File Formats

Spectralite uses several file formats for storing projects, fixtures, effects, and other assets.

Project files

Spectralite Project (.slp)

The main project file containing your complete show.

Contains:

• Timeline with all layers
• Effect assignments
• Fixture patch configuration
• Position map layouts
• BPM and timing settings

Usage:

• Save: Project > Save project (Cmd + S)
• Open: Project > Load project (Cmd + O)

Asset files

Fixture Definition (.slf)

Defines a lighting fixture's DMX channel layout and capabilities.

Contains:

• Fixture name and manufacturer
• DMX channel definitions
• Channel types (color, dimmer, position)
• Multiple mode configurations

Usage:

• Import via Library Manager > Fixtures > Import from file
• Export by right-clicking a fixture > Export

A fixture can also be imported from a .gdtf (General Device Type Format) file via Library Manager > Fixtures > Import GDTF.

Effect preset (.sle)

Saves a complete node graph as a reusable effect.

Contains:

• All nodes in the effect
• Node connections
• Parameter values
• Exposed parameters

Usage:

• Save via Library Manager > Effects > Save Current Effect
• Import via Library Manager > Effects > Import

MIDI mapping (.slm)

Stores MIDI controller mappings.

Contains:

• MIDI CC/Note assignments
• Target parameters
• Value ranges and input settings
• Channel assignments

Usage:

• Create in the MIDI Input dialog (Edit > Inputs > MIDI)
• Import via Library Manager > MIDI > Import

Color library (.slc)

Collection of colors and gradients.

Contains:

• Named colors with gradient definitions
• Gradients with multiple stops
• Active color selections

Usage:

• Managed via the Color Libraries dialog (Color panel > Open Library)
• Import via Library Manager

Import and export

Importing assets

1. Open Project > Library Manager.
2. Select the appropriate tab.
3. Click Import.
4. Select the file.
5. Choose destination (Library or Project).

Exporting assets

1. Right-click on any asset.
2. Select Export.
3. Choose save location.

File storage locations

Library assets

Subdirectories:

• default-fixtures/: .slf files.
• default-effects/: .sle files.
• default-midi-mappings/: .slm files.
• default-color-libraries/: .slc files.

Technical details

File format specifications

All Spectralite asset files are JSON-based:

• UTF-8 encoding.
• Human-readable.
• Can be version-controlled with Git.

File size guidelines