ArKaos specializes in real-time media playback and mapping for live performers and video artists. They offer VJ software solutions with features like TRACKDJ, TIMECODE, and VISUALS.
For those exploring options beyond ArKaos, alternatives to consider are Resolume, MADRIX, Disguise, Millumin, VDMX, QLab, ProPresenter, Watchout, and PVP.
Resolume
Leading the avant-garde in the domain of live audiovisual performances and remixing, Resolume dynamically combines the boundaries of DJing, VJing, directing, sound designing and music production.
Resolume Best Features
Unparalleled Projection Mapping with ARENA 7: Purpose-built for projection mapping, ARENA 7 is a tool of precision capable of projecting on any geometry, structure or surface.
Edge Blending Technology: ARENA 7 supports seamless projection with multiple projectors for an uninterrupted, consolidated output.
DMX Fixture Synchronization: For added utility in the production environment, ARENA integrates and syncs with DMX fixtures for lights.
Real-time Rendering, Live Composite & Effects: With Resolume, you have the power to adjust the scale and position of clips along with real-time rendering capability.
Copyright-friendly Remixing: Cuts, pastes and recomposes original materials to form a new context, navigating the often restrictive terrains of copyright.
Integration
Control
Works in unison with other apps via Syphon (Mac) or Spout (Windows).
Control possible through a MIDI controller or iPhone via OSC.
Support for a multitude of third-party plugins for added customization.
Natives support for multiple capture cards gives you comprehensive control over your media.
Resolume Limitations
Copyright Constraints: Still dictated by 20th century’s copyright legality, remixing might occasionally hit roadblocks.
Hardware Dependency: Requires a powerful computer with high-end graphic card for smooth performances.
Resolume Pricing
Unfortunately, pricing plans for Resolume are not covered in the company summary. To get information regarding costs, one must visit the official website or contact the company directly.
Resolume Use Cases
Use case 1
For AV Commodifications and DJing: Resolume’s excellent edge blending and projection mapping allows for unforgettable performances.
Use case 2
For Reshaping Cinema: With its potent remixing technology, the software allows film-makers to redefine narratives with no picture-sound synch loss.
Use case 3
For Music & Sound Artists: Resolume’s dynamic, rhythmical video editing opens up new avenues for synchronizing music compositions with visual media.
MADRIX
As if pulled straight from a German tech fairy tale, MADRIX, with its awe-inspiring LED control tool, has been leading the parade since 2005. This doesn’t just paint pretty pictures with LEDs – it lets you orchestrate an entire light show right from your laptop!
Madrix’s Greatest Hits
Waves its magic for two-dimensional, or if you’re feeling ambitious, three-dimensional pixel mapping.
Award-winning, so it can’t just be our sparkling wit you love.
Generative visuals/effects, because who wants just ordinary?
Flexible connections to output your lightful creations: Art-Net I, II, 3, 4; DMX512; Philips Color Kinetics KiNET; Philips Hue; SPI via MADRIX NEBULA; Streaming ACN; DVI.
Input/remote control/audio options that read out like a techie’s PlayStation cheat codes: ASIO, CITP, DMX512, GamePort, MA-Net 1/2, MIDI, Remote HTTP, Time Code, WDM, NewTek NDI, Spout.
Can hold up to 1,048,576 DMX channels. Yes folks, that’s a lot of channels.
Offered Platforms
Digital (sold on Amazon)
MADRIX KEY
USB dongle that activates MADRIX 5 Software/MADRIX RADAR Software. Talk about a key to happiness!
Proven Track Record
In the Musical Instruments category on Amazon. It’s practically a rockstar.
Light(en)ing Strikes: MADRIX’s Quirks
It’s likely going to be a tad overwhelming for the uninitiated. After all, with great power comes a lot of instructions.
Minimum system requirements: 2.0 GHz dual-core-CPU, OpenGL 2.0 graphics card, 2GB RAM, 1GB harddisk space, 1280×768 screen resolution, sound/network card, USB 2.0. It’s a high maintenance, albeit worthwhile, relationship.
