Plane9

What Plane9 is

Plane9 is a free Windows 3D music visualizer and sound-responsive screensaver that can also run in a standalone window or as a VR visualizer. It offers 250 scenes that can be combined into more than 10,000 views, along with 39 transition scenes. Plane9 responds to audio from computer sources such as Spotify and iTunes and can analyze sound from recording devices. Its download page lists OpenVR/HTC Vive and Oculus Rift support. A studio application can record videos from the visualizer, and the software supports multiple monitors and sound analysis from up to 18 speakers. The listed free download costs nothing and supports Windows 7, 8, 8.1, and 10. A graphics card capable of OpenGL 3.3 is the minimum; the FAQ recommends a recent OpenGL 4.0 or newer card. Audio analysis does not work with unprocessed digital audio such as DTS. Commercial use of scenes and generated content requires a commercial use license.

Who it suits

Plane9 suits Windows users who want audio-reactive visuals as a screensaver, window, or VR visualizer. Its multiple-monitor support may also suit users working with several displays.

Limits

Plane9 is free for Windows and requires at least an OpenGL 3.3-capable graphics card. Audio analysis does not work with unprocessed digital audio such as DTS, and commercial use of scenes or generated content requires a commercial-use license.

Getting started

1. Open the Plane9 website
2. Download the free Windows application
3. Install it on a system with an OpenGL 3.3-capable graphics card
4. Choose window, screensaver, or VR visualizer mode
5. Connect audio from a computer source or recording device
6. Use the studio application when you want to record visualizer video

Verdict

Plane9 offers several ways to display and record music-reactive visuals, with a large scene collection and VR support. Check graphics compatibility and the commercial-use license terms before relying on it for a paid project.