MadMapper is a robust projection mapping tool tailored for various industries, offering powerful visual effects and real-time control. It supports high-resolution video up to 16K, multiple projectors, and 3D calibration. Despite being feature-rich, its complexity may pose a challenge for beginners.
Looking for alternatives to MadMapper? Alternatives encompass Resolume, TouchDesigner, HeavyM, MADRIX, Millumin, VDMX, Blender, After Effects, QLab, Max MSP, Houdini, Notch, Unity.
Resolume
Presenting Resolume, a trailblazer in the field of AV performances, with a rich history rooted in the conceptualization of ‘Video Musical Remix’. A testament to their inventive spirit, Resolume was conceived at the celebrated VJ Fest Istanbul, heralded by Cédric Chabuel (Ouananiche) as a gamechanger for DJs, VJs, directors, sound designers and music producers.
Resolume Top Features
ARENA 7: Designed specifically for projection mapping. Enables projections on various surfaces including complex geometrical structures and buildings.
DMX fixtures: ARENA 7 is DMX capable, allowing for synchronised light shows and immersive experiences.
Live composite & effects: Ensures real-time rendering, adjustable scale and positioning of clips on the fly.
Integration capabilities: Syphon (for Mac) or Spout (for Windows) allow integration with other apps on the same computer. An iPhone or MIDI controller can also control Resolume outputs.
Capture card support:
Native support for Blackmagic, AJA and Datapath capture cards for video inputs and outputs.
Sample based Remixes:
Technical process likened to that of electronic music using samples, for creating impactful and contextually unique visual narratives.
Music and video editing:
Software combines sound and visual snippets for a comprehensively engaging output.
Resolume Limitations
Copyright can be a constraint in creating remixes, with the 20th century viewed as the century of copyright.
Advanced features and nuanced capabilities might require time to master, less user-friendly for beginners.
Resolume Use Cases
Use case 1
Perfect for VJs and DJs who want to push the boundaries of their performances with the fusion of dynamic visuals and sound.
Use case 2
Unbeatable for creative directors and music producers who are aiming to narrate compelling stories by remixing video and music.
Use case 3
Enriching for projection mappers who desire to transform complex structures and surfaces into a canvas for art.
TouchDesigner
Magnificently crafted by Toronto’s Derivative, TouchDesigner presents itself as a beacon of artistic expression, control, and possibilities in the realm of real-time interactive multimedia content. Its foundational framework, nodding to the robust construct of Houdini 4.1, now smolders with a procedural OpenGL compositing and effects pipeline post the release of its 2008 beta version – TouchDesigner 077.
TouchDesigner Top Features
A versatile confluence of 2D and 3D production spheres with prowess in rendering, compositing, and cultivating a flexible environment for the clashed symphony of seamless workflow and scalable architecture.
Enhanced video and audio interplay with multi-display support and video mapping, elevates its appeal.
Rich mosaic of Operators, catering to the versatile needs of multimedia creation
Components
3D objects, panels, ops
Texture
2D image operations
Channel
Audio, animation, motion, control signals
TouchDesigner Limitations
Steep learning curve for users new to the node-based programming scheme
Lack of native Linux support
TouchDesigner Pricing
The financial saga encapsulates the tremendous evolution of the platform. Being a software with such expansive capabilities, its pricing array is just as varied and comprehensive.
TouchDesigner Use Cases
Use case 1
TouchDesigner is the perfect choreographer for artists, aligning the dance of light during live shows with its interactive installations and performance tools.
Use case 2
For the orchestration of immersive experiences or generative visuals, TouchDesigner, with its particle systems and procedural geometry tools, is a maestro par excellence.
Use case 3
TouchDesigner sings in tuneful harmony with MIDI controllers, rasterizes text, traces, and adds text to a 3D scene, promising a symphony for programmers, coders, and designers.
Houdini
Meet Houdini, a remarkable 3D animation and special effects application that hails from the stable of the 25-year-old Toronto-based SideFX. With applications stretching across industries like film, TV, video games, and virtual reality, Houdini expertly blends tech and artistry.