MADRIX Use Cases
Use case 1
If you’re running a club and want your lights to thump with the music, MADRIX could become your best friend. Synchronization with Music2Light real-time effects produces a dance-floor domination.
Use case 2
For those trying to set the stage on fire (not literally), MADRIX is your backstage rockstar, adding a touch of vibrancy and depth to your productions!
Use case 3
MADRIX can also serve as your trusty sidekick for creating impressive storefront or exhibition displays, its versatile pixel mapping giving you the freedom to realize your wildest light-laced dreams.
Disguise
Meet Disguise, an impeccable platform custom-built for tech-savvies and creatives to conceive and actualize stunning visual experiences. This platform, a global leader born in 2000, uses high-end experience production software to serve a variety of arenas, including worldwide concert tours, esports, films and more.
Disguise Top Features
Real-time editing: This feature enables you to make alterations on the fly.
Worldwide support, hardware repair, and replacement services: Providing a comprehensive coverage no matter your location.
Vx 4 Server: Specifically designed for live production events, it supports HDR, 10-bit workflows, and elevated visuals.
Absolute Camera and Look-Up Table (LUT): Facilitating refined user experience.
Disguise xR: Ideal for project presentations and boasting advancements in VR/AR/MR.
User Training
In-house and online training support for users.
Partner Network
A tight-knit network of technical and creative talents.
New Unreal Engine 5 plugin
Facilitating next-gen visuals across live and virtual production.
Disguise Limitations
Complex toolset may be overwhelming for beginners.
Lack of transparent pricing information provided.
Disguise Use Cases
Use case 1: Live Events
With its real-time editing capabilities, world-wide support, and top-tier Vx4 server, Disguise makes an outstanding choice for live event coordinators and producers.
Use case 2: Concert Visuals
Originally developed for concert visuals, Disguise offers spectacular visual experiences, making it an ideal pick for event organisers in the music industry.
Use case 3: Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality
Disguise featuring high-end VR/AR/MR advancements and its proprietary xR, enables creators to conceive stunning virtual and augmented reality experiences.
Millumin
An advanced projection and lighting software, Millumin is optimized for the latest technology and packed with innovative features for interactive media design.
Key Features of Millumin
Advanced Mapping and Data Tracking: Intuitive interface for curve outputs and real-time data analysis.
Blackmagic ATEM and PTZ Protocol Control: Adjust camera settings and switch views with ease.
Skeleton Tracker: Unique feature to detect and track individual entities (Apple M1 only).
Videomapping tools: Suitable for complex projection designs on various surfaces.
Real-time Shader Editing: Inline editor that supports ISF shader format for on-the-fly adjustments.
Key Feature
Benefits
3D LUT Effect
In-depth color grading capabilities for perfect visual output.
Timeline Editor
Flexible timing control with keyframes, curves, and segments.
Syphon or NDI Connection
Connects seamlessly with other devices and software.
Millumin Downsides
Could be overwhelming for beginners due to feature-rich environment.
Some advanced features limited to Apple M1/M2 chips.
Does not offer expanded network control beyond MIDI, OSC and DMX.
Millumin Pricing
Millumin offers a flexible pricing model, with options for lifetime use or short-term rentals of 7 days, 30 days, or 1 year. The software provides a generous advantage by offering additional seats at no extra costs and emergency deactivation in case of theft or damage.
Millumin Use Cases
Show Production
Perfect for creating and managing multi-layered, interactive visuals for live show productions.
Gallery Installations
With its videomapping tools and skeleton tracking feature, Millumin is ideal for designing immersive interactive installations.
Event Planning
The software’s advanced lighting controls make it a top choice for managing lights, LEDs, and video transitions at large scale events.
VDMX
Enter the new era of tech performance with VDMX, a creation of VIDVOX. This NY-based firm has tailored an advanced tool for visual artists, focusing on integrating performance apps to give users an unmatched visual experience.
VDMX Top Features
Audio Reactivity: Built-in tool for sound-to-light and sound-to-movement convertion with volume, frequency, and instrument selectivity.
Supports Multiple Programming Languages: From Quartz Composer and Vuo to GLSL, VDMX is compatible with a multitude of programming languages.
