Element by Kushview is a modular audio plugin host designed for both live performance and studio work, offering a flexible environment to load and connect VST, VST3, Audio Unit, CLAP, and LV2 plugins. If you're new to Element, one of the most useful ways to implement it is as a straightforward plugin host and audio router-perfect for musicians, producers, or engineers who want to build custom effect chains or instrument racks without the complexity and overhead of a full DAW.
Core Features for Beginners
- Plugin Hosting: Load a wide range of plugin formats, including VST, VST3, and Audio Units, allowing you to use your favorite instruments and effects in one place.
- Modular Routing: Visually connect plugins in any order, enabling creative signal flows and custom processing chains.
- Low Overhead: Element is lightweight and optimