AET 2050 - DAW Production

1. DAW Plug-Ins

Objectives:

1. Define the plug-in and its operations
2. Distinguish between the various processing methods and procsessing types

Plug-Ins

• A separate program that performs a certain specific task
• Not stand-alone, but used in conjunction with a host program
• Usually adds effects or special features to the host
• 

Process

• Plug-in is called from the host program
• Audio data is routed from the host via API (Application Programming Interface)
• Data is processed, then sent back to host
• Processes are resource-intensive; they can affect the overall operation of a DAW

Processing methods

Real-time

• Processes in real time
• Data sent and returned during program execution (i. e. playback)
• Modifications can be made and realized in real time
• Consumes CPU resources - can limit the functions of the program

Offline

• Process is not in real time
• Data is selected, process performed, new data returned
• "Once and done"
• Frees up resources
• Cannot be changed without repeating the processing steps

Processing Types

• Native - using the computer's resources
• DSP - using the DSP resources of a DSP DAW
• Powered Native - using add-in hardware specific for the plug-in

Formats

• Formats created by manufacturers
• Usually proprietary - must have the proper format for the given application
• Defines how the plug-in interfacces and interacts with the host application
• Generally, does not change the function of the plug-in itself

Formats:

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