IKANDY
Audio-reactive music visualizer for Windows with MilkDrop presets, HDR rendering, and AI-generated scenes.
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What is IKANDY?
IKANDY is an audio-reactive visual engine and performance tool for Windows that renders real-time visualizations synced to music or audio input. It features a library of MilkDrop, GLSL, and WebGPU presets, supports multiple audio sources (system mix, per-app, line-in, audio interfaces), and includes optional AI scene generation via bring-your-own-key providers. Designed for music listeners, DJs/VJs, and shader artists.
IKANDY pricing
Pricing model: Freemium
Free base tier ($0), Pro ($7.99), Studio ($39.59 at release with 14-day deal, regular $59.99 after) — one-time purchase, no subscription
IKANDY pros
- Flexible audio input (system audio, per-app capture, line-in, audio interfaces, virtual cables)
- Multi-output support (desktop wallpaper, Spout to OBS/Resolume, multi-monitor, projectors)
- Lifetime purchase model with no subscription; AI generation is optional and bring-your-own-key
- Advanced creative control (MIDI, OSC, gamepad, Ableton Link sync, shader import, HDR post-processing chain)
- Local-first architecture: core playback and audio analysis run locally without uploading
IKANDY cons
- Windows-only (10/11, 64-bit); requires DirectX 12 GPU with WebGPU support (GTX 900+, RX 400+, Intel UHD 600+)
- AI generation requires external provider account and payment; IKANDY provides no built-in AI credits or API
- Limited ecosystem compared to established VJ platforms; metadata and lyrics features partially cut off in provided content
Frequently asked questions about IKANDY
Does it require Spotify?
No. IKANDY can react to system audio, a chosen app, line-in, an audio interface, or a virtual cable. Spotify works like any other media app with Windows media controls—no account connection needed.
Will Discord trigger the visuals?
Only if you choose the whole system mix. Per-app capture lets you listen to a single selected music app while ignoring Discord, notification sounds, and other system audio.
Is the AI a subscription?
No. AI scene generation is optional and bring-your-own-key. You pay the supported provider directly at its published rates; IKANDY sells no AI credits.
What is the difference between Pro and Studio?
Pro adds creation tools, wallpaper on any monitor, Steam Workshop publishing, a second-screen output window, and OBS output. Studio adds multi-monitor span, simultaneous mirrors across displays, live capture, higher-performance Spout output, MIDI and OSC control, and the performance console.
Does it upload my music?
No. Core playback and audio analysis run locally. Optional metadata and online features require internet, but music itself is not uploaded.