entity

What entity is

Entity is a C++ media server for live shows and installations, built around multi-layer video playback, projection mapping, and OSC control. It decodes and composites video in real time, supports frame-accurate seeking, and handles ProRes, HAP, and PNG sequences. Projection tools include anchor-point calibration, soft-edge blending, and persistent display identification by EDID. Its timeline combines clip, object-animation, and generative layers, with clips playing at their native frame rates. Each layer can use an ordered shader chain with nine built-in effects or custom HLSL effect packs.

Entity supports inbound and outbound OSC and pairs with Bitfocus Companion for show control. It is aimed at projection-mapping artists, theatre and festival video technicians, museums, galleries, and themed entertainment. The Community plan is free under GPLv3, and the FAQ says running shows with Entity without redistributing the engine is unrestricted commercial use. Entity is pre-release, and signed binary installers have not shipped; the current route is to build it from source. It requires 64-bit Windows 10 or 11 and a DirectX 12 GPU. macOS and Linux ports are on the roadmap without an ETA. Audio playback is not yet supported, and audio tracks in source files are ignored. Entity is local-first; cloud rendering, remote playback, and SaaS dashboards are not on its roadmap.

Who it suits

Entity suits projection-mapping artists and video technicians working in theatre, festivals, museums, galleries, or themed entertainment. It is also relevant to teams that need layered playback, OSC control, and show control through Bitfocus Companion on a supported Windows system.

Limits

The Community plan is free and includes the full media server features. Entity is pre-release, and the current install path is building from source; audio playback is not supported.

Getting started

1. Visit https://entitymedia.art/ for the project.
2. Use a 64-bit Windows 10 or 11 system with a DirectX 12 GPU.
3. Build Entity from source; signed binary installers have not shipped.
4. Use the free Community plan under GPLv3.

Verdict

Pick Entity if you need a local media server for layered show playback, projection mapping, and OSC control, and can build it from source on a supported Windows machine. Look elsewhere if audio playback or a shipped installer is essential, or if you need macOS or Linux now.