Isadora
Isadora combines a media-server engine for video and audio processing with a visual programming environment for playback and interactive work.
What Isadora is
Isadora combines a media-server engine for video and audio processing with a visual programming environment for playback and interactive work. It supports video playback and effects, multichannel audio, and real-time processing of video, lighting, sound and data. TroikaTronix describes uses such as show cueing, projection mapping, remote performance and sensor-driven installations. The node-based environment integrates JavaScript, GLSL and Python, while the Pythoner actor runs scripts and imports libraries. IzzyCast transmits video, audio and data between computers running Isadora, and the software can interface with other performance software and hardware. Version 4.5 supports VST effects and VSTi instruments on macOS and Windows. Demonstration Mode is free but cannot save changes. Isadora 4 supports 64-bit Windows 10–11 and macOS 10.14–26.x on Intel or Apple silicon. Paid options include a 17.50 USD 7-day rental, a 30.00 USD 30-day rental, a 199.00 USD yearly subscription and perpetual licenses.
Good
- Node-based visual programming
- Real-time video, lighting, sound and data
- JavaScript, GLSL and Python integration
- VST and VSTi plugin support
- GPU render engine
Watch out
- Demonstration Mode cannot save files
- Paid licenses have activation limits
- Online licenses need internet for activation
Who it suits
It suits performers, projection artists and installation creators working with interactive video, audio, lighting or sensor data. It also serves users who need node-based programming on macOS or Windows.
Verdict
Isadora brings media playback, processing and programming into one desktop environment. Its free demonstration mode allows use without saving, while paid rentals and licenses provide broader working options.
Plans and prices
From Isadora's own pricing page, checked 8 Oct 2026.
| Plan | Price | What it gives you |
|---|---|---|
| Isadora 7-Day Rental | $17.50, paid once | works with Isadora 3 and 4 · one computer at a time · US$17.50 |
| Isadora 30-Day Rental | $30, paid once | works with Isadora 3 and 4 · one computer at a time · US$30.00 |
| Isadora Yearly Subscription | $199 a year | activates Isadora 3 and/or 4 on up to two computers at a time · US$199.00 (billed every year) |
| Isadora 3 to Isadora 4 upgrade | $325, paid once | for existing Isadora 3 Perpetual or USB Key License holders · US$325.00 |
| Isadora 4 Perpetual | $725, paid once | two years of free updates · activates on up to two computers, runs on one at a time · US$725.00 |
| Isadora 4 USB Key | $875, paid once | two years of free updates · physical USB key · does not require internet connection · US$875.00 (US$725.00 license + US$150.00 USB key & shipping) |
The facts
Each one read from Isadora's own pages, with the date it was checked.
The company
- Company location
- TroikaTronix lists Mark Coniglio at Neue Schönhauser Straße 12, 10178 Berlin, Germany.checked 8 Oct 2026
- Headquarters
- Berlin, Germanychecked 28 Sep 2026
What it does
- Creative uses
- The maker describes uses including show cueing, projection mapping, remote performance, and sensor-driven installations.checked 8 Oct 2026
- Education
- The maker says more than 100 universities include Isadora in their curriculum and advertises a 50% discount for students and educators on its product page.checked 8 Oct 2026
- Integrations
- The maker describes IzzyCast for transmitting video, audio, and data between computers running Isadora, and says Isadora can interface with other performance software and hardware.checked 8 Oct 2026
- License activation
- Online subscription and rental licenses require an internet connection for initial activation; USB Key licenses do not require an internet connection.checked 8 Oct 2026
- Programming
- Isadora's node-based environment integrates JavaScript, GLSL, and Python, and its Pythoner actor supports script execution and library imports.checked 8 Oct 2026
- Purpose
- Isadora combines a media server video and audio processing engine with a visual programming environment for media playback and interactive work.checked 8 Oct 2026
- Security and privacy
- TroikaTronix's privacy notice says it uses technical and organizational measures under GDPR Article 32 to protect data confidentiality, integrity, and availability.checked 8 Oct 2026
- Support
- The maker provides a support site with ticket submission, license help, technical support articles, and tutorials.checked 8 Oct 2026
- Supported systems
- Isadora 4 supports 64-bit Windows 10 through 11 and macOS 10.14 through macOS 26.x on Intel or Apple silicon processors.checked 8 Oct 2026
- Video and sound
- Isadora supports video playback and effects, multichannel audio, and real-time processing of video, lighting, sound, and data.checked 8 Oct 2026
- VST support
- Isadora 4.5 supports VST audio effect and VSTi instrument plugins on macOS and Windows.checked 8 Oct 2026
Money
- Free use limit
- Demonstration Mode is free and permits use of the software, but saving changes to new or existing files is disabled.checked 8 Oct 2026
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