

I do want to note that LightKey does not offer any OSC control. That’s why it’s so great that LightKey is easy to integrate MIDI Controllers with.ĭepending what you have available or what your budget may allow, you have multiple options on what MIDI controllers would work. FadersĪ last point I want to touch base on with LightKey is that they don’t offer their own wings, faders, or extensions. Having the hardware and equipment that can roll with those changes helps save more money in the long run. When it comes to future-proofing, you always want to consider that circumstances will change and there may be upgrades in the future. With USB to DMX output hardware, that is most likely not the case. So, by choosing to invest in an Art-Net or sACN node will mean that you can take that output hardware and use it for a different setup. Things change, and you might not plan on using LightKey forever. When working with a network DMX option, you also won’t have issues with the distance as you would when working with USB to DMX.
#LIGHTKEY ALTERNATIVE FREE FULL#
With output hardware, there are devices that offer two outputs,and that allows you to do so much and be able to change or extend your setup.įor more details on how Art-Net and sACN work you can read the full post: What are Art-Net and sACN? More than ever, we’re hearing about Art-Net and sACN being used in lighting. Overall, I do recommend steering away from this option and considering the networked approach instead. Your USB to DMX output hardware cannot be setup over a certain distance which can make it more challenging for a setup. For example if you decide to go with a less expensive USB to DMX hardware, it may be difficult for your computer to process the signal and cause your lights to blink which eventually means it’s no good. More than ever USB DMX output is becoming difficult to set up. In the previous years, the USB to DMX has often reined as king but over the years I have noticed a trend that it’s beginning to fade out USB, Art-Net and sACN are becoming more popular. But which method is best for you? USB to DMX When you first set up LightKey, you are presented with a few different options in regards to the output.

So, what does that mean for you?īecause LightKey does not sell any output hardware, it may end up costing you more than the licensing if you decide you want more control options for your setup. It is strictly just the lighting software. LightKey also doesn’t sell any faders, buttons, or wings. One of the unique pieces about LightKey is that it does not sell any output hardware. If you have decided that LightKey is right for you or if you are wanting to learn more, we’re going to discuss the output options that would work with LightKey. You can test the demo version here: What DMX / Playback Interface Should I Use with LightKey? This gives you a feel of how different tools work. Even if you don’t hook up any lights, it’s a good practice to just log in and try out the different functions. I always recommend checking out a demo if there is one available. As I mentioned earlier if you’re looking to integrate and work with MIDI Controllers, LightKey does make it very easy to do so. If you are someone that enjoys working with Macs and you’re looking for an intermediate console, then LightKey may be a great option for you. When you have a lot of lights and start adding in multiple colors, it builds up very quickly. To do this, you have to a Preset Palette for each type of light that you would want to do in red. But as far as being able to keep your lights, palettes, and cues organized it does get very busy inside of the program.įor example, you want to program your lights for the color red. In some cases, you may need to purchase an extra universe. LightKey is able to handle more than 20 lights and different types of fixtures.
