Sync Christmas Lights to Music With Philips Smart Bulbs
Before you begin playing music, you’ll need to set up an Entertainment area via the Philips Hue app.
Set Up an Entertainment Area
An Entertainment area tells the Hue Bridge how many lights you have and where they are. The hardware will also pull this information to sync your holiday lights. To set up an Entertainment area, follow these steps:
Sync Philips Hue Lights With Music From Your Computer
Once you’ve set up the entertainment area, switch to the Hue Sync app for Mac or Windows to get the lights moving.
Sync Philips Hue Lights with Spotify
An easier way to sync up your lights with music is available if you have a Philips Hue bridge and a Spotify account.
Sync Lights to Music With a Christmas Light Controller
A Christmas light controller will let you build elaborate, flashy displays, but it can be expensive or complicated, depending on your budget and technical know-how. A fully assembled light controller is the easiest to set up and the most costly option. A controller kit is less expensive but requires minor electrical work. A DIY controller is the least expensive option, but it leaves the assembly and set up in your hands. The step-by-step instructions for each controller and software will vary.
Light Controller Software Options
You can also take a software route if you either don’t own smart lighting or use a combination of standard and smart options. Here are some popular Christmas light controller software options:
Light-O-Rama’s controller software includes dozens of options for songs and pre-built sequences. Setting your lights to pulse with the music is as simple as selecting a few options on your computer screen, but these options aren’t cheap. Vixen is the lighting software for the do-it-yourself decorator. While the cost is negligible, you’ll need to set up the entire show on your own, including the timing sequences and song choices. Vixen lays the foundation for you to work, but it doesn’t hold your hand in the process. xLights is a free light sequencer. If you’re trying to save as much money as possible, this is the way to go. The software has an active forum community where you can ask questions and numerous video tutorials to help overcome roadblocks along the way.
