise is ideal for the real-time requirements of live events and concerts, including renowned global tours like the Hans Zimmer’s 2022 European Tour.
Theatre Productions
The platform holds significant value in theatrical settings, evidenced by its use in various UK theatre shows.
Virtual Productions
xR Studios leverages Disguise for virtual productions due to its advanced VR/AR/MR capabilities and impressive visual output.
Millumin
In the illustrious arena of advanced visual creation, exists the undeniable prowess of Millumin. A mesmerizing blend of innovation and accessibility, it is a software deftly developed for sophisticated mapping and data tracking.
Millumin Key Features
Envisioned for uncompromised flexibility with features such as soft-edge matrix, warping, and masks applied directly on canvas.
Bespeaks technical mastery with its MIDI, OSC, DMX signals control, offering precision at your fingertips.
Millumin, the supreme manipulator of Blackmagic ATEM switcher and PTZ protocol via NDI, enabling astute camera adjustments.
Advanced Layout
Manages complex setups and blends videoprojector outputs.
Timecode Synchronization
Adjusts channels of audio file and routes to output.
Despite its extensive capabilities, it is worth noting that the skeleton-tracker and person-detector features are exclusively for Apple M1-only users. Hence, non-M1 users might find themselves at a disadvantage.
However, true to its promise of excellence, Millumin consistently works to ensure compatibility with varied systems.
Millumin Pricing
Millumin’s brilliance comes at an informed choice of price. Offering licenses for lifetime use, or short-term rentals spanning 7 days, 30 days, or 1 year. Providing flexible options to cater to diverse requirements.
Millumin Use Cases
Projection Mapping
Millumin stands as an ideal candidate for projection mapping due to its ability to remap multiple canvases to a specific output or split canvas into outputs.
Camera Adjustments
Astro-photographers and remote camera operators, Millumin’s control over Blackmagic ATEM switcher and PTZ protocol via NDI provides unparalleled command over camera adjustments.
Live Events
With its sequencer feature triggering states and transitions for lights, videos, LEDs and more, Millumin is an exceptional tool for creating immersive experiences at live events.
Hannah Stewart
Content writer @ Aircada, tech enthusiast, metaverse explorer, and coffee addict. Weaving stories in digital realms.
