Specifications

Audio Plug-Ins Guide6
AAX Plug-Ins
AAX (Avid Audio Extension) plug-ins provide
real-time plug-in processing using host-based
(“Native”) processing. The AAX plug-in format
also supports AudioSuite non-real-time, file-
based rendered processing.
AAX plug-in files use the “.aax” file suffix.
RTAS Plug-Ins
RTAS (Real-Time AudioSuite) plug-ins provide
real-time plug-in processing using host-based
(“Native”) processing. They function as track
inserts, are applied to audio during playback,
and process audio non-destructively in real
time. Processing power for RTAS plug-ins comes
from your computer. The more powerful your
computer, the greater the number and variety of
RTAS plug-ins that you can use simultaneously.
Because of this dependence on the CPU or host
processing, the more RTAS plug-ins you use con-
currently in a session, the greater the impact it
will have on other aspects of your system’s per-
formance, such as maximum track count, num-
ber of available voices, the density of edits pos-
sible, and latency in automation and recording.
RTAS plug-ins can be used with all Pro Tools
systems, as well as third-party software that
supports RTAS.
RTAS plug-in files use the “.dpm” file suffix.
TDM Plug-Ins
(Pro Tools|HD and VENUE Systems Only)
TDM (Time Division Multiplexing) plug-ins
provide real-time DSP-based (“DSP”) process-
ing with Pro Tools HD software on
Pro Tools|HD hardware.
TDM plug-in files use the “.dpm” file suffix.
The number and variety of TDM plug-ins that
can be used simultaneously in a session are lim-
ited only by the amount of DSP available. You
can increase available DSP by installing addi-
tional cards (such as HD Accel_Core
™
,
HD Accel
™
, HD Core
™
, or HD Process
™
cards) in
your computer.
TDM plug-ins can also be used with VENUE live
console systems. DSP Mix Engine cards can be
added to a VENUE FOH Rack or Mix Rack for in-
creased TDM plug-in capability.
Using Plug-Ins in Pro Tools
Refer to the Pro Tools Reference Guide for infor-
mation on working with plug-ins, including:
• Inserting plug-ins on tracks
• Plug-In Window controls
•Adjusting plug-in controls
•Automating plug-ins
•Using side-chain inputs
•Using plug-in presets
•Clip indicators