Enhance Your Lighting Design with GrandMA2 Plugin

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Understanding the Macro Layout Views
3. Checking Presets and Groups
4. Checking Storage Space
5. Starting the Macro Plugin
6. Entering Preset Type and Colors
7. Entering Group Numbers
8. Setting Starting Spots
9. Pairing and Background
10. Checking the Generated Macros
11. Setting Appearance Macros
12. Uninstalling Macros
13. Creating a Layout View
14. Assigning Macros to the Layout View
15. Adding Fade Times to Macros
16. Conclusion

Introduction

In this article, we will discuss how to create a grid of macros using a plugin that can control the color of fixtures during a live show. This plugin can generate macros based on desired groups and colors, eliminating the need to have them in the live programmer. We will go through the step-by-step process, including checking presets and groups, ensuring sufficient storage space, entering preset types and colors, pairing and background settings, and checking the generated macros. We will also cover how to set appearance macros, uninstall macros, create a layout view, assign macros to the layout view, and even add fade times to the macros. So let's dive in and explore the world of macro layout views and how they can enhance your lighting control during a performance.

Understanding the Macro Layout Views

Macro layout views are a popular technique used by lighting designers to simplify the control of fixtures during a live show. By creating a grid of macros, you can easily switch between different color settings for specific groups of fixtures without having to navigate through your live programmer. This not only saves time but also ensures smooth transitions between different lighting cues.

Checking Presets and Groups

Before we begin creating the macro grid, it's important to check the presets and groups that we will be using. We need to ensure that the desired presets and groups are available in the view and that they are named appropriately for the macros. If necessary, we can temporarily change the names of the presets and groups, but remember to change them back once the macros have been generated.

Checking Storage Space

To create the macro grid, we will be using macros and sequence pools. It's essential to check the available storage space for both macros and sequences. Start by organizing your macros and sequences by type for easy access. Make sure you have enough space available to accommodate the macros by selecting a starting slot that provides sufficient room. If there isn't enough space, the plugin will prompt you to enter a new number.

Starting the Macro Plugin

With the presets, groups, and storage space checked, we are now ready to start the macro plugin. The plugin will ask for the preset type, which can be entered either as the preset name or the corresponding number. Currently, the plugin supports only the stock presets included with the software, but future releases might include custom preset types as well.

Entering Preset Type and Colors

Once the plugin prompts for the preset type, enter the desired type or number. The next step is to enter the color entries, which require the pool item numbers. Start by entering the number of the first color, followed by the subsequent colors in your desired order. You can easily navigate through the entries by simply hitting "Enter" without providing any input.

Entering Group Numbers

After entering the colors, the plugin will ask for the group numbers. Similar to the color entries, enter the pool item numbers for each group in the desired order. Again, hit "Enter" without providing input to move to the next section once all the group numbers have been entered.

Setting Starting Spots

In this step, we need to specify the starting sequence and macro spots. Enter the desired numbers for both, ensuring they correspond to the available space and organization of your sequences and macros. Once entered, hit "Enter" to proceed.

Pairing and Background

The plugin will now complete the pairing and background process. This step ensures that the macros and sequences are properly linked and set the required appearance macros. Allow the plugin to complete this process, and then check the spot where the macros were saved to see the generated grid.

Checking the Generated Macros

After the plugin has finished generating the macros, you can check the spot where they were saved. Here, you will find a grid of color macros along with other accompanying items. Take a moment to review the macros, ensuring that they correspond to the desired color outputs on the stage.

Setting Appearance Macros

To ensure a consistent appearance, we will set the appearance macros. By clicking on each macro and dialing in the desired color, we can match the macros to the color they will be outputting on stage. This step ensures that the macros and pool items themselves are visually aligned.

Uninstalling Macros

If you decide to make changes or no longer require the generated macros, you can simply use the uninstall macro to delete them. Be cautious when using this macro, as it will remove all the generated sequences and macros without confirmation. Future releases might include a safety feature to prevent accidental deletion.

Creating a Layout View

To make use of the generated macros, we need to create a layout view. If you don't have any layouts generated yet, edit an empty layout pool item and set it as the layout view. This will serve as the canvas for assigning the macros.

Assigning Macros to the Layout View

Once you have the layout view set up, select the layout pool item and label it accordingly. Then, navigate to the macro screen and assign the macros to the layout view. This step will ensure that the macros are accessible and can be easily controlled during the live show. Arrange the macros in a grid format, adjust the spacing as needed, and ensure they are visually appealing.

Adding Fade Times to Macros

To avoid abrupt changes in color, it is helpful to add fade times to the macros. This can be achieved by adding another set of macros that incorporate fade times for smoother transitions between colors. This will enhance the overall visual experience and create a more professional lighting display.

Conclusion

Creating a grid of macros using the plugin discussed in this article can greatly streamline your workflow and improve the control of fixtures during a live show. By following the step-by-step process and ensuring presets, groups, and storage space requirements are met, you can easily generate macros that provide seamless color control. Additionally, utilizing layout views, assigning macros, and incorporating fade times will further enhance your lighting design. Explore the possibilities of macro layout views and elevate your lighting control capabilities.