Houdini’s Best Features
Node-based procedural workflow: Allows multiple iterations to refine and enhance work.
Extensive 3D production tools: Facilitates modeling, rendering, and animation with exceptional quality.
Python-friendly scripting APIs for advanced functionality.
Dynamic simulation tools: Enable creation of hyper-realistic visual effects.
Feature
Benefit
Encapsulation of node networks
Allows creation of shareable custom nodes, fostering collaboration.
Variety of simulation tools
Facilitate effects such as fluid dynamics, destruction FX, and pyro FX, among other.
Houdini’s Limitations
Caters specifically to technical VFX artists; beginners may find the interface challenging.
A somewhat demanding system requirement: 4GB+ memory, 3GB disk space, Intel or AMD x64 CPU with SSE 4.2.
Houdini Pricing
Houdini offers a range of pricing options catering to different users. The Houdini Apprentice version is free for students and hobbyists. For commercial use, a perpetual license for Houdini FX costs $4,495.
Houdini Use Cases
Use case 1 – Film and TV Production
Many big-name studios like Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar, and DreamWorks Animation have embraced Houdini. It’s been instrumental in creating world-class animations like Frozen, Zootopia, and others.
Use case 2 – Video Game Development
Houdini has been integrated into various game development processes since the early 2000s. It’s been used to create immersive worlds populated with vast amounts of engaging content, as seen in games like Killzone 2 and Uncharted.
Use case 3 – VR and Immersive Reality
With robust 3D production tools, Houdini enhances Virtual Reality content, offering users a more immersive experience.
Notch
Meet Notch! The UK-based, real-time VFX powerhouse that creates, simulates, renders and edits all in one unified environment. Popular among global artists, brands and live event creators, this application is a must have in your tech toolbox!
Notch Top Features
Node-based Interface: Logical building block connections that streamline your creation process and open up room for quick changes and edits.
Interactive and Generative Content: Live video effects with intuitive use and multiple use cases. Hello flexible!
Real-time Motion Graphics and VFX: Incorporating AR and VR experiences, built with real-time effects and filters. Talk about turning bytes into beauty!
Compatible with Industry-Standard file formats: Works well with others such as Autodesk Flame3D, Autodesk Smoke, 3ds Max, Nuke, and more. A true team player!
Continuous Modifier feature that grants control over rotations and other attributes.
Notch Downside
Pricing might be a bit steep for individuals or small companies. It’s worth remembering that quality sometimes comes with a price tag.
Notch Pricing
Starting at $136.07/month, Notch offers a free version as well. And for heavier users, professional version is available at $249/month. Nicely customizable to your needs and budget!
Notch Use Cases
Use case 1
If you’re a VJ or designer, Notch can be your best bud! Its real-time VFX capabilities coupled with AR and VR experiences make for an interactive gig like no other.
Use case 2
For all you motion graphic enthusiasts out there, Notch lets you control every parameter for seamless workflow along with real-time motion graphics.
Use case 3
Event creators, lend me your ears. With Notch, making pre-show changes is as easy as pie with media server blocks that don’t require re-rendering. Now that’s what I call smooooth operating!
Unity
Established in 2005, Unity is a robust game development engine, excelling in creating 3D and 2D games, and applications ranging from AR to 3D simulations. Loved for its operating system adaptability and suite of tools.
Unity’s Finest Features
Cross-platform game development: works efficiently on Android, iOS, and multiple operating systems.
Wide-ranging applications: Includes AR and 3D simulations.
Well-equipped with tools, rendering technology, and various features supporting high-quality game creation.
Active developer community: Foster collaboration, problem-solving, and system enhancements.
Popular asset store housing pre-designed textures and features for brainstorming game designs.
Supports multiple coding languages: BOO script, Javascript, and C#.
Unity Use
Advantageous Feature
Game Creation
Equips developers with a suite of tools and features
Brainstorming Game Designs
Rich Asset Store with impelling pre-designed textures and features
Problem Solving
Active developer community
Unity Downsides
New pricing model received backlash, being harmful to solo, indie, mobile developers.
