daw-compatibility-guide

Diagnose and resolve DAW compatibility issues for JUCE plugins.

9|Updated Oct 29, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/yebot/rad-cc-plugins --skill daw-compatibility-guide
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: daw-compatibility-guide
Source: https://github.com/yebot/rad-cc-plugins/tree/main/plugins/juce-dev-team/skills/daw-compatibility-guide
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/yebot/rad-cc-plugins --skill daw-compatibility-guide

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill documents DAW-specific quirks, known issues, and workarounds to ensure JUCE plugins work reliably across major hosts and formats (AU/VST3/AAX).

Core Features & Use Cases

  • DAW Coverage: Logic Pro, Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Cubase, Reaper, FL Studio, Bitwig
  • Host-Specific Validation: AU validation tips (auval), tempo and automation considerations
  • Workarounds: Side-chaining, automation timing, and host-specific routing fixes
  • Usage: Debug DAW compatibility issues and apply proven fixes

Quick Start

When debugging a DAW issue (e.g., AU side-chain routing in Logic), consult these guidelines and apply the recommended workaround before re-testing.

Frequently Asked Questions about daw-compatibility-guide

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I fix AU plugin validation errors in Logic Pro with auval?

AU validation issues stem from missing metadata, incorrect bus layouts, or parameter smoothing problems. Use auval to identify failures, then apply format-specific fixes: ensure proper plugin descriptor configuration, verify bus layout declarations match your plugin's I/O, and implement parameter ramping to meet Logic's automation timing requirements.

Why doesn't VST3 side-chaining work the same way across DAWs?

VST3 side-chain routing behavior varies by host implementation. Logic Pro, Ableton Live, and Pro Tools each handle sidechain buses differently. Consult host-specific routing documentation, test parameter automation paths in each DAW, and apply workarounds for hosts that require explicit sidechain bus declarations or custom automation handling.

Can I use the same AAX plugin binary across Logic Pro, Pro Tools, and Cubase?

AAX, AU, and VST3 are separate formats with distinct validation and packaging requirements. Each DAW expects format-specific metadata and validation signatures. Build and validate each format independently: AU requires auval passing, VST3 needs format compliance, and AAX requires Pro Tools validation before deployment.

What DAW-specific automation issues should I test before release?

Test parameter automation timing, tempo sync behavior, and host-aware tempo handling across Logic Pro, Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Reaper, and FL Studio. Issues include automation lag, incorrect tempo reporting, and side-chain parameter smoothing failures. Document workarounds for each host's quirks and apply fixes during plugin validation.

How do I debug plugin behavior differences between Bitwig and other DAWs?

DAW compatibility issues often involve bus layout mismatches, automation handling, or format-specific validation failures. Test your JUCE plugin across Bitwig, Reaper, Cubase, and Ableton by checking tempo accuracy, automation responsiveness, and routing behavior. Apply host-aware detection logic and workarounds documented for each platform.

What are common AAX and VST3 format requirements I need to meet for plugin submission?

Format-specific requirements include proper plugin metadata declaration, correct bus layout configuration, parameter smoothing implementation, and host-aware automation handling. Each format (AAX, VST3, AU) demands independent validation and testing. Pass auval for AU, verify VST3 compliance, and ensure AAX meets Pro Tools standards before release.