Media servers play a crucial role in modern media production, serving various purposes in fields such as film, television programs, live events, and performances. These high-performance and versatile media servers empower production teams to create virtually anything with media. In this blog, we will introduce high-performance media servers and delve into their individual features and advantages.

Each company provides unique features and benefits, offering a plethora of options for production teams to choose from. Selection can vary depending on the project's objectives and requirements, and the performance and features of media servers significantly impact the success of productions. These media servers have become essential elements for delivering professional visual performances in various fields, including live events, performances, advertising, museum exhibitions, and they continue to evolve to offer even better media experiences.

Disguise

Disguise is recognized as a global leader in live events, virtual production, and immersive experiences. Its media server lineup, combined with Designer software, specializes in real-time rendering, projection mapping, and XR (Extended Reality) support, and is widely used by world-class artists and major events.

The latest hardware for 2025-2026 includes the GX 3+ (flagship model with 96GB VRAM for enhanced Notch 1.0 deterministic performance), the VX range (such as VX 4+ for scalable playback), and the newly introduced software-only X1. At ISE 2026, Disguise showcased the GX 3+, X1, new projection mapping tools, and the AI workflow assistant (Ask AId3n), continuing to lead the industry.

• Exceptional GPU performance for ultra-high-resolution & generative visuals (Notchmarks up ~175%)
• Real-time media editing, XR compositing, and ultra-low-latency playback
• Intuitive Designer interface with strong API & plugin extensibility
• Improved accessibility with software-only X1 option
• Premium hardware (GX/VX series) at a high price point

AV Stumpfl

AV Stumpfl’s PIXERA series is renowned as a specialized solution for projection mapping, large-scale display management, and real-time media processing. Its strengths include efficient mapping technology based on the Wings Engine and multi-output support, and it is reliably used in theaters, museums, exhibitions, and live events.

The latest models unveiled at ISE 2026, PIXERA four GEN2 (and GEN2 RS), are the flagship lineup, featuring significant performance improvements over previous generations and the introduction of a new Product Configurator for easier customization. The software is transitioning to year-based updates (from 25.2 to 26.1), optimized for high-resolution and large-scale pixel management.

• Ultra-high-resolution (8K+) image & video processing with real-time compositing
• Precise projection mapping powered by patented Wings Engine
• Easy multi-display and multi-server synchronization management
• Competitive pricing with strong customization options

Pandora's Box

Pandora’s Box (currently owned by twoloox GmbH following its 2025 acquisition from Christie) is a media server specialized in real-time 3D compositing, video mapping, and interactive content. It delivers powerful real-time manipulation and effects generation for live events, exhibitions, theme parks, and more, with excellent compatibility across formats and plugins including NDI, SDVoE, Dante, Notch, and others.

The latest version is the 8.x series (such as 8.11.x), supporting creative workflows alongside Widget Designer. Post-acquisition, ongoing product support and updates continue without interruption.

• Real-time 3D visual generation & control with interactive design capabilities
• Rich variety of effects, mapping tools, and high compatibility with other media servers
• High flexibility well-suited for mid-scale projects

Summary

As of 2026, Disguise excels in large-scale live tours, broadcasts, and virtual production—particularly LED volume-based XR/AR broadcasting and immersive XR stages—thanks to its superior XR and AI integration along with top-tier performance.

AV Stumpfl PIXERA stands out with precise projection mapping and excellent value for money in large-scale exhibitions, museums, and fixed installations, while also delivering strong XR/AR virtual production and XR stage capabilities through seamless Unreal Engine integration.

Pandora’s Box delivers outstanding creativity in mid-scale corporate events and experiential installations with its powerful real-time interactivity and high flexibility.