Martin Professional has introduced Martin Macula, a remote follow spot system designed to transform standard moving lights into precision-controlled tracking fixtures for performers and/or objects on stage. The system addresses long-standing operational, safety and ergonomic challenges associated with conventional follow spot workflows, particularly in live performance, touring and sporting environments.

Martin Macula replaces height-based follow spot operation with a ground-based control solution. From a single base station, operators can control one or multiple fixtures simultaneously with smooth, responsive movement, while maintaining a real-time visual reference that simulates being positioned directly at the fixture. This approach reduces operator fatigue, improves consistency and eliminates the safety risks associated with elevated platforms.

At the core of the system is a high-resolution fluid head encoder, paired with ergonomic handles, and an integrated intuitive touchscreen interface. The base station allows operators to manage pan, tilt and zoom movement directly, while additional parameters including dimming, color and frost can also be controlled locally when required. Configuration and setup are deliberately streamlined, allowing efficient operation with minimal training while maintaining professional-grade performance standards.

Movement control can be dynamically assigned, allowing movement or parameter control to transfer between console and base station on a cue-by-cue basis during a show. Fixtures fitted with cameras provide direct visual feedback to the operator, while additional fixtures without cameras can follow along in sync, enabling consistent multi-angle tracking of a performer or object. Presets and Fixture Banks can be created to adjust system behavior throughout a production, supporting flexible workflows across different show segments.

Macula is said to work extremely well with the Martin MAC Ultra Performance, MAC Viper XIP and MAC Encore Two fixtures, which have been optimized for smooth and responsive movement. But since Macula is fully brand-agnostic, this allows any suitable moving head fixture to be used as a follow spot and fitted with a camera. Network infrastructure is intentionally simplified, with camera feeds and control data running over a single network and no dedicated video cabling required between fixtures and the base station.

The system also supports PosiStageNet output, allowing XYZ position data for performers or objects to be shared with third-party applications, opening integration opportunities for advanced tracking and automation workflows.

The company confirms that Martin Macula is intended for use across theaters, concerts/touring, broadcast, and sporting venues, where accurate tracking, reliability and operator safety are critical. By shifting follow spot operation to a remote, configurable and brand-agnostic platform, Martin Macula offers lighting teams a practical alternative to traditional follow spot installations while maintaining professional-grade control and performance standards.