New here, taking a step into Visualizations

[Perception]

Hello folks! New here. I'm looking to get started into Visualizations. I am solid in Hog and Chamsys software but have about zero CAD background. I am willing to spend SOME money after I settle on software. I would LOVE to have paperwork along with with the 3D, but 5 Large is a bit much for Wys perform.

So, my question is, starting from scratch how would you progress forward in both choosing software but learning to CAD as well.

Wade

 

[jamesh]

Hi,
What are the key features you are looking for in the visualiser?
If you are looking for a quick visualiser that can produce paperwork and 3D visualisation for pre programming that MagicVis might be worth a look.
MagicVis comes free as part of the MagicQ software and all information for the Vis is stored in your MagicQ show file.

MagicVis

Any questions with MagicVis let me know.

 

[Y-Lighting]

Hello

I am looking to buy a visualizer (not wysiwyg as it is to expensive). I am an independent lighting designer, running multiple venues, festivals and concerts. The main consoles I use are Grandma2, Martin M1, Etc element and avolite pearl 2010. All of these have offline editors (virtual consoles, Pc based, Win8.1). Is there a visualizer that will allow me to use all these offline platforms, as well as direct DMX in (via dmx to usb hardware)??

And hopping for the best... is there a visualizer that will allow me to use these offline platforms as well as spit out a dmx show (as a back up).. In other words.... Program using the virtual console (viewing the show via visualizer)and/or re-program the visualizer/software to run the show if my board crashed??

Thank you!!

Andre....

 

[RickR]

Your comments imply a confusion. Visualizers have nothing to do with running a show. They are a virtual stage not a virtual console. That's the realm of the off-line/ simulator programs and whatever output devices you have. Getting output licenses for those boards can get expensive, especially for large rigs.

I don't do a lot of Visualization, but I prefer Capture. There is a lot of discussion here about that and many others. Start with http://www.controlbooth.com/threads/lighting-visualization-software.15187/#post145232

Independent Vis programs will connect with in a variety of protocols. It's usually easiest to use basic networking to connect 2 computers or a console and a computer with ArtNet or sACN.

Most Vis programs will let you build with minimal CAD functions with-in them. They are fine for basic layouts of a band and some "walls" to shine on. If you want to get detailed models to import then I recommend getting serious help. Complex 3D modeling is time consuming and you might be better off hiring someone else.