I thought I should start this as its own thread...

Does anyone know of a show control software for a lap top that could handle sound and maybe sound and lights? Sort of like an I-Cue type thing, but more sophisticated. Obviously such things exist for large stage shows, but wondering if there was anyything within the thousand dollar range that would be accessible to a solo performer.

Ideally, I'd like to be able to include better audio and lighting effects in with a one man show via pre-programmed cues and such.

Suggestions?

This is not my expertise, however, when you buy lighting systems there are electronic timing devices for using that lighting.

What I didn't like was once programmed, if something changed or the timing was off the music and lighting were on differnt tracks.

There probably are device controllers for both sound and lighting. Show Tech has a unit that attaches to the Show tech that works both sound and lighting, but I never tried it.

The 110 light controller would do the trick:
http://www.wirelesswizardry.com/accessories.htm


Dennis

I have a friend that uses the Show Tech to run his lights and he really likes it.

Wonderbott,

The Solo Performer Show Controller, controls sound and light, is well within the thousand price range and comes complete with a foot controller. In addition, the foot controller also contains a DMX512 controller to control lights and a fog machine. The Solo Performer Show Controller might be what you'll looking for, download it and give a test drive.

Solo Performer Show Controller
http://www.alienapparatus.com/products.html


Peace.

If you want to use your laptop I think "Natural Mystic" has the answer. Great link! I think I might invest in one of these.

For controlling light you will need a DMX 512 protocol. There are several software options that can be used with a laptop computer: ecue, horizon, stageline,... Nowadays you plug a special blackbox to any USB port and have a DMX 512 port ready for use, older models have used a serial port (RS232) or even the printer port from the computer.

For controlling sound maybe the best choice will be a SMPTE timecode. Several lightboards already have this kind of triggering implemented in the software. In former times MIDI would have been used too.

There are also gadgets triggered by DMX 512 to control sound equipment - by this way you could use any lightboard or laptop with DMX 512. Maybe it is also useful to have a look for some professional CD players that can be triggered by an switch connected to a 6.35 mm jack plug. This will make triggering the music cues much easier.

Wireless Wizadry also has a unit called Ultra Tech. It interfaces with Elation's Compuware Pro. So now you can control Compuware, just like you would your MP3's with Showtech or their MP3Tech.

We have used Compuware for years now and love it. However, doing fair shows we don't take a production person with us on the road. So now we will have UltraTech running Compuware for us. It runs our lights, sound, video & special effects all in one.

Kevin