[ANSWERED] ​Looking for MacBook Pro recommendation

[nandada]

Hello All, I need to upgrade my older MacBook Pro laptops to keep up with the programming I am doing. I'm also running my Isadora stages via syphon through MadMapper in order to map the stage rather than individual projectors. I often use a number of projectors in Isadora to create complex layered imagery. Mapping the "projectors" in these patches onto one stage is impossible. So for now this is the hack I've come up with

I'd like to be able to output at least 3 Isadora Stages to three physical projectors for my installations. I'd love to hear what experiences folks doing long term video installations have had with the new MacBook pros and whether there is a graphics card or configuration you recommend. I'm prepared to go "whole hog" but want to be reasonably sure it will all work. If anyone out there is also using MadMapper for their final mapping I'd love to hear your input as well. It would be so great if we could map the stages in Isadora-running both programs via syphon has complicated my life but also proven necessary. 

[Woland]

@nandada

@mark is currently running eight displays (though the computer only sees them as three because of the specialized hardware) using a newer single MacBook Pro M1 MAX: https://community.troikatronix.com/topic/8326/using-bm-hdmi-sdi-converters-with-th2go-dp-edition/9

[cambrucedavis]

I've been very happy with my M1 Max MacBook Pro (haven't tried the M2 styles yet). I find the intergrated graphics card super powerful and has been quite able to handle most of what I've thrown at it.

I'd also suggest looking at the MacStudio! They are great little machines. I got a base model MacStudio with the M1 Max last May and put it into a show running 3 projectors and 3 TV monitors from a DataPath as well as taking timecode from a Qlab rig and sending OSC commands to a few other devices and it was more than equal to the task.

I think as long as you get an M1 Max you should be able to accomplish what you're after. Stay away from the M1 Pro as the Pro seems to only be capable of 2 outputs, but the Max should be able to get at least 4 outputs...

Cheers,

Cam,

[Eva]

@nandada

Hi, I am using a Mac Studio (the small of thd 2 standard versions). And just like other people with M1 Macs, its doing everything very smooth:) For me it was the best quality for the least amount of money that was easily accessible time wise, and with plenty of space to plug in whatever needed. I have bought a portable monitor that doesnt take up much space, so I can have everything in a normal size 28L backpack... I have only so far been running it with 2 projectors. 

Running multiple video surfaces on 3d objects moving is no problem. I use different kinds of live input, and so fare it us running well:) My boundary for what I imagine combining and layering in Isadora has moved to a new dimension:) When I think I am pushing it, there is no sign so farof that reality:

All the best

Eva)