DMX lighting control: which solution fits?
There are several ways to control DMX lights to music. Which one fits depends on whether you want to program and operate the lights yourself, whether you play with a laptop and DJ software, or whether the show should come out of the music on its own.
Lighting console
A hardware console gives full control: you build scenes, sequences and effects yourself and run them live. It fits when someone operates the lights during the event and knows how.
Built-in sound mode of the fixtures
Many party lights have a microphone and programs of their own. It costs nothing extra, but each fixture works on its own, without a shared show and usually only on level or bass.
QLC+
Free, open-source lighting control for Windows, macOS, Linux and the Raspberry Pi. Very extensive; you set up scenes, sequences and control surfaces yourself. It fits when you want to invest time in programming and have a computer at the rig.
SoundSwitch
Software for Windows and macOS that creates light shows from the beatgrids of DJ software such as Serato DJ, VirtualDJ or Engine DJ. It fits when you play with a laptop and one of these DJ programs.
GrooveDMX
An Android app that listens to the music itself, through the microphone or the built-in player, and drives a show from it without programming. No computer or DJ software needed; around 4,900 fixture profiles are built in. It fits party rooms, parties and club events, hobby DJs and anyone who does not want to stand at a console. Limits: Android only, and if you want to build every scene yourself, a console or QLC+ serves you better.
Get it on Google PlayDMX light show to music with an Android app →
Details of other products are based on their makers’ and project pages, without guarantee. All trademarks belong to their respective owners.
As of October 2026