Carla is a comprehensive modular audio plugin host for Linux.
It can be used as a straightforward rack for loading effects and instruments or as a more elaborate patching environment where audio and MIDI are connected manually. Support for numerous plugin standards, sound-bank formats and audio backends makes Carla useful across recording, synthesis, live performance and experimental audio workflows.
This is free and open source software.
Key Features
- Loads LADSPA plugins used by many long-established Linux audio applications.
- Supports DSSI instruments and effects where that plugin format is still required.
- Hosts LV2 plugins with support for their associated interfaces and metadata.
- Can load Linux VST2 plugins in compatible environments.
- Supports VST3 plugins for a wider selection of contemporary audio software.
- Loads SF2, SF3 and SFZ sound banks for sample-based instruments.
- Rack mode arranges plugins in a straightforward ordered processing chain.
- Patchbay mode exposes ports and connections for more flexible signal routing.
- JACK Multi-Client mode allows plugins to appear as separate JACK clients.
- JACK Single-Client mode keeps hosted plugins within Carla’s own client structure.
- Native ALSA audio support allows operation without requiring a JACK server.
- Internal player can handle audio and MIDI files for testing or playback.
- Plugin parameters can be mapped to MIDI continuous controllers.
- OSC support enables remote control from compatible software and hardware setups.
- Project files can preserve complex plugin and routing arrangements.
- Carla itself can be loaded in compatible hosts for nested plugin workflows.
- Bridge facilities help isolate plugins and accommodate differing plugin architectures.
Website: github.com/falkTX/Carla
Support:
Developer: Filipe Coelho
License: GNU General Public License v2.0
Carla is written in C++ and C. Learn C++ with our recommended free books and free tutorials. Learn C with our recommended free books and free tutorials.
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| coppwr | Low-level GUI for inspecting and controlling PipeWire |
| Helvum | Graphical patchbay for connecting PipeWire audio streams |
Read our verdict in the software roundup.
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