entity vs Onlyview

Entity is a C++ media server for live shows and installations, combining multi-layer video playback, projection mapping, and OSC control. It decodes and composites video in real time, offers frame-accurate seeking, and supports ProRes, HAP, and PNG sequences. Projection tools include anchor-point calibration, soft-edge blending, and persistent display identification through EDID. Its timeline handles clip, object-animation, and generative layers, with clips running at native frame rates. Layers can use ordered shader chains with nine built-in effects or custom HLSL effect packs. Entity supports inbound and outbound OSC and works with Bitfocus Companion for show control. The Community plan costs nothing and is GPLv3. Commercial shows may run without redistributing the engine. Entity is pre-release, with no signed installers; installation currently requires building from source. It runs on 64-bit Windows 10 or 11 with a DirectX 12 GPU. Audio playback is unsupported, and macOS and Linux ports have no ETA.

Onlyview is media server software for video mapping, playback, generative content and show control on Linux and Windows. It runs on the customer’s own machines rather than requiring a proprietary hardware box. Mapping tools cover photogrammetric preparation, 3D calibration, screen deformation and automated softedge blending. For LED canvases, it supports custom layouts, synchronized playback across machines, and main or backup output. The product describes frame-accurate synchronized playback of 8K content across multiple machines, with unlimited timelines and layers. Built-in integrations include Notch, Unreal and Unity, while tracking can use Blacktrax, LPM, Optitrack, Lidar and AI vision. Show-control functions schedule, monitor and run long-term installations. The homepage says one operator can run one timeline across more than 100 projectors. Licensing is offered per output, perpetually or by week, with pricing on request. HTTP, DMX, sACN, Art-Net and PJLink support extend automation, lighting and projector control.