PVP stands for multi-screen media servers, offering PVP3 licensing for new customers requiring additional licenses. PVP is a Mac-based multi-screen media server used for multi-screen playback and video effects in live events and fixed installations. It handles various display technologies independently and has a user interface that adapts to user needs.
For those exploring options beyond PVP, alternatives include Resolume, MADRIX, ArKaos, VDMX, QLab, Millumin, Watchout, ProPresenter, Disguise.
Resolume
Resolume is a digital space where the realms of audio.visual performance and interactive media converge, bringing together elements of DJing, VJing, music production, and video editing. Inspired by Cédric Chabuel, also known as Ouananiche, it was one of the early adopters of ‘Video Musical Remix’, a technique blending motion picture with music while maintaining synchronicity.
Resolume Top Features
Projection Mapping: Resolume ARENA 7 is designed for seamless projection mapping on any type of surfaces and structures.
Visual Effects: In-built visual effects plugins, with support for 3rd party plugins for enhanced customization.
Integration: Syncs with external apps via Syphon (Mac) or Spout (Windows).
Control: Manageable through a MIDI controller, iPhone via OSC, or a lighting desk using its DMX capabilities.
Native Support: Compatible with major capture cards like Blackmagic, AJA, and Datapath for video source inputs and outputs.
Feature
Benefit
Edge Blending
Ensures seamless projections with multiple projectors.
Real-Time Rendering
Offers live composite and effects manipulation.
Scale & Position Adjustment
Aids in personalizing videos and clips dimensions.
Resolume Downsides
Copyright Constraints: Creating remixes involves working with original materials, which may lead to potential copyright issues.
Resolume Use Cases
Use case 1: AV Performances
Resolume’s harmonious amalgamation of sound and visuals lends itself beautifully to AV performances. Artists can remix videos, movies, sounds, without worrying about synchronizations while enhancing their performances with Resolume’s powerful editing tools.
Use case 2: Architectural Projections
With the ARENA 7’s projection mapping capabilities, architects and urban designers can readily project their visualizations onto complex geometrical structures, perhaps for a mesmerizing public display or an immersive client presentation.
Use case 3: Live Concerts & DJ Performances
Resolume’s DMX capabilities allow light sync with music in a live concert setting, creating an unparalleled immersive experience. DJs can control the software using MIDI controllers, curating a vibrant audio-visual spectacle in real-time.
MADRIX
Delving into the world of interactive media, we encounter MADRIX, a top-tier LED control tool that has been enhancing visual experiences since 2005. MADRIX is known for cutting-edge pixel mapping in both 2D and 3D formats, and offers flexibility to design LEDs with vibrant colors, inspiring visuals, and captivating effects.
MADRIX Top Features
Generative visuals/effects: Craft visually stunning light shows thanks to MADRIX’s innate ability to generate captivating visuals and effects.
Pixel Mapping in 2D/3D: Whether you’re dealing with 2D or 3D applications, MADRIX provides seamless pixel mapping for crisp visuals.
Multiple Use Capabilities: It can be a versatile LED lighting controller, a media server, a 2D pixel mapper, or 3D voxel mapper. The permutations are almost endless.
High Capacity LED Control: The MADRIX software can control tens of thousands of LEDs, ideal for large projects
MADRIX KEY Functionality
Real-time Visual Effects
Flexibility with output connections includes Art-Net I, II, 3, 4; DMX512; Philips Color Kinetics KiNET, and more.
Real-time video streaming and audio analysis support enhances interactive experiences.
MADRIX Limitations
System requirements: MADRIX comes with minimum system requirements that include a 2.0 GHz dual-core-CPU, OpenGL 2.0 graphics card, 2GB RAM amongst others. Be sure you have these before investing.
May need additional inputs for full utilization: To get the most functionality out of MADRIX, you might need additional inputs like ASIO, CITP, DMX512, and MIDI.
MADRIX Pricing
While specifics on pricing weren’t shared in the company summary, other information suggests various licenses can be obtained according to output requirement, with upgrades also possible through the MADRIX KEY.
MADRIX Use Cases
Use case 1 – Musical Instrument Light Show
If you’re a musician looking to enhance your live performances, MADRIX can control your LED fixtures, syncing visuals with audio for a riveting show.
Use case 2 – LED Application Projects
For individuals and businesses seeking to create a magical ambiance in a physical space, MADRIX allows both 2D and 3D LED applications. The result? Breathtaking light shows.
