About
DMXIS is a professional DMX lighting control software designed primarily for bands and live performers who want to automate their stage lighting without the complexity of traditional lighting consoles. Developed by Dave Brown under the db audioware brand, it works seamlessly with ENTTEC PRO compatible hardware interfaces to deliver reliable DMX output during live shows. The software allows performers to pre-program lighting scenes and sequences that can be triggered in sync with their performances, freeing artists to focus on their music rather than managing lights manually. DMXIS integrates with Show Buddy Setlist — a companion setlist manager and backing track player — to provide an all-in-one performance control solution. While ENTTEC has ceased manufacturing the DMXIS hardware and the software is no longer in active development, it remains available for download for existing users, with the license server and fixture editor continuing to operate. For new users, db audioware recommends Show Buddy Active, the next-generation successor offering multiple DMX universes, advanced visual effects, video output, and broader hardware compatibility. DMXIS remains a solid legacy option for smaller bands and performers with existing ENTTEC hardware looking for straightforward, automated lighting control.
Key Features
- DMX Lighting Automation: Pre-program lighting scenes and sequences to run automatically during live performances, reducing manual effort on stage.
- ENTTEC Hardware Compatibility: Works with ENTTEC PRO-compatible interfaces including DMX USB PRO and PRO Mk2, enabling reliable hardware-to-software DMX control.
- Show Buddy Setlist Integration: Pairs with Show Buddy Setlist to combine lighting control with setlist management and backing track playback in one workflow.
- Fixture Editor: Includes an online fixture editor so users can define and customize lighting fixtures for their specific hardware setups.
- Legacy License Support: Existing customers retain access to downloads and an active license server, ensuring continued usability despite the product being discontinued.
Use Cases
- A band pre-programs synchronized lighting scenes for each song in their setlist, triggering them automatically during live performances.
- A solo performer uses DMXIS with a ENTTEC USB PRO interface to run a fully automated light show without a dedicated lighting technician.
- An event production team uses DMXIS alongside Show Buddy Setlist to coordinate lighting and backing tracks in a seamless performance workflow.
- A small venue installs DMXIS-based lighting automation to run consistent, repeatable light shows for recurring events.
- An existing DMXIS customer continues using the legacy software with their existing ENTTEC hardware while evaluating migration to Show Buddy Active.
Pros
- Simple for Performers: Designed specifically for musicians and live performers, making lighting automation accessible without requiring a dedicated lighting technician.
- Reliable Legacy Support: Despite being discontinued, the license server and fixture editor remain active, protecting the investment of existing users.
- Seamless Setlist Integration: Works directly with Show Buddy Setlist for a unified performance control experience covering lights, backing tracks, and MIDI.
Cons
- No Longer in Active Development: DMXIS is a legacy product with no new features, bug fixes, or updates being released, which may cause compatibility issues with newer operating systems.
- Hardware Discontinued: ENTTEC has ceased manufacturing DMXIS hardware, making it harder for new users to acquire the required interfaces.
- Limited Feature Set vs. Successor: Compared to Show Buddy Active, DMXIS lacks multi-universe support, video output, and advanced visual effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DMXIS still available to download?
Yes, the most recent version of DMXIS can still be downloaded from the db audioware website, and the license server remains active for existing customers.
What hardware does DMXIS work with?
DMXIS works with ENTTEC PRO-compatible DMX interfaces such as the DMX USB PRO and PRO Mk2. Note that ENTTEC has ceased manufacturing DMXIS-branded hardware.
What is the recommended alternative to DMXIS?
db audioware recommends Show Buddy Active as the modern replacement for DMXIS. It offers multiple DMX universes, video output, and broader hardware compatibility.
Can DMXIS be used with Show Buddy Setlist?
Yes, Show Buddy Setlist integrates with DMXIS to control lighting, while also managing your setlist, backing tracks, and MIDI equipment from a single interface.
Is DMXIS suitable for beginners?
DMXIS was designed to be approachable for bands and performers who want automated lighting without complex setup, making it relatively beginner-friendly for its intended use case.