Potential abuse of per-install fees with repeated downloads.
Triggered an open mistrust after announcing retroactive fees.
Developers worry about hampered digital preservation efforts due to high fees.
Evolving unannounced changes resulted in trust issues.
Unity Pricing
Unity presents a new pricing model, collecting a fee per each game install. To be commenced from January 1, 2024, Developers won’t be charged until their game reaches $200,000 in revenue and surpasses 200,000 installations. Games from ‘standard’ markets bear a higher fee than those from ’emerging’ markets including India and China.
Unity Use Cases
Small-scale development
Unity’s free version is a perfect fit for budding developers, facilitating the creation of sophisticated games with multiple features.
Professional development
For pro developers, Unity offers a Pro version integrating rich features that enhances the production of top-tier games.
AR/VR game development
Unity actively promotes the creation of games with AR/VR features, rendering immersive visual experiences.
HeavyM
Meet HeavyM, a user-friendly projection mapping software powered by an advanced graphics engine. Two years of intense development has resulted in a robust platform that fosters creative ideas and simplifies workflow.
HeavyM Top Features
Advanced graphics engine
Interface design, drawing tools with curves, new visual effects, media management, and sequencer
Bézier curves enhancement and elimination of 300 shapes limit
Automated effects generator for parameters’ control
New media manager for streamlined workflow
Simple drawing tools for delineating projection mapping area
Application of effects to MIDI controller
Projection mapping applicable on any surface
Integration of visuals and audio with syphon and Synthesia
Audio Synchronization
Compatibility
Built-in sound analysis aligns visual effects with live music via Ableton Link.
Compatible with all projector models and supports personal media.
Adjustments
Projection Time
Flexible adaptation to events where you perform.
Setup in less than 30 minutes.
HeavyM Limitations
No reference to a free or open source alternative.
Limited to available effects in library.
HeavyM Pricing
Pricing information has not been clearly specified in the company overview.
HeavyM Use Cases
Use case 1: Projection Mapping Artist
With a vast library of effects, personal media support, and easy drawing tools, HeavyM empowers artists to bring their vivid projections to life.
Use case 2: Video Content Creator
HeavyM’s interface design, media management, sequencer and MIDI controller application make it a fitting tool for content creators, facilitating easy creation and management of dynamic visuals.
Use case 3: Event Production Designer
An event production designer can use HeavyM to create immersive experiences. Its ability to adapt to events and quick setup time make it a dependable tool for fast-paced event environments.
MADRIX
MADRIX is a renowned player in the world of LED control tools. With its roots in Germany, this award-winning software offers a flexible and creative approach to LED light shows using your ordinary computer or laptop. Ideal for both 2D and 3D LED applications, MADRIX has been leading the way since 2005.
Top Features of MADRIX
Generative visual effects: Create stunning visuals with layers, FX filters and various mix modes.
2D/3D Pixel Mapping: Ensures crisp, vibrant visuals across tens of thousands of LEDs. Pixel mapping can be in either 2D or 3D, depending on your unique needs.
Versatile Connectivity: Supports numerous output connections including DMX512, DVI, and Art-Net, among others.
Real-time Video Streaming: Ability to sync with Music2Light real-time effects and supports digital sound processing.
Feature
Description
MADRIX KEY USB dongle
Activates MADRIX 5 Software and MADRIX RADAR Software, allowing license upgrades and output adjustments based on requirements.
Matrix Controller with Recalculation
Independently manages LED fixture matrix, empowering precise positioning and control.
DMX Support
MADRIX can operate with any DMX/MIDI console for increased capability.
MADRIX Limitations
System Requirements: Requires a 2.0 GHz dual-core-CPU, OpenGL 2.0 graphics card, and at least 2GB RAM.
User Interface: While powerful, the interface might be complex for beginners.
MADRIX Pricing
Specifics about MADRIX’s pricing were not provided in the company’s summary.
