QLab for Windows is essential for any audio-visual professional using a Mac. To plan and carry out a seamless multimedia performance, QLab has everything you require, regardless of whether you’re working on a live theatre production, a music concert, or an installation.
We will provide all the details you need about this must-have tool and show you how to use QLab on Mac platforms. Continue reading to learn about some of the top Windows QLab alternatives and how to download QLab for Windows.
Contents
QLab Technical Specifications
| Name | QLab |
| Supported PC Version | macOS |
| Developer | Figure 53 |
| Category | Tools |
| Language | English |
| Downloads | 200,000,000+ |
| Security | Checked using VirusTotal |
| Rating | |
| Price | Free |
| In-App Purchases | $5 to $499 |
| Website | https://qlab.app/ |
What is QLab, and how does it work?
QLab is a software application for macOS that allows you to control audio, video, and lighting for live performances. It provides a user interface for creating and editing cues that can trigger audio and video playback, lighting changes, and other actions. Cues can be triggered manually or automatically and can be linked together to create complex sequences.
QLab app can be controlled by external devices like lighting consoles or foot pedals because it also accepts MIDI and OSC input. Furthermore, QLab offers a remote control tool that enables you to manage the software from an iPad or iPhone.
Does QLab work on Windows 10 PC?
QLab for Windows 10 is currently not accessible. MacOS computers are the only ones that support it. However, other comparable software options for Windows can be used to control QLab running on a Mac from a Windows PC. The alternatives mentioned below, such as Show Cue System and VSCO 2 Community Edition, can be used to control audio, video, and lighting on a Windows computer.
QLab Alternatives for Windows
Show Cue System
Show Cue System (SCS) is a widely used option for Windows users as an alternative to QLab. It offers similar features and capabilities but is also available on Windows. With SCS, you can organize and arrange all the required audio cues in the desired sequence.
You can also adjust each cue’s volume, pan, duration, and speaker output. Additionally, SCS can assign hotkeys for quick access to certain sounds.
VSCO 2
VSCO 2 is a prominent alternative for music producers and songwriters looking for a means to bring their work to life. This intriguing app, a “community edition” of the VSCO 2 library, presents high-quality orchestral model sounds that make your developments feel like a real orchestra created them.
Whether you’re a composer, film scorer, or music producer, VSCO 2 is enormously effective for completing realistic orchestral compositions with various sample models and virtual instruments. Plus, the software can be used as a standalone application or as a plugin within your digital audio workstation, such as Ableton Live or Pro Tools, providing the flexibility you need in your workflow.
LiveProfessor
LiveProfessor is a real-time audio processing software that can be used for live sound reinforcement and recording. It’s intended to function as a “virtual soundcheck” option. Before performing live, you can test and fine-tune your audio settings. Microphones, musical instruments, and audio interfaces are just a few of the audio sources that LiveProfessor can process.
The software is built on a modular system, where each module stands for a distinct type of audio processing, such as equalization, compression, and reverb. Custom audio processing chains can be made by connecting the modules in any order and any number.
GrandVJ
GrandVJ is a Windows program that enables live video mixing and composition. It is frequently utilized in video installations, VJing, and live performances. You can mix numerous video layers with the software, add effects, and manage video playback in real time.
It supports various video formats, including video files, live cameras, and Syphon/Spout inputs. GrandVJ even has a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to create and edit video compositions.
ProPresenter
ProPresenter lets you make and show multimedia content like songs, videos, and images. Here, you can control each layer’s playback while creating multiple media layers. Due to this, complex presentations with various components can be created effortlessly.
ProPresenter even allows you to import and edit PowerPoint and Keynote presentations. Moreover, it supports MIDI and OSC input, allowing it to be controlled by external devices such as lighting consoles or foot pedals.
Lightjams
Real-time lighting effects creation and control are both possible with Lightjams. It is frequently used in stage, live performances, and architectural lighting. You can control DMX-compatible lighting equipment like LED lights, moving heads, and scanners with Lightjams.
Additionally, you can use this tool to operate DMX-capable equipment like fog and haze generators. The user-friendly interface of Lightjams makes it simple to add and edit lighting effects. You can even use the built-in scripting engine to create unique effects here.
Ableton Live
Ableton Live is a digital audio workstation (DAW) and music-production tool that’s available for both Windows and macOS. Both live performance and studio production are intended uses for this tool. You can compose, record, edit, and produce music through Ableton Live using various virtual instruments, audio effects, and MIDI sequencing.
Ableton Live’s interface is divided into two main views. The Session View is designed for live performance and improvisation, allowing you to trigger and manipulate audio clips and MIDI notes in real-time. The Arrangement View is designed for more traditional linear songwriting and recording, allowing you to arrange and edit your music in a timeline-based interface.
How to use QLab on Mac?
Live performances can be controlled with QLab on a Mac for audio, video, and lighting. A general guide to using QLab on Mac is provided below:
- Download and install Qlab from the website and open QLab on your Mac.
- Create a new workspace by clicking on the “New Workspace” button in the “File” menu.
- Add cues to the workspace by clicking on the “New Cue” button in the “Cue” menu or dragging audio, video, and lighting files into the workspace.
- Set up the triggers for each cue by clicking on the “Triggers” tab in the inspector. Triggers can be set to manual, timecode, or MIDI/OSC.
- Link cues together by clicking and dragging the “Next” button in the inspector.
- Preview and test the cues by clicking on the “Preview” button in the “Control” menu.
- Start the show by clicking on the “Go” button in the “Control” menu.
- To control QLab from an iPad or iPhone, you can download QLab Remote from the App Store and connect it to your computer via Wi-Fi.
FAQs
Is QLab app free?
The website offers a limited free version of QLab that can be downloaded. You can choose to buy the full version if you want more features than the free version offers.
Is QLab available for Mac?
Yes, the QLab app is exclusively made for macOS and can be downloaded from the official website.
Is QLab safe to download?
Downloading the QLab app for PC from the official website or other reliable sources should be safe since it is a well-known program that is frequently used in the industry.
Conclusion
QLab for Windows is an essential tool for any audio-visual professional who wants to create and execute a seamless multimedia performance. Its powerful cue-based system offers a wide range of features for playing back sound, video, and lighting cues, and controlling DMX lighting fixtures and other show control devices. So head over to its website right now and download QLab on Mac. Let us know if you have any further queries in the comments below.