DMX lighting background

Features

Professional DMX512 lighting control software with everything you need to create stunning lightshows

Core Lighting Control

DMXDesktop is a professional DMX512 lighting control software designed for live shows, clubs, DJs and stage productions. It combines powerful programming tools with intuitive real-time control so you can create stunning lightshows that scale from small venues to arenas.

Multi-Universe Support

Control multiple DMX universes simultaneously (license-dependent), ideal for large-scale stage and club installations.

Real-Time DMX Output

High-performance output with Art-Net, sACN (E1.31), and USB DMX interfaces for seamless hardware integration.

Global Controls

Master dimmer, blackout, blinder, and freeze functions give instant access to critical live performance features.

Live Console Mode

A responsive, music-synced interface for running shows in real time without interruption.

Fixture Library & Management

DMXDesktop makes fixture setup fast and reliable with an extensive library of 27,000+ profiles and advanced patching tools. Whether you're managing a small rig or a complex stage, everything stays organized.

Fixture Profiling System

Create or edit your own fixture definitions for maximum compatibility.

Intelligent Fixture Patching

Prevent errors with built-in conflict detection.

Multi-Mode Fixture Support

Switch between DMX channel modes effortlessly.

Fixture & Channel Grouping

Group fixtures or heads logically for quick programming.

Pixel Mapping Tools

Arrange LED bars, strips, and matrices with reusable templates.

Position Finder

Place and visualize fixtures on a stage map to streamline programming.

DJ & Audio Integration

Built for DJs and performers, DMXDesktop syncs lights directly with music to create immersive audio-reactive shows.

VirtualDJ Plugin & OS2L Support

Direct integration with VirtualDJ for precise control.

Traktor Pro 3 & 4 Plugin

Dedicated integration with Traktor Pro 3 and Traktor Pro 4 for seamless control from DJ Mode. Earlier Traktor versions are not supported.

Works with All Major DJ Software

Compatible with Serato, Rekordbox, and more via audio analysis.

AI-Powered Show Generation

Automatically create lightshows from tracks to save programming time.

BPM Synchronization

Lights lock to tempo for perfectly timed effects.

Ableton Link Support

Sync with Ableton Live and other Link-enabled apps.

Video & MP4 Playback

Load MP4s and video formats directly into DMXDesktop, perfectly timecode-synced to audio.

Built-in CD+G Player

Classic karaoke tracks decoded and displayed in sync with audio.

Pop-Out Video Screen

Open video in a floating window, drag to a second monitor, or full-screen on a projector.

Audio Analysis

DMXDesktop uses advanced real-time audio analysis to drive lighting effects in perfect sync with your music.

Beat Detection

Tracks beats automatically for rhythm-driven lighting.

Frequency Spectrum Analysis

Detects kicks, snares, vocals, and melodies with high-resolution FFT.

Multiple Input Modes

Line-in, loopback, and system audio capture options.

Multi-Format Compatibility

Works with MP3, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, OGG, M4A, WMA, and more.

Effects & Automation

DMXDesktop features one of the most advanced automation engines available in any lighting control software, with over 30 beam effects and 10+ movement effects built in. These effects can run automatically, sync to BPM, or be modified in real time.

Beam Effects (30+)

Sequencers, twinkles, waves, chases, pulses, washes, phased pulses, carousels, alternating colors, strobing, flashes, and more.

Movement Effects (13+)

Animate moving heads with circles, figure-8s, arcs, bursts, boxes, diamonds, crosses, vertical patterns, and random paths.

Color & Gobo Effects

Dynamic color rotation, rainbow sweeps, gobo rotation, prism effects, and layered automation.

Special Effects

Add drama with paparazzi flashes, thunder effects, sparkles, and random strobes.

Flexible Timing

Run effects manually or sync them to BPM for perfect musical alignment.

Fog & Haze Control

Integrate DMX-controlled foggers, hazers, and smoke machines.

Programming & Show Control

DMXDesktop provides a professional programmer interface inspired by theater consoles, giving you complete creative control.

Attribute Control

Adjust intensity, colors, pan/tilt, and beam attributes with precision.

Color Picker & Gel Library

Access professional gel palettes for consistent colors.

Cue System

Save cues and cue stacks with flexible timing.

Effect Cues & Live Editing

Trigger pre-programmed effects or modify shows on the fly – perfect for live performances.

MIDI, OSC & Remote Control

Take hands-on control with MIDI controllers, OSC devices, and mobile access, making DMXDesktop flexible for any workflow.

Custom MIDI Mapping

Map any controller, with LED feedback support.

Pre-Configured Maps

Out-of-the-box support for APC Mini, Launchpad, and more.

MCU (Mackie Control) Support

Professional-grade control surface compatibility.

RTP-MIDI

Wireless MIDI over WiFi or Ethernet.

OSC Server

Comprehensive OSC support with customizable command mapping.

Mobile Web Interface

Control lighting from smartphones or tablets.

Stage Management & Visualization

Keep shows organized and easy to run with multi-stage management tools and visualization features.

Multi-Stage Configurations

Save setups for different venues and recall instantly.

Stage Templates

Reuse layouts across shows to reduce setup time.

Visualizer Tools

Floorplan view, channel monitor, and universe viewer for real-time feedback.

Bulk Fixture Operations

Edit, clone, or remove multiple fixtures in one step.

Data, Backup & Cloud

Your work is always safe with local and cloud storage options.

Local Project Database

Store shows and configurations securely.

Cloud Backup

Automatic syncing and backup to the cloud.

Import/Export Tools

Transfer settings easily between computers.

Playlist & Metadata Management

Organize music tracks and edit details to keep everything consistent.

And Much More...

Diagnostics & Reliability

  • • Network & Device Monitoring
  • • Performance Metrics
  • • Error Logging & Crash Reporting

User Interface & Accessibility

  • • Multi-Language Support (6 languages)
  • • Customizable Workspaces
  • • Dark Theme Optimized
  • • Built-In Help & Tooltips

Performance & Optimization

  • • Multi-Threaded DMX Processing
  • • GPU-Accelerated Visualization
  • • Smart Resource Management
  • • Optimized Compression

Why Choose Software Over Hardware?

Undoubtedly, the biggest advantage is upfront cost.

A lifetime license for DMXDesktop can be a fraction of the price of even an entry-level hardware console – and dramatically cheaper than advanced consoles offering comparable capabilities. And unlike hardware, which typically carries only a 1-2 year warranty and can require full replacement when it reaches end-of-life, software doesn't deteriorate.

With continuous updates, long-term compatibility with modern Mac/PC hardware, and no expensive physical components to replace, DMXDesktop delivers significant long-term savings for individuals, venues, and production teams.

Ready to Get Started?

Download DMXDesktop today and experience professional lighting control.