MADRIX Use Cases
Use Case 1 – LED Light Shows
Whether for a concert, club, or personal event, MADRIX provides a diverse range of colours, visuals, and effects for captivating LED light shows.
Use Case 2 – 3D Visual Installations
Designers and artists can leverage MADRIX’s 3D voxel mapping to create vibrant, intensity and depth in their 3D LED matrices installations.
Use Case 3 – Professional VJs
VJs can rely on MADRIX for managing large scale LED setups with synched visuals, incorporating real-time effects.
Millumin
The green future of augmented reality mapping and data tracking has a name, and it’s Millumin. This advanced software tool is designed to push the boundaries of interactive media, bringing together the worlds of tech and ecology in a sustainable way.
Top Millumin Features
Advanced Mapping: Provides state-of-the-art mapping options, including curve outputs and data tracking capabilities.
Soft-Edge Matrix and Warping: Innovative features enable a softer blend of mixed imagery with direct application onto the canvas.
Control Signals: Triggers specific actions at certain moments via various signals such as MIDI, OSC, and DMX.
Web Visualization: Millumin offers complete web visibility and embeds audio in the NDI stream along with video.
Feature
Description
Sequencer capabilities
Triggers transitions and states for various media types, including LEDs, videos, and lights.
Videomapping tool
An all-in-one tool suitable for diversified surfaces and projections.
Real-Time Shader editing
An inbuilt inline editor for real-time shader editing supporting ISF shader format.
Millumin Limitations
Limited person-detector and skeleton-tracker features, currently only available for Apple M1.
Screen-capture function only capable of capturing windows running on macOS.
Millumin Pricing
Millumin offers a flexible licensing model, providing options for lifetime use or short-term rentals ranging from 7 days to 1 year. The number of computers that can be activated at a time is representative of the license’s seat count.
Millumin Use Cases
Use Case 1 – Advanced Media Production
Utterly vital for media professionals, Millumin ensures a seamless transition between varying media types with its sequencer. Merging video, lights, and LEDs, it crafts a coherent and compelling output.
Use Case 2 – Web Visualizations
For professionals who intend to visualize entire webs, Millumin is a gem. Its ability to embed audio and video into the NDI stream makes it a powerful and comprehensive tool for web visualizations.
Use Case 3 – Live Stage Performances
In live stage performance scenarios, Millumin shines as a control hub. Its ability to send signals to trigger specific actions at particular moments, greatly enhances the level of control over the performance dynamics.
VDMX
Say hello to VDMX, a tech wonder brought to you by NY-based VIDVOX. Tailored for visual artists and performers, VDMX is your personal DJ, mixing visual effects with sound in an immersive blend of technology and creativity.
Top Features of VDMX
Advanced VJ software: Integrates other performance apps, providing a seamless connection between technology and talent.
Built-in audio reactivity: Ever heard of sound fused with your visuals? VDMX is your maestro, orchestrating visuals with volume, frequency, and instrument selection.
Remote control: VDMX doesn’t discriminate between your iPad and MIDI controller to bend visual effects to your will.
Scalable and adjustable: Scale up or down, pick parameters of your choice for rendering and movie playback.
Connectivity: Syncs with all standard MIDI and OSC controllers, acting as the media server of your dreams, or maybe your lighting console if you prefer.
Feature
Description
Format Support
Movies, GIFs, images, text, HTML, you name it VDMX plays it
Visual Effects
GLSL, CoreImage, Quartz Composer, FreeFrame, FreeFrameGL, all supported with preview options, plus geometry adjustments and color corrections
Intelligent Audio Sync
Syncs visuals with live audio, intelligently reacting to volume, frequency, and instrument selection
VDMX Limitations
System requirements demand an Intel-based Mac, Mac OS X 10.13 minimum; best shows performed with Nvidia/ATI Graphics Card, 4+ GB RAM.
Limited programming language support, with only Quartz Composer, Vuo, and GLSL catered to.
VDMX Use Cases
Live Music
Whether it’s a grungy garage band or a symphony orchestra, VDMX is the perfect visual companion providing a seamless audio-visual experience for live music performances.
