Show Cue System

Show Cue System is a specialized application for the playback and management of audio, video, and image signals in live theatrical productions. The system organizes all necessary cues into specific sequences with precise control over levels, panning, duration, and output device selection.

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• Multichannel audio playback. This function plays audio files in WAV, MP3, WMA, AAC, and OGG formats with configurable start and end points, volume and pan adjustments, fade-in and fade-out times, and specific output device selection. Each audio cue can be routed to different outputs with independent parameters.
• Video and image control. Handles AVI, WMF, ASF, MP4 video files and image formats with the ability to project onto up to 4 external monitors. Includes configuration of loop points, transitions between images, and control of visual parameters during the presentation.
• Playlists. Creates sequences of audio files for pre-show music and intermissions with consecutive or random playback. Playlists allow automatic cross-fading between tracks and centralized control of all musical programming.
• Level change cues. Dynamically modifies the volume and panning of previously executed cues over a specified period of time. Changes can be programmed with custom fade curves and precise timing.
• External device control. Sends MIDI, RS232, and Telnet messages to external equipment for synchronization and automation. The function integrates audio and video equipment with lighting consoles and other production systems.
• SFR cues. Stops, releases loops, or applies fade out to running cues via specific commands. Control can be applied to individual cues or entire groups with a single command.
• Markers and notes. Inserts reminders and annotations at specific points in the cue list for operator reference. Notes contain information about activities not related to cues but important for the production.
• Jump cues. Allows jumping to new positions within a playing cue or setting up cue loops. The function facilitates dynamic reordering during live performances.
• Live input. Captures audio from microphones and instruments connected to the system for real-time processing and mixing. The input signal can be integrated with pre-recorded cues.
• External program execution. Launches external applications like PowerPoint from the cue list with precise timing. The function expands the system's capabilities to other presentation platforms.
• Integrated cue editor. Provides tools to create and modify cue lists with detailed parameter adjustments. The editor displays complete information about cue type, status, trigger, file type, and assigned device.
• Time profiles. Configures time-based profiles for cues with different duration and timing settings. Profiles allow precise organization of complex temporal events.
• Hotkey control. Assigns commands to specific keyboard keys for immediate activation of critical cues. Assignments are customizable according to operator requirements.
• MTC synchronization. Generates and receives MIDI Time Code for coordination with other studio and stage equipment. Synchronization keeps all temporal elements of the production aligned.

The development of Show Cue System began in 2002 by Mike Daniell, who continues as the lead developer. The application is programmed in C++ with specific components for audio and video handling.

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