


If you don’t already have a second laptop, you may want to also factor that into your budget when preparing to shop for lighting software. DMX software doesn’t require much processing power to run, and an older laptop should be able to handle it easily.

While a good computer can run both DJ software and DMX lighting software at the same time with little trouble, most professional DJs prefer to use a two-laptop set-up for convenience during their shows, with one designated for light and one for sound. It should also be noted that while DMX signals are generally reliable, they are subject to interference and should not be used for potentially dangerous effects like pyrotechnics. Like other digital cables, the signal quality will degrade over long distances, and you may need to invest in repeaters to increase the effective range depending on the size of your lighting set-up. The cables consists of two shielded pairs, typically with 5 pins, though 3-pin versions exist that can be used with microphone XLR cabling. If it doesn’t, you can find a variety of USB dongles online for not much. Some DMX software-like the Sunlite Suite above-comes with a USB/DMX adapter. In order to do this, you’ll need a designated USB to DMX adapter ( see a bunch here), plugged into DMX cables.

In order to use your new software to run a lightshow, you need to be able to get the signal from your computer to the lights themselves. Other Considerations re the Best DMX Lighting Software These are the best DMX lighting software on the market:īlizzard Lighting EclipseDMX Controlling Software There are a lot of good options for DMX software on the market today, four of which are explored below. Software is also infinitely more upgradable than DMX controllers, allowing you to easily install new fixtures, features, and plug-ins. Using software allows you to pre-program complex sequences and cue up multiple sequences at once. While some DJs prefer the hands-on controls offered by DMX controllers, outboard controllers can’t compete with the programming capabilities of DMX software. For the top quality and control of your show lights, nothing beats using your own equipment, and the best way to control a complex network of stage fixtures is with an intelligent lighting system. While most venues have functional house lighting systems, relying exclusively on the venue’s equipment leaves you at their whim, limited in what you can accomplish. A well-orchestrated light show can have a major impact on the success of DJ sets or live shows.