Remote Control: Manage your visual effects wireless with either an iPad or a MIDI controller.
Multiple Graphics Card and Layers Support: VDMX is designed to function smoothly with multiple graphics cards and offers multi-layer rendering.
Unique Video Management
Connectivity Options
Video streams can be recorded as QuickTime movie or PNG image.
Syncs with all standard MIDI and OSC controllers; can act as a media server or lighting console.
Individual video layers can be outputted to other apps via Syphon.
Offers various control options including MIDI, OSC, local apps, iOS devices, and tablets.
Supports high-quality connections via Blackmagic Design hardware.
Manages parameters of various plugins including Quartz Composer, CoreImage, and Vuo.
VDMX Limitations
System Requirements: VDMX needs an Intel-based Mac, Mac OS X 10.13 minimum. For optimized performance, Nvidia/ATI Graphics Card and 4+ GB RAM are recommended.
Limited to Mac: This advanced VJ software doesn’t support Windows or Linux platforms.
VDMX Pricing
Currently, no pricing information is disclosed on the company summary.
VDMX Use Cases
Use Case 1: Live Music
With its wide-ranging capabilities, VDMX provides an immersive visual experience, syncing live audio to create a stunning audio-visual treat. Perfect for creating dynamic live music performances.
Use Case 2: Digital Painting
VDMX is an exceptional tool for digital painters, with expansive integrations and features to compose standout pieces. It offers numerous options for media types including movies, ISF, and images.
Use Case 3: Concerts and Performances
With advanced control options and powerful visual effects, VDMX finds extensive use in concerts and other performance arts. Artists can manipulate parameters of multiple plugins for extraordinary results.
QLab
Meet QLab, a globally trusted, industry-standard multimedia playback software developed by Figure 53. It stands as an all-in-one solution for sound, video, and light cues, offering flexibility and a plethora of features for live events, particularly theatre and live entertainment.
QLab Top Features
Unified design platform – QLab allows for remote collaboration, offering a comprehensive toolset for audio, video, and light cue design.
Audio cues – Create and playback audio cues with advanced function like amplitude control, looping, and group cues.
Video design capabilities – Comprehensive support for customizable geometry, projection mapping, chained video effects, and up to 1,000 video layers.
Lighting control – Flexible DMX control via Art-Net or USB, with hundreds of lighting instrument definitions available.
MIDI Integration – Bidirectional MIDI integration supports triggering other devices or QLab cues.
Workspace collaboration – Remote connection allows team members to collaborate seamlessly.
New video engine in QLab 5 utilizing Apple’s new Metal framework for enhanced video processing.
Protocols supported:
OSC, MIDI, timecode protocols for show control.
Cue lock:
Prevents unintentional cue changes with the ability to save and lock show files.
Software Package:
QLab operates as a macOS package, allowing cue-based multimedia playback.
QLab Limitations
Limited to macOS, making it less accessible to users on other platforms.
May present a steep learning curve for first-time users due to its feature-rich interface.
QLab Pricing
The intricate features of QLab are categorized under different licenses. Access to all free features is granted on the demo mode. Pricing remains undisclosed within this summary.
QLab Use Cases
Use case 1 – Live Events
With its robust audio, video, and lighting control mechanisms, QLab proves instrumental in orchestrating live events, particularly in theatre and live entertainment settings.
Use case 2 – Sound Design
Trusted by sound designers globally, QLab provides a resourceful platform for creating, editing, and managing a multitude of sound cues.
Use case 3 – Collaborative Workspaces
With its remote collaboration capabilities, QLab makes team projects hassle-free. Multiple users can work on the same project from different locations, maximizing productivity.
ProPresenter
An industry-leading product of Renewed Vision, ProPresenter is high-caliber live production and presentation software. With a robust hold in church tech teams, this software showcases an impressive range of features making it a perfect choice as an ArKaos alternative.
ProPresenter Best Features
Enhanced ProPresenter 7 version sporting a dark mode and content-focused interface.
Simultaneous display of multiple scripture translations possible.
Improved interface for Window users, ensuring a unified experience on Mac and Windows.
Built-in configuration for dual screens available and enhanced multi-screen support.
