Show Control

Software

CSC Show Control

This is my favorite show control software for Windows.(Sorry, no Mac or Linux versions) Many of the shows I have done used prerecorded tracks so I needed software that I could sync to my lighting and projection. This program is exceptional at doing that. There is a free 2 channel version but I recommend the LE Version which gives you up to 8 channels of simultaneous playback with extensive sound control and even editing on the fly. In addition you can send Midi, MMC and OSC messages to other equipment such as lighting desks, digital mixers, and projection equipment. See my tutorials page for links to video tutorials.

CSC Show Control on the web

Stage Research SFX 6.7

Stage Research is offering their SFX6.7 software free of charge, but I do suggest making a donation since this previously sold for $400.00. The software will play multiple audio files and also send midi and msc messages so you can use it to control external devices like mixers and light boards. The only catch is that there is no support or manual included. There are no restrictions and the software is fully functional. Windows Only (No Mac or Linux versions)

SFX6.7 on the web

QLab 5

Industry standard show control software for Mac computers. Extensive audio playback controls with multiple outputs. Certain versions can also include video output and DMX lighting control. Midi, MSC and OSC input and output for total show integration. There is a limited free demo version available to try it out.

QLab 5 on the web

Multiplay 3.0

Multiplay was a longtime favorite of many community theater groups but fell into disuse as it was never updated for newer versions of the Windows OS. Now a new group of programmers has taken an interest and are updating the software. It is listed as a beta version but works very well and they are constantly doing updates. It is for Windows OS only and is open source. Click on the link below, then "News / Releases" then "Latest Version with download links". Also check out my tutorials for the software on the tutorials page of this web site.

Multiplay 3.0 on the web

USB Audio Interfaces

I recommend using an audio interface with the above software instead of getting the audio signal from your computer headphone jack. The interface will greatly improve the audio quality and you can avoid any electrical noise and hum. Purchasing an interface with multiple outputs allows you send audio to multiple locations in the venue for a more realistic sonic environment. Additionally an interface which also incorporates Midi will allow you to send show control signals to other devices.

Presonus 24C

USB powered
Mic/Line inputs = 2
Audio Outputs = 2 TRS
Midi in & Out
Headphone Jack

Find it here

Focusrite Scarlet 4i4

USB Powered
Mic/Line inputs = 2
Audio Outputs = 4 TRS
Midi in & Out
Headphone Jack

Find it here

Behringer UMC204 HD

USB Powered
Mic/Line inputs = 2
Audio Outputs = 6 (2 TRS, 4 RCA)
Midi in & Out
Headphone Jack

Find it here

Behringer UMC404 HD

USB Powered
Mic/Line inputs = 4
Audio Outputs = 6 (2 XLR/TRS, 4 TRS/RCA)
Midi in & Out
Headphone Jack

Find it here

Utility programs

Here are some utility programs that I use to troubleshoot and also to add increased functionality to certain software applications.

Loopbe 1

LoopBe1 is a virtual midi cable utility for Windows OS. It allows you to connect two programs running on the same computer as if there were physical midi cables. You can then use a show control program like CSC Show Control to send messages to a lighting program like QLC+ and totally synchronize your audio and lighting cues. The program is free for personal use and a commercial use license can be purchased for a minimal fee. For Windows OS only.

Where to find

Midi-Ox vers 7.0.2

This is a must have Midi utility for Windows OS that has allowed me to trouble shoot and solve many midi issues over the years.View midi input and out put. Send and receive all kinds of midi messages including MSB and LSB which helps with keyboard and tone module setups. Midi filtering and Mapping. Midi time code and midi sync. Midi translation and patch map. Midi devices port mapping. Midi sysex messages. It does it all !! For Windows OS only

Where to find

Boem Midi Translator

Another Windows OS go to program I use very frequently. Put this program on your power point laptop and it will change midi messages into key presses so you can sync your presentation to the audio. You have an older light board that only understands MMC commands but your show control software only sends midi note messages? No problem. You can set up a translator between the two. You can connect your show control computer to your PPT laptop, light board, and digital mixer to have complete synchronization. For Windows OS only.

Where to find

OSC Keypress

A new program by Eleton Audiotechnik for Windows OS which accepts OSC commands and converts them to key presses. Use this in combination with show control software to synchronize slide shows, projections or any type of software that can be controlled by key presses. Great interface that is easy to understand and program to your needs. For Windows OS only.

Where to find