Use case 3 – Real-time Visual Productions
For film or production studios, MADRIX can be used to influence real-time visual effects, ensuring every scene is aesthetically spectacular.
ArKaos
Immerse yourself in the rhythm of the digital world with ArKaos, a spirited power-player in the realm of real-time media playback and mapping. Crafted for the creators, this media software suite transforms the narratives of live performers and video artists, catalyzing an artistic renaissance.
ArKaos Top Features
Multi-layered reality: MediaMaster Pro 6 brandishes an arsenal of 48 layers, empowering artists to weave intricate media tapestries.
Synchronicity: Harnessing Ableton Link, performances across software align to a tempo, orchestrating harmonious visual concerts.
Rekordbox Connectivity: ShowKontrol integration conduits Rekordbox track data straight from the DJ booth to all creative collaborators.
Network Sharing: MediaHub beckons collaboration, encouraging resource sharing across networks.
Universal Compatibility: ArKaos allies with an array of media formats, boasting built-in proprietary ArKaos SAGA codec.
Feature
Benefit
GrandVJ 2.7
Unlocks a suite of features from TRACKDJ to NDIGrandVJ with Multiple NDI in-and outputs.
Unicast Network
LED Mapper’s support for larger networks via unicast widens creative horizons.
Theater Mode Interface
Offers streamlined visualization under a few lighting desk channels for an ethereal theatrical performance.
ArKaos Limitations
Restricted OS Support: ArKaos currently does not support macOS 10.15 or 11 M1.
Limited Payment Option: Third-party payment processors accepted, yet direct payment information storage is unavailable.
ArKaos Pricing
ArKaos models an accessible entry point into the realm of artistic creation, with plans initiating from €99.60 per month. A free trial heralds an invitation to prospective users.
ArKaos Use Cases
Use Case 1: VJs and DJs
ArKaos is a maestro of synchronization, effortlessly marrying visuals to the pulsing beats of DJ performances. Supplemented with ShowKontrol integration, it establishes a seamless connection between the console and the visual arena.
Use Case 2: Corporate Presentations
For corporate presentations, it operates as an adept storytelling assistant, delving into the depths of visually compelling data narratives.
Use Case 3: Singers and Church Performances
ArKaos amplifies the resonance of sacred voices and crescendos, aligning with text through the Lyric Player to create an ethereal experience.
VDMX
A NY-based tech firm, VIDVOX, brings to the fore VDMX, a tool meticulously designed for visual artists and performers. It seamlessly integrates with other performance apps, offering a consolidated canvas for your creativity.
VDMX’s Top Features
Audio Reactivity: Melding art with algorithmic intelligence, VDMX offers sound-to-light and sound-to-movement functionalities with refined volume, frequency, and instrument selectivity.
Multiple Programming Language Support: Speaking the language of your creativity, it supports Quartz Composer, Vuo, and GLSL programming languages.
Wireless Control: For an unbounded creative process, VDMX brings wireless remote control via iPad and MIDI controller for visual effects.
Advanced Rendering: Component of its scalable design, VDMX supports multiple-layer rendering, multiple graphics cards, and adjustment of movie parameters like rate, volume, loop-mode, and time.
Support
Output
VDMX supports HAP video codecs for movie playback and Synopsis metadata tracks
The application makes it possible to record video streams as QuickTime movie or PNG image
Connectivity with MIDI and OSC controllers, acts as media server, lighting console over ArtNet.
Individual video layers can be outputted to other apps via Syphon and video over DMX/ArtNet.
Limitations to Cotton VDMX
Restricted Hardware: As a critical consideration, VDMX requires an Intel-based Mac with Mac OS X 10.13 minimum. An optimal system would include an Nvidia/ATI Graphics Card and 4+ GB RAM.
Potential Learning Curve: Benefiting from VDMX’s impressive range of functionalities might require a steep learning curve, especially for novices to augmented reality or visual digital arts.
Use Cases for VDMX
VDMX for Live Music:
Propelling the live music scene into new dimensions, VDMX is an invaluable tool. It intelligently syncs visuals with live audio, exciting concert-goers with a sensory feast.
VDMX for Digital Painting:
In the magical realm of digital painting, VDMX emerges as a powerful companion. Its feature-set empowers artists to manipulate sound-to-light transitions, creating a dynamic canvas that dances to the rhythm of the music.
VDMX for Abstract Generative Performances:
For Abstract Generative Performances, VDMX brings the technological prowess necessary for the demands of this advanced art, supporting standard MIDI, OSC, and DMX protocols for all-encompassing integration.
