DirectOut Launches Native Companion Plugin

DirectOut has announced the release of its native plugin for Bitfocus' Companion, marking a significant step forward in the company’s commitment to third-party integration.

The development is the result of a collaboration between DirectOut, its German distributor sphereo, and experienced Companion module programmer Dorian Meid.

Compatible with Companion version 4.0.0 or later, the new plugin automatically detects DirectOut’s PRODIGY and MAVEN Series devices. It can be used with any Stream Deck hardware interface, offering enhanced control through fully programmable presets and parameters.

Companion, an open-source control-surface software widely used across live and broadcast environments, enables operators to manage multiple devices with or without a physical interface. Users can programme buttons for anything from simple commands to complex, multi-step sequences, creating a customisable interface designed to simplify workflows and reduce operational guesswork.

DirectOut's plugin provides access to most functions of the PRODIGY and MAVEN platforms, including in/out routing, configuration and status reporting such as EARS. Each parameter-control features a 'learn' button, allowing the module to read the current parameter and its value - particularly useful for adding commands not included in presets without needing knowledge of the underlying control protocol. The Action Recorder makes it possible to capture complex operations for quick triggering.

The plugin also works with Companion's web-admin emulator, enabling operators to trigger actions without setting up hardware controllers. Stream Deck button layouts can be tailored for specific applications, with pages saved for easy recall. A suite of presets is included in the module, offering starting points that can be customised within the configuration.

Claudio Becker-Foss, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of DirectOut, said the company is eager to further champion cross-platform compatibility, noting strong industry enthusiasm following feedback at September's IBC.

"Our company mission has always been to develop streamlined, reliable and flexible audio solutions, whatever the application. Our new Companion plugin is a great example of the power of third-party collaboration to help us reach that goal and deliver the best possible results for our end users, creating a seamless integration experience for their projects."

The DirectOut Companion plugin has been released under the MIT open-source licence and is available to download from the Bitfocus Companion repository on GitHub.

www.directout.eu