Carla
A modular audio plugin host that loads LV2, VST2, VST3, AU, LADSPA and DSSI plugins.
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About Carla
Carla is a modular audio plugin host from the KXStudio project. It loads LADSPA, DSSI, LV2, VST2, VST3 and AU plugins, and it also plays SF2 and SFZ sound files. It includes transport control, automation of parameters via MIDI CC, and remote control over OSC.
JACK is the preferred audio driver, but Carla also works with ALSA, DirectSound and CoreAudio. It has four processing modes: single-client and multi-client JACK, a top-to-bottom rack, and a modular patchbay. It suits Linux audio users who want to run plugins without a full DAW.
Strengths
- Supports many plugin formats plus SF2 and SFZ files
- Rack and patchbay modes as well as JACK multi-client
- MIDI CC automation and OSC remote control
Limitations
- Built around JACK, which has a learning curve
- Rack mode does not support plugins with non-stereo channels
Details
- Pricing
- FreeFree to download; the project accepts donations.
- License
- Open source, license not stated
- Developer
- falkTX
- Platforms
- Windows, macOS, Linux
- How it runs
- Downloadable app
- Best suited for
- Linux musicians who want to host and route audio plugins outside a DAW
- Categories
- Audio tools
- Last verified
- Added
- Provenance
- Facts checked against the developer's own pages and store listings, 1 sources on file.
Alternatives to Carla
Compare allSoftware that can replace Carla for an important use case, and what changes if you switch.
Plogue Bidule
Connect audio, MIDI and processing components in a modular workspace.
Plogue Bidule is a paid closed-source modular host for audio, MIDI and plug-ins on Windows and macOS, dropping Carla's Linux support and JACK focus.
Carla as an alternative
Listings that name Carla as an alternative.
qpwgraph
A graphical patchbay for PipeWire that routes audio and MIDI between applications and devices on Linux.
Carla offers a patchbay mode for routing on Linux as well as Windows and macOS, but it is built around JACK and also hosts audio plugins.
Similar software
Related functionality, not necessarily a direct replacement.
JACK Audio Connection Kit
Connect audio and MIDI applications through an audio server.
VCV Rack
A virtual Eurorack modular synthesizer for Windows, macOS and Linux with a large module library.
Cardinal
Free, self-contained virtual modular synthesizer based on VCV Rack, as a plugin and standalone app.
Ardour
A full digital audio workstation for recording, editing and mixing, with no subscription and no dongle.
REAPER
Full digital audio workstation for multitrack recording, editing, mixing and MIDI.
