FAQ
Frequently asked questions about the MVP.
What is the MVP?
The MVP (Multimedia Visual Performer) is a hardware device that triggers video playback and DMX lighting clips from MIDI signals, USB keyboard input, or timecode. It is designed for live performances -- concerts, touring productions, worship services, theatre, corporate events, and any scenario where video and lighting need to be triggered reliably and instantly.
What comes in the box?
MVP unit in a travel case
USB-C to USB-A cable
USB-C to USB-C cable
DC power adapter
4x M2 mounting screws (VESA compatible)
How much storage does the MVP have?
100GB of internal storage with 10GB reserved for system operations (90GB usable for your content).
4K video (H.264)
~10 hours
1080p video (H.264)
~27 hours
1080p All-Intra (H.264)
~5 hours
Actual capacity depends on codec, bitrate, and compression.
What video formats are supported?
Codecs: H.264, H.265, VP8, VP9, MJPEG
File types: .mp4, .mov, .m4v, .mkv, .webm
Still images: .jpg, .jpeg (displayed as persistent stills)
Max resolution: Up to 4K
See Supported File Formats for full details.
Does the MVP play audio?
No. The MVP does not play audio from video files. The MVP plays video only -- audio streams in video files are ignored during playback. The 3.5mm audio input is used exclusively for LTC (timecode) reception.
What is DMX / ArtNet?
DMX (DMX512) is the standard protocol for controlling stage lighting fixtures -- setting brightness, color, position, and other parameters by sending values (0-255) on numbered channels.
ArtNet is a protocol that carries DMX data over Ethernet networks instead of dedicated DMX cables. The MVP outputs ArtNet data on its Ethernet port, which an ArtNet node converts to DMX for your fixtures.
The MVP supports up to 16 DMX universes (8,192 channels) simultaneously.
Do I need a computer to use the MVP?
No. The MVP can operate standalone with just a MIDI controller (USB or 5-pin DIN) or USB keyboard for triggering. You'll need a computer to access the web UI for configuration, but once configured, the MVP runs independently.
You'll need the DC power adapter when running without a computer (USB-C from a computer provides both power and data).
How do I stop video/lighting playback?
Send MIDI Note 0 on the video or lighting channel. This is the dedicated blackout command:
Video: Loads a blank video (black screen)
Lighting: Loads the DMX blackout clip (all channels to 0)
Stopping your DAW does not automatically stop the MVP playback. It continues playing the last triggered clip. You can also use CC #110 with value 100 (if CC Trigger Mode is enabled) to trigger blackout.
Can I restart a clip from the beginning?
Yes. Triggering the same MIDI note while a clip is already playing restarts it from the beginning instantly.
How long does setup take?
Basic setup (connect, upload videos, assign to MIDI notes, trigger from a DAW) takes under 10 minutes. The Quick Start Guide walks through it.
More complex setups with timecode sync, lighting, and multiple slots take longer depending on your show complexity.
What hardware do I need alongside the MVP?
Required:
HDMI display (for video output)
MIDI source: computer with DAW, MIDI controller, or USB keyboard
For lighting:
ArtNet node (converts ArtNet to DMX)
Ethernet cable
DMX fixtures
For timecode:
LTC source + 3.5mm audio cable, or MTC source + MIDI connection
Can I use the MVP with multiple displays?
The MVP has a single HDMI output. For multiple displays, use an HDMI splitter or video distribution amplifier. All displays show the same content.
Can I control video and lighting independently?
Yes. Video and lighting use separate MIDI channels (configurable, default: video on Channel 1, lighting on Channel 3), separate configuration slots (A-E), and separate clip assignments. You can trigger video and lighting simultaneously with different clips on each channel. Slot switching via CC #119 is also independent per channel.
What is All-Intra encoding? Do I need it?
All-Intra encoding (GOP=1) makes every frame a complete image, enabling frame-accurate seeking. You need it for timecode synchronization (so the MVP can jump to any exact frame). You don't need it for regular MIDI triggering (clips always start from the beginning).
All-Intra files are 2-5x larger than standard encoding. The MVP can convert files on-device using its built-in hardware encoder (H.265), or you can export with GOP=1 from your editing software.
See All-Intra Video & Timecode Sync for details.
What does the physical Status Display show?
The Status Display on the front of the MVP has three views:
HOME: HDMI status, Ethernet IP, Wi-Fi SSID, firmware version
LIVE MIDI: Last triggered note/key for video and lighting, playing filename, with flash animation
LIVE TC: SMPTE timecode clock (7-segment display), FPS status, playing files
The view switches automatically based on activity. Notifications appear for HDMI/MIDI device connections.
How often are MVP updates released?
Updates are released several times per year with new features and improvements. The MVP checks for updates when connected to Wi-Fi and shows a notification in the Dashboard when one is available. The Status Display also shows a pulsing "UPDATE AVAILABLE" banner.
Why is the MVP a hardware device and not software?
Reliability for live shows. The MVP is a dedicated appliance that:
Loads to a known state every time
Doesn't share resources with other applications
Won't be interrupted by OS updates, notifications, or other software
Has hardware-acceleration with minimal latency
Can be powered from a single USB cable and fits in your pocket
A laptop running video software can do similar things, but a dedicated device eliminates the variables that cause live show problems.
How big is the MVP?
The MVP measures 1.25" x 6" x 3.3" (H x W x D) -- about the size of a smart phone, but thicker. It fits easily in any bag. The unit is VESA compatible with the included M2 screws for permanent mounting.
Where can I get help?
Documentation: You're reading it!
Email: [email protected]
Related Pages
Quick Start Guide -- Get started in 5 minutes
Troubleshooting -- Common issues and solutions
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