Questions, answered.
Is SMERGE Mac-only?
Yes — macOS 13+ on Apple Silicon. Core features like app-audio capture (ScreenCaptureKit) and Syphon are macOS technologies, and targeting one platform keeps performance tight.
Does it work with Resolume / MadMapper / VDMX / OBS?
Yes, in both directions. SMERGE publishes its output over Syphon and can receive Syphon feeds as a source, so it slots into an existing rig as a generator, an effects stage, or the main mixer.
Which AI providers does the shader generator support? Do I need an API key?
Bring your own key for Claude, ChatGPT (OpenAI), or Gemini — or run completely free and offline with a local Ollama model. Keys are stored locally on your machine and requests go directly to your chosen provider.
Can it control lights?
Yes. SMERGE outputs Art-Net DMX512, so the same LFOs, envelopes, and audio bands driving your visuals can drive fixtures over your network.
How do I use TouchOSC (or Lemur / Max) with SMERGE?
SMERGE listens for OSC on localhost by default. To control it from a tablet, enable LAN access in Settings → OSC, then point TouchOSC at your Mac’s IP and the port shown there.
Where do my presets live?
Everything is in ~/Documents/SMERGE/ — presets (.smx, plain JSON), Save & Collect bundles (.smxz), MIDI maps, and canvas recordings. Back up that one folder and you have your whole rig.
How do I share a set with someone else?
Use Save & Collect. It packs the preset plus every media asset it references — clips, audio, custom shaders, mappings — into a single .smxz file. The other person opens it and gets your exact set.
What does the beta cost? What happens at launch?
The beta is free. SMERGE will be a paid app at commercial release — beta testers will hear about launch pricing first, and feedback that shapes the app is the best way to earn our gratitude (and it will be remembered).
Something else? Write to hello@smergevj.comor check the manual — it covers everything in depth.