Modalics has unveiled Plugin Buddy, a free plugin host designed to handle a range of tasks like running VST3s in Pro Tools, chaining MIDI effects with instruments, and grouping multiple plugins together for streamlined processing.
Essentially, Plugin Buddy serves as a VST3 host for macOS and Windows, capable of running as a plugin in any DAW or functioning as a standalone app, giving users flexibility in how they integrate it into their workflow.
This tool is all about enhancing cross-platform functionality, allowing seamless management of plugins across different systems. Plugin Buddy even supports loading VST3 plugins in AU and AAX hosts, making it highly versatile for varied setups.
One of its standout features is the ability to craft custom chains of MIDI effects, instruments, and plugins, bypassing the usual restrictions tied to DAWs or plugin formats. You can load up to four MIDI plugins alongside your instrument, allowing for quicker creative flow without technical hassles.
The question arises – does this open the door to DAWless jamming? Plugin Buddy’s instant-loading capability and “zero latency” performance certainly make that a possibility. It enables you to bypass DAW startup times and jump straight into your instruments. You can even chain plugins together to act as entirely new instruments, expanding your sonic possibilities.
Included with Plugin Buddy are several free plugins, such as MIDI tools, a synthesizer, a low-pass filter, and a clipper. Additionally, the dynamic visualizer provides real-time audio and MIDI feedback, showing pitch and velocity changes as they happen.
For those interested in learning more, Modalics has released a 12-minute YouTube tutorial that goes through all the key features and workflows available in Plugin Buddy.
This free plugin host might not appeal to everyone, but for those in need of its capabilities, it’s a game-changer – especially since it’s completely free.
To grab Plugin Buddy, just head to the product page and hit the “Claim for Free” button. You’ll need to set up an account with your name and email. Although the website mentions possible delays in delivering installer links, I found the macOS and Windows links appeared instantly during my download.
If Plugin Buddy impresses you, check out the other deals on Modalics’ store, with discounts of up to 33% on single products and larger reductions on bundles.
Download: Plugin Buddy (FREE – email required)