QLab
At the forefront of sound, video, and light show control, QLab is the industry standard software that levels up interactive media with its comprehensive features, demonstrating unparalleled design flexibility and remote collaboration.
QLab Top Features
Centralized Design: With its integrated workflow, creating and controlling audio, video and lighting cues is a seamless process.
Full-Featured DEMO Mode: Offers the full range of QLab’s capabilities for those looking to test-drive the software.
Play and Pause Options: QLab comes with cues that allow for start, stop, pause, load and reset functions, providing ease of live playback scenarios.
Diverse Cue Types: Equipped with a wide selection of cues that include audio, video, text, lights, fade, and more.
Workspace Collaboration: Allows remote collaboration, making it an ideal tool for teams working across different locations.
Feature
Description
1,000 Video Layers
Support for large-scale video design needs, with per-cue blend modes, chained video effects, and text cues.
Audio Effects Chains
Audio cues have the ability to support Dante, AVB, NDI, and mixing tools, ensuring premium quality sound.
MIDI, OSC, Timecode Integration
QLab supports various show control protocols, including OSC, MIDI, and timecode for precise performance management.
QLab Disadvantages
As a predominantly macOS software, QLab’s accessibility on other operating systems is limited
It may present a steep learning curve for novices due to its comprehensive feature list and capabilities.
QLab Pricing
QLab offers a tiered licensing model that provides different levels of features per license. Even without a license, the free features offered by QLab remain accessible.
QLab Use Cases
Use case 1: Theatre Production
Since 2007, QLab has been instrumental to many theatre and live entertainment productions, where its capability to create and manipulate sound and light cues is leveraged to enhance the theatrical experience.
Use case 2: Live Events
QLab’s ability to manage real-time video file alteration and time-aligned cues is vital in ensuring smooth and synchronized visual elements during live events.
Use case 3: Collaboration in Designing
With remote collaboration feature, QLab is ideal for teams working across different locations. Each member can contribute, providing a truly collaborative and unified design experience.
Millumin
A robust solution for all your mapping needs, Millumin is a potent software designed for high-end data tracking, advanced mapping, and output curvation. Enhanced through a host of features, it offers utmost flexibility for an array of interactive media projects.
Millumin Top Features
Soft-edge matrix, warping and masks: Directly applicable on canvas.
Remapping: Multiple canvas remapping to a specific output or split into outputs.
Signal control: Controls signals such as MIDI, OSC, DMX triggering precise values.
Blackmagic ATEM switcher control: For camera adjustments via NDI PTZ protocol.
Timeline-editor: Inclusive of keyframes, curves, and segments for superior timing flexibility.
Additional Features
Functionality
Skeleton-tracker and person-detector
Detects and tracks personal movements (Available only on Apple M1)
Advanced-layout
Manages complex setups and blends the outputs of videoprojectors
After Effects Previews
Enables viewing of real-time compositions without rendering the entirety
Millumin Disadvantages
Limited compatibility: The advanced features such as skeleton tracking and person detection are available only for Apple M1 users.
Complexities: Can seem complex to users new to interactive media software.
Millumin Pricing
Millumin is not open-sourced. It offers licenses for lifetime use or short-term rentals, i.e., for 7 days, 30 days, or 1 year, thus suiting various budget needs.
Millumin Use Cases
Use Case 1: Advanced Mapping Projects
Millumin’s robust inbuilt features make it ideal for complex mapping projects that require control over varied signals, swift remapping abilities, and specific output curvations.
Use Case 2: Interactive Media Productions
Production teams requiring flexible sequencing options, real-time previews, and tracking abilities will find Millumin particularly handy.
Use Case 3: Complex Installation Setups
For those engaged with complex installation setups, Millumin’s advanced layout capabilities and responsive control options make it a well-suited choice.
Watchout: The Future of Multi-Display
Stepping up in the world of interactive media is none other than Watchout, the heavyweight champ from Dataton. A cutting-edge multi-display system software, Watchout embodies dataton’s fervor for innovation.
Watchout Sterling Features
Integrates compositions, akin to those on After Effects, streamlining your show flow and crushing the hassle of laborious updates.
Free-running animated loops keep your animations smooth, consistent, and enthralling.
The unique addition of alternative timelines marches over harsh screen cuts, creating a seamless jumping experience.
Pile up pre-done animations over the main timeline, crediting you with flexibility and adaptability.
The new export movies feature shaves off hours from your pre-production process, while enhancing client reviews and content archiving.
