Is ill Visuals free to use?

Yes. The free demo includes 100+ shaders, 3 layers, and all core features. Output includes a small watermark. Upgrade to Pro to remove the watermark and unlock unlimited layers, VJ mode, MIDI, and all premium effects.

Do I need coding experience?

No. Everything is visual and interactive. Pick shaders from the library, drag effects onto layers, and adjust parameters with sliders. AI generation lets you describe what you want in plain English.

What projectors work with ill Visuals?

Any projector that connects to your computer via HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB-C. ill Visuals outputs to any display your operating system recognizes, including multiple projectors simultaneously.

Can I use it for live shows?

Absolutely. ill Visuals was built for live performance. The VJ clip launcher, Performer keyboard mode, beat sequencer, MIDI mapping, and wireless mobile control are all designed for real-time use on stage.

Does it work with MIDI controllers?

Yes. Any MIDI controller works out of the box. Use learn mode to map any knob, fader, button, or pad to any parameter in the software.

Is there a Mac version?

Yes. ill Visuals runs on both Windows 10+ and macOS 12+. Download the installer for your platform from the download page.

What file formats are supported?

Videos: MP4, MOV, WebM, GIF. Images: PNG, JPG, WebP. 3D models: GLTF, GLB, FBX. Point clouds: PLY, .splat. Vector: SVG. Shaders: ISF/GLSL.

resource8 min read

Best MIDI Controllers for VJ Performance in 2026

Guide to choosing MIDI controllers for VJ performance and projection mapping. Recommendations for ill Visuals, Resolume, and live visual software.

Published February 10, 2026Updated March 28, 2026

Best MIDI Controllers for VJ Performance

A MIDI controller transforms VJ software from a click-and-drag experience into a hands-on instrument. Here are the best options for live visual performance with ill Visuals.

Top Picks

Akai APC Mini MK2 — Best Overall

64 velocity-sensitive pads (perfect for ill Visuals' VJ mode grid)

9 faders for parameter control

Compact, bus-powered

~$90

Novation Launchpad X — Best for Clip Triggering

64 RGB pads with velocity

Excellent for triggering VJ clips

Strong integration ecosystem

~$170

Korg nanoKONTROL2 — Best Budget

8 faders + 8 knobs + transport controls

Ultra-portable

Great for shader parameter control

~$60

Akai APC40 MK2 — Best Full-Featured

Faders, knobs, and pads in one unit

Designed for clip-based performance

LED feedback

~$300

MIDI Mapping in ill Visuals

ill Visuals features a learn mode for instant MIDI mapping:

Right-click any parameter → "MIDI Learn"

Move your controller knob/fader/pad

Done — the mapping is saved with your project

Map anything: shader parameters, layer opacity, effect intensity, VJ clip triggers, BPM, crossfader position.

Tips for VJ MIDI Setup

Label your mappings — Put tape labels on faders for quick reference during shows

Save controller presets — ill Visuals saves MIDI mappings per project

Use velocity — Map pad velocity to effect intensity for expressive control

Combine with mobile — Use MIDI for main control, phone for warp adjustment

Download ill Visuals to start mapping your MIDI controller today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What MIDI controller should I use for VJ software?

The Akai APC Mini MK2 (~$90) is the best overall MIDI controller for VJ performance with its 64-pad grid and faders. For budget setups, the Korg nanoKONTROL2 (~$60) works well. ill Visuals supports any MIDI controller with its learn mode.