Enttec DMXIS is one of the very best pieces of DMX software for bands wanting to run their own shows.
Update: DMXIS is now discontinued, and ENTTEC now has created “EMU”, and we’ve got a program to get EMU in your hands – Click here for more!
But like any lighting console, it takes some learning and getting used to before you can really thrive inside of the software.
Below, I want to share with you a series of videos I’ve shot which explain the different functions of DMXIS and how to make the software work for you.
Video 1: Introduction
The first video is all about the interface and gives you a general overview of DMXIS and how it works. If you’ve never done anything in DMXIS, you definitely want to check out of this video!
If you’re more experienced in DMXIS, skip ahead to one of the other topics that you want to learn about.
Video 2: Patching
In the 2nd video, we get into patching – what it does, and how to do it!
Patching is when you tell the console where you want your DMX lights to be addressed, or set to. The great part about a console like DMXIS, is that as you patch the lights into the software, it does the math for you.
There is no more sitting down with a calculator trying to make all of your lights fit – a big bonus for sure!
Video 3: Presets and Banks
Banks and presets are DMXIS’s way of keeping your show sorted. It’s quite ingenious how the software is setup to work just like a band’s set list.
Banks are equal to songs, and presets are the individual lighting looks that make up each song. DMXIS offers the ability to sort and move around both banks and presets easily, so that you can re-arrange your songs quickly for each show’s set list.
You can also re-arrange your presets if you decide to play a particular song in a different arrangement.
Video 4: Programming FX with the Oscillator and Sound Tracker
Creating effects can be one of the most time-consuming parts of creating a great lighting show in some consoles – but this is one place that DMXIS shines.
Because DMXIS has a built-in oscillator and sound-tracker, it’s simple to create dynamic effects that follow your show perfectly.
As you’ll see in the video, the oscillator can quickly build some complicated looking effects without having to create dozens a presets or trick the console into doing what you need.
Video 5: Macros
There are a couple of reasons why the macros inside of DMXIS absolutely rock!
Macros are shortcuts that give you the ability to quickly change colors, build effects and make some cool lighting looks.
If you use DMXIS and haven’t waded into the waters of the macros, watch this video, and you’ll be saving time right away!
Video 6: Channel Masking
Like the macros, channel masking is a VERY powerful function of DMXIS.
It gives you the advanced functionality of a professional lighting console without the complication! By using the channel masks, you are able to easily select which fixtures you do and don’t want to track through to the next preset.
This can easily save you hours of time when you’re updating your presets for your next show!
Video 7: MIDI Control
Did you know that you are able to have physical faders and buttons to control your DMXIS show?
It’s true!
In fact, the MIDI control feature of DMXIS is super-easy and can save you a lot of time. Plus, if you ever grow to the point of having a lighting person run your show for you, MIDI control can give them the option to grab and move around lights at will based on the crowd’s response.
As you’ll also see, having a MIDI controller hooked up can also really speed up your time in programming, as you don’t have to spend so much time clicking your mouse!
Here’s the MIDI controller I used in the video – The Korg NanoKontrol
More Resources to Learn DMXIS:
I hope you’ve enjoyed the videos above about DMXIS.
If you want to learn more about DMXIS, we’ve got some other great resources available here on Learn Stage Lighting that can help you:
How to Go from No Lights to a Dynamic Band Lighting Show in Just 6 Weeks: Learn how my friend, Pete, was able to go from no lighting knowledge to a complete lighting show in no time! He used the DMXIS software to easily create a great light show for his band, Jimmy Ringus.
Lighting My First Bands with DMXIS Lighting Software: In this post, Pete makes an appearance to show you how you can light other bands using the DMXIS software – it’s not just limited to running a pre-programmed show from stage!
Learn Stage Lighting Labs Member Extras:
Band Lighting: Access the full Lighting Basics Blueprint and From Zero to Lighting Hero action plans to take your band’s lighting to 11! Inside, I’ll show you exactly how to start from no lighting knowledge and end with an incredible, versatile and budget-friendly lighting show, all with ENTTEC DMXIS.
Church Lighting: Access “The Foundations of Church Lighting“, where I show you exactly how to make amazing church lighting, and how you can use DMXIS or another console to control it.
Not a Labs Member? Click Here to Learn More about Learn Stage Lighting Labs!