Synchronization with external systems is a breeze, thanks to the integrated external control system accommodating light, serial ports, TCP/IP, DMX.
Feature
Advantage
Flipped Timelines Compositing Order
Makes Watchout consistent with other layer-based compositors
Neighborhood Features
Offers the ability to analyze factors affecting home values
Watchout Downsides
Closeness to high-noise areas (busy roads, airports, train tracks) may discourage potential users.
Limited neighborhood amenities could affect software appeal and convenience.
Poor school districts or negative perceptions (proximity to industrial sites, landfills, housing projects) could lower demand.
Antique maintenance indicates community disinterestedness that could lead to steady decay.
Watchout Use Cases
Use case 1: Real Estate Investors
With its sophisticated neighborhood features analysis, Watchout is an indispensable tool for real estate investors. From identifying high-noise areas to assessing poor school districts, the depths you can plunge into are boundless.
Use case 2: Graphic Designers
Graphic designers can capitalize on the After Effects-like compositions, free-running animated loops, and alternative timelines to create captivating visual experiences for their audiences.
Use case 3: Event Organizers
For event organizers, the ability to create seamless show flows and update cues on the fly makes Watchout an agile and reliable workhorse in their toolkit.
ProPresenter
Developed by Renewed Vision, ProPresenter is a front-runner in live production and presentation software, especially treasured among church tech teams for its broad array of features.
ProPresenter Top Features
Content-focused interface with dark mode
Built-in configuration for multiple screens
Creative control with a multi-layered architecture
Revised Editor Mode in ProPresenter 7 promoting enriched slide design
ProContent – a subscription-based media library incorporated within ProPresenter
Feature
Description
Improved interface for Windows
Ensures a uniform user experience between Mac and Windows
Stage Display Options
Enhanced multiple stage display outputs
ProPresenter Limitations
Registration limited to one computer.
Limited Syphon support for sharing content with other applications on the same computer.
ProPresenter Pricing
Pricing for ProPresenter varies with multiple options available, starting from $0 for a Free version to $999 for a Church Campus License.
ProPresenter Use Cases
Use case 1: Houses of Worship
ProPresenter is a boon for Houses of Worship as it allows for the display of multiple scripture translations simultaneously, and an increased text size for better visibility for operators.
Use case 2: Business/School
In schools or corporate settings, ProPresenter shines with its multi-screen support and inbuilt configuration for multiple screens, while its advanced slide editor eases the task of organizing productive presentations.
Use case 3: Rental
ProPresenter is a top-notch choice for rental services with its ability to move the license between computers, and its enhanced stage display options adding value to any event.
Disguise
Established in 2000, Disguise is an innovative platform for technologists and creatives, offering powerful visual experience production software for interactive media. The software is known for its real-time editing capabilities and training services. Disguise has carved a global presence with offices in London, Hong Kong, Los Angeles, and Shanghai, selling its technology in over 50 countries.
Disguise Top Features
Experience Production Software: Offers real-time editing and visually enhanced performances. Latest server, vx 4, supports 10-bit workflows and HDR visuals.
Global Support: Provides worldwide support, hardware repair, and replacement services, ensuring seamless operation.
Advancements in AR/VR/MR: Disguise xR can be employed for project presentations for a realistic impression of how a show will look.
Partnership Network: Partner network for technical and creative talent enhances operational efficiency.
Feature
Description
Unreal Engine 5 plugin
Allows next-generation visuals across live and virtual production
RenderStream
Allows real-time content changes directly from Designer software interface
R21 Release
Improves functionality of Designer software interface and RenderStream workflows
Disguise Downsides
Limits on 10bit 4:2:2 video capture to 16 x 3G-SDI sources or four 4K sources (2160p60).
No specified pricing in company summary.
Disguise Use Cases
Use case 1: Live Events and Concerts
Disguise’s visual experience software has been extensively utilised in live events such as Hans Zimmer’s 2022 European Tour. This real-time software service provides an immersive and seamless viewer experience.
Use case 2: Esports and Live TV Broadcasts
With its robust performance capabilities, Disguise has been a part of numerous esports and live TV broadcasts, offering unparalleled viewing experiences with enhanced visuals.
Use Case 3: Theatre and Film Productions
Disguise’s capabilities extend to theatre and film productions. Its real-time editing and rendering services are a boon for creatives in theatre and film industry.
Tiffany Brise
Content writer @ Aircada, patiently awaiting a consumer AR headset that doesn’t suck.
