Choosing the best Xsens mocap setup is not always as straightforward as we like it to be. There will be different options, requirements, and challenges based on each individual's situation.
This is why we've put together this blog: to help you make the best decision for you.
Did you already make your choice on going forward with Xsens? If not, we have some resourses available for you to look at, like an overview of comparisons and reviews of motion capture providers by the community and an overview of productions powered by Xsens.
Once you are convinced Xsens is the best solution for you, we can help you select the best setup for your specific situation.
In general, you have to make four choices:
Let's dive into these three questions one by one.
Inertial motion capture requires sensors that are attached to the body in order to capture your movements. Xsens has developed a wireless sensors setup (MVN Awinda) and a tethered sensors setup (MVN Link). Both setups use 17 sensors, while MVN Awinda has wireless sensors fitted on the body with adjustable straps that allow for fast, easy, and reliable motion capture. MVN Link's sensors are fitted on the body through a Lycra suit ensuring even more accurate data recording.
The connection from the body to the computer is always wireless.
What is the best choice for me, MVN Link or MVN Awinda (Starter)?
Choosing between MVN Link and MVN Awinda (Starter) depends on your goal with motion capture. For further inspiration, here is an overview you can use to pick the best hardware for your situation:
MVN Link | MVN Awinda (Starter) |
For high-impact mocap shoots, like rough fights | When you have several actors using the same setup |
Large groups of motion capture (with OBR) | Ideal for regular motions, nothing too rough |
When using positional aiding (GPS/HTV Vive) | Can be worn over your regular clothing |
When you need a large range (up to 150 m) | The range is 20 to 50 m |
When you need high framerates (240 Hz) | Maximum of 60 Hz framerate |
In addition to the MVN Link and MVN Awinda, we have the MVN Awinda Starter. So, in total, we have three different hardware options:
👉 You can find a detailed overview of all features and benefits of these three hardware options in this table.
Once you have chosen your hardware, the next step is to determine the software subscription that best suits your goals. Xsens offers three subscription types, each supporting a different use of our motion capture systems. The three types are MVN Record, MVN Animate Plus, MVN Animate Pro.
MVN Record (free option)
An MVN Record subscription is completely free, but it also has limited capabilities. You can do motion capture with one actor and record the files. By adding MVN Processing on MotionCloud (see additional services) to your subscription, you can export and HD reprocess files in the cloud for only $295 per month (or $2,950 a year).
HD Reprocessing (or MVN Processing in the cloud) gives you the best quality motion capture data available in the market. The data is processed using our proprietary HD Reprocessing Engine and takes the motion capture data to a whole new level of accuracy and smoothness.
The MVN Record subscription is ideal if you have multiple systems or systems in multiple locations. You don't need an MVN Animate Plus or Pro subscription for all your systems; you can record the files in MVN Record. And additionally, you can use Xsens MotionCloud to store and process the files.
MVN Animate Plus and Pro
The main differences in the MVN Animate Plus and Pro subscription are based on your intention with motion capture. Consider these questions when making the best choice for the subscription:
👉 There are more differences; you can find a full overview in this table.
Your Xsens motion capture setup is now complete for use. But there are additional services and hardware you might need to optimize your pipeline or add additional data.
Think about these options:
For Indie studios we have the Xsens Indie Program, a program to support up-and-coming talent, making it easier to access Hollywood-grade motion capture on a budget. the program is designed to support a more affordable way to bring projects to life, without having to compromise on quality.
The Xsens Indie program is available to you if you meet the following criteria:
Now that you have been informed about all the different options and features Xsens offers, you are ready to order.
To get this started, click on the button below and fill out your order details. We will provide you with an overview and quote as soon as possible.