There are several Linux tools available for digital artists. However, those are mostly for image manipulation or drawing.

So, how can you blend and mix video clips or computer-generated graphics in real-time on Linux?

This is mostly a use-case if you are presenting something live for a VJ session or concerts and conferences.

vimix sounds like a tool that can come in handy for the job.

vimix: Free & Open-Source Video Live Mixer

vimix screenshot

Of course, video editors should be preferred if you want to edit a video and apply several post-processing effects.

But, if you want real-time video clip manipulation for a good extent, vimix is a tool that you can try. It is an open-source tool which also happens to be the successor of GLMixer which is no longer maintained.

Here, I will highlight some of the key features that it offers.

Features of vimix

vimix screenshot 1

You get a huge set of abilities with this tool. If you are new to using such a tool, this could prove to be overwhelming.

  • Mixing multiple video clips
  • Controlling opacity using a simple slider for multiple active clips
  • Fade videos to apply smooth transition when playing multiple videos as a cross-playlist
  • Folder-based session
  • Geometry feature to manipulate/re-size source clips
  • Incredibly useful layer option to add three or more videos at a time
  • Apply post-processing effects to computer-generated graphics
  • Multiple blending modes
  • Ability to clone sources
  • Tweak the texture of the sources
  • Multiple cropping options

Install vimix on Linux

It is only available as a snap package right now. So, if you want to install it on any Linux distribution of your choice, download it from the Snap store or your software center if it has integrated snap enabled.

sudo snap install vimix

You can also refer to our snap guide if you need help to set it up. If interesting, you can compile it yourself or explore more about it in its GitHub page.

vimix

Closing Thoughts

vimix is a tool that caters the need of specific use-cases. And, that is what it excels at.

It is good to see the availability of such a tool tailored for live video jockeys and other professionals using Linux.

It is worth noting that I’m not an expert to work with this tool, so I just fiddled around with the common operations to control opacity, fade videos, and add effects to the source.

I encourage you to explore more, and please don’t hesitate to let me know your thoughts in the comments below!

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