Digital Painting
For the digital Da Vincis out there, VDMX offers a vibrant canvas where it paints brushstrokes with sound and splashes color with rhythm.
Abstract Generative Performances
Make the abstract tangible as VDMX unearths graphic wonders from beats and rhythm in abstract generative performances.
Blender
A powerhouse in 3D computer graphics software tools, Blender has been in the scene since January 1994, originally developed by Dutch animation studio NeoGeo. Open-source and free, it’s used in diverse areas like animated films, visual effects, VR, 3D printed models, and interactive 3D applications.
Top Blender Features
3D modelling: Create intricate, geometrically complex models.
UV mapping & texturing: Offers precise control over how an image is projected onto a 3D surface.
Rigging and Skinning: Set up a control system for deforming a 3D mesh.
Fluid & particle simulation: Craft realistic or stylized simulations of real world phenomena.
Animation and Motion Graphics: Ideate from scratch or modify existing assets for films and games.
Language
Description
C, C++, Python
Blender uses these advanced languages, providing flexibility and capability.
36 Languages
Blender is available in a wide range of languages, serving users around the globe.
Linux, macOS, Windows, BSD, Haiku
With support across most popular OS, Blender is accessible to all.
Blender Downsides
Blender Game Engine has been depreciated in 2.8 release.
Blender Internal was removed in 2.80 release to favor Eevee renderer.
Blender Pricing
Blender is open-source and free, making it a cost-effective alternative for creators on a budget.
Blender Use Cases
Use case 1: Animated Films
With its advanced animation features, Blender offers an all-in-one solution for digital animation artists.
Use case 2: Visual Effects
Blender’s simulation capabilities make it apt for creating life-like effects for film or TV.
Use case 3: Interactive 3D Applications
Thanks to extensive import/export support, Blender seamlessly integrates into any 3D-based workflow.
After Effects
A real game changer in the industry of animating and visual effects, After Effects is a tool by Adobe that heavily bestows the world of motion graphics with its powerful features. Used extensively across various media, it’s a golden tool in digitally cultivating visual treats.
After Effects Top Features
Visual Effects Creation: Endow your videos or digital media with ingenious visual effects using After Effects.
Motion Graphics: This tool breathes life into still content, morphing it into eye-catching, dynamic motion graphics.
Animation Capabilities: Animate characters, logos, text, and graphics for a compelling visual presentation.
3D Space Design: After Effects not only supports, but promotes creativity in 3D space, adding depth to your art.
Preset Provision: From experienced motion designers, gain access to a library of presets that will streamline your workflow.
Integration with Adobe Products: Seamless connectivity with other Adobe software like Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro enriches usability.
Diverse Platform Deployment: Cloud, SaaS, Web-Based, Mobile, and On-Premise deployments offer flexibility.
Feature
Benefit
Third-Party Integration Support
Extended functionality with plug-ins, scripts, and extensions.
Text Overlay, 3D Modeling, 3D Video Editing
Enhance your digital projects with textual elements and 3D designs and adjustments.
Rendering & Content Management
Smoothly render your animations and manage your media assets effectively.
After Effects Limitations
Despite supporting 3D space, it lacks efficiency in building 3D environments and models.
While a formidable tool for special effects, it’s not the go-to software for extensive video editing.
After Effects Pricing
After Effects boasts both accessible and diverse pricing. For individuals, it starts at $20.99/month while the teams can procure it for just $35.99/month per license. It is also included in the Creative Cloud All Apps plan with different pricings for varied users.
After Effects Use Cases
Post-Production
After Effects shines in the post-production phase, manipulating layer stacking to create awe-striking motion graphics or visual effects.
User Experience Design
For those in UI/UX, After Effects offers potent opportunities to craft compelling mock-up animations, enriching the user experience.
Media and Entertainment
Indispensable in creating the captivating titles for Star Trek: Into Darkness and other groundbreaking projects, After Effects is a vital ally in the media and entertainment industry.
