CSC & SCS

PC based software, used in some venues.  Each has some unique features.

Side-note: Due to a cunning move by Apple allowing Mac’s to dual-boot between Mac OS X and Windows, theatres are increasingly investing in Mac computers as the one computer can accomodate designers who want to use QLab or SFX, rather than having to buy a Mac and a PC.

Ableton Live

Mac or PC-based software. Very sophisitcated performance software with very extensive real-time control options like a sampler. Only rudimentary cuelist functions, for example no function to fade out a non-looping sound. But very useful for more performance-responsive operating. Can be MIDI controlled from SFX, QLab, etc for integrating. Used extensively in the Dance community.

Computer systems

Stage Research SFX v5.6

Allows multiple cue-lists triggering MIDI-devices and playing multiple audio stream off hard-disk, with up to 16 audio outputs. Probably the most popular playback system from 2003-ish to 2009-ish. PC only.

Stage Research SFX v6

An updated version of SFX recently released with improved audio synchronisation and more audio outputs, but not adopted widely in UK industry due to some “programming quirks” and.....

Figure 53 QLab v2

Has rapidly developed a large user base partly due to being Mac based, but also due to the basic version being given away for free. QLab has matured considerably and has a lot of similiar features to SFX, though advanced features require purchase of additional licenses. Has inbuilt video playback features. Rapidly becoming my software of choice.