ProPresenter 7 comes with a dedicated announcement layer.
Diversified licenses available at different price points.
Considerable flexibility in stage display layout.
Specific Feature
Benefit
Built-in Media Store
Access to WorshipHouse powered content
Integration with macOS
Compatibility with Windows 10
Customizable slides
Integration of text, graphics, videos, and live video
ProPresenter Downsides
Single device registration only, though licenses can be moved by deactivating and reactivating.
Syphon support available only with applications on the same computer.
Does not come preloaded with free modules; all modules must be purchased and installed separately.
ProPresenter Pricing
Pricing for ProPresenter varies, starting from a free version up to $999 for a Church Campus License.
ProPresenter Use Cases
Use case 1: Houses of Worship
With multiple scripture translations and increased text size, ProPresenter helps effortlessly manage service presentations.
Use case 2: Business/School Presentations
This advanced slide editor with tools for text scaling and enhanced guides is invaluable for creating clear, engaging presentations.
Use case 3: Rental for Events
The versatility of ProPresenter coupled with its ability to manage high-quality live productions makes it an ideal choice for event companies renting presentation software.
Watchout
Unveiling Watchout (WO), a multi-display system software by Dataton. Redefining show flow changes, WO brings accelerated performance, energy-efficient designs and eliminates errors, bearing the torch for sustainable digital innovation.
Watchout Top Features
Compositions: Collection of animated elements functioning as a media element.
New feature: Facilitates the construction of free-running animated loops.
Alternative Timelines: Seamless jumps without abrupt screen cuts, powered by WO 4.
Export Movies: Save pre-production time via pre-done animations callable over the main timeline.
Integrated Control: Sync with external devices like light, serial ports, TCP/IP, DMX.
Revised Compositing: Timelines compositing order flipped making WO consistent with other layer-based compositors.
Key Features
Description
Compositions
Animated elements grouped based on show flow, aiding efficiency and reducing errors.
Alternative Timelines
Create overlapping timelines for smooth scene transitions.
Export Features
Expedite the review process and simplify content archiving.
Watchout Disadvantages
Neighborhood features: A high-noise environment may affect user experience.
Minimal amenities: Fewer inbuilt features may limit application appeal.
Community disinterestedness: Poor maintenance may indicate lack of interest in updates and future growth.
Watchout Use Cases
Use case 1
With compositions and alternative timelines, Watchout is an ideal solution for media companies requiring efficient show flow changes and seamless transitions.
Use case 2
Data visualization experts and researchers can greatly benefit from the export features, simplifying the review and archiving process.
Use case 3
Lighting automation or stage design groups could capitalize on the integrated control feature to synchronize visual content with lighting.
PVP
For multi-screen media playback and video effects, PVP or ProVideoPlayer stands out as a potent tool for live events and fixed installations.
PVP Top Features
Immersive multi-screen, multi-layer video playback.
Flexible connectivity to multiple displays, offering direct/broadcast/network-based outputs.
Capable of managing displays independently, catering to a diverse range of display technologies.
State-of-the-art multi-channel audio control, with unique monitoring and soloing of each channel.
Advanced transparency and Blend Modes for impressive video layer blending.
Mask editor for creating complex shapes and imported images with feathered edges.
User Interface scalability to suit unique needs.
PVP 3.2 with enhanced live production operations through centralized playback.
For a new PVP license, you’ll be set back by $999, while a 2-week rental costs $199, and a 1-month rental comes at $399. Upgrades on PVP2 licenses attract discounts based on the purchase date.
PVP Use Cases
Use case 1: Events and Installations
With its sophisticated multi-screen and multi-layer video playback, PVP is indispensable for live events and installations demanding visually stunning presentations.
Use case 2: Content Design
PVP shines in designing content across varying screen sizes, rotations and aspect ratios. Harness its features to cater to unique viewer experiences.
Use case 3: Broadcast and Network Outputs
With PVP, achieve seamless connectivity to multiple display graphics-direct, broadcast or network-based outputs.
Logan Bellbrook
Content writer @ Aircada with a knack for nature & AR/VR/XR. Blogging the intersection of tech & terrain.