QLab
Enter the realm of QLab, an industry standard for integrated show control cues, covering sound, video, light and beyond. Developed by Figure 53, this potent tool has been a trusted ally for theatres and live entertainment since 2007.
QLab Top Features
One central platform supporting design flexibility and remote collaboration.
Comprehensive feature list and fully-featured demo mode.
Sound creation and playback of audio cues for live events with support for Dante, AVB, NDI, mixing tools, and audio effects chains.
Powerful Video design with capabilities for run projections, customizable geometry, and projection mapping.
Unique offering of up to 1,000 video layers, chained video effects, per-cue blend modes, and text cues.
New video engine in QLab 5 that leverages Apple’s new Metal framework for enhanced performance.
Flexibility in lighting control
DMX universes via Art-Net, USB, and hundreds of lighting instrument definitions.
Integrated workflow
Cross-cue customizations and workspace collaboration via remote connection.
Robust Show Control
Support for OSC, MIDI, and timecode protocols.
QLab Downsides
Please note: We don’t have any specified limitations or disadvantages available for QLab from the provided company summary.
QLab Pricing
While QLab operates on a per license breakdown, it does offer some features for free. Detailed pricing information is not detailed in the data provided.
QLab Use Cases
Use case 1: Sound Design
For sound designers across the globe, QLab provides a seamless avenue for creating and playing back audio cues for live events.
Use case 2: Video Projections
It affords video designers the option to run projections with customizable geometry and projection mapping. Along with per-cue blend modes, it offers up to 1,000 video layers, chained video effects and text cues.
Use case 3: Lighting Control
QLab allows for flexible control over lighting with support for DMX universes via Art-Net and USB. The software comes with hundreds of lighting instrument definitions, catering to different requirements.
Max MSP
Introducing Max MSP, a versatile visual programming language for music and multimedia, graced with a robust heritage. Originating at the Institut de Recherche et Coordination Acoustique/Musique in Paris in 1985, Max MSP has blossomed into an efficient platform for interactive music performance software, thanks to the unrelenting innovations and maintenance by Cycling ’74.
Max MSP Top Features
Modular program design, allowing creation of bespoke interactions and workflows.
Full compatibility with MIDI controllers, allowing seamless integration into live music or video performances.
Comprehensive Package Manager, providing a wealth of over 50 add-ons to personalize the program to your needs.
Digital audio device designs, ideal for signal processing and creating computer music instruments.
Supports manipulation of audio data, including stretching time and shifting pitch.
Compatibility with Ableton Live extension through custom audio plugins.
Freely available tutorials and a helpful community through the online Max discussion boards.
Feature
Description
Blank Canvas Patching
Explore complex concepts by building from scratch, combining procedural commands with visual patching for simplicity.
Extensions Support
Utilize extensions written in C, C++, Java, or JavaScript, inviting third-party optimizations.
Free Trial
Experiment with the full feature set for 30 days to ensure Max MSP meets your needs.
Max MSP Limitations
Initial setup and learning curve may be steep for beginners.
While versatile, may be overkill for simple music conversion or editing tasks.
Extensive capabilities could be intimidating and may require significant investment of time to master.
Max MSP Pricing
While precise pricing was not provided in the summary, it’s worth noting that Max MSP offers a 30-day trial period with full access to all its features. This allows users to test-drive the platform before any commitment.
Max MSP Use Cases
Use Case 1: Interactive Music Performance
For artists dreaming to create and manipulate music in real-time, Max MSP offers an extraordinary solution. Enhancements from MIDI controllers and Ableton Live make it an indispensable tool for on-the-spot music/video performances.
Use Case 2: Custom Audio Plugin Creation
Sound engineers and enthusiasts can use Max MSP to design custom audio plugins, expanding the functionalities of Ableton Live.
Use Case 3: Digital Audio Processing Education
Educators and students of digital audio processing will find Max MSP’s 60+ tutorials, object reference section, and online community a potpourri of learning materials bridging theory and practice while making digital audio science accessible.
Patrick Daugherty
Content writer @ Aircada. Merging AR expertise with a love for late-night gaming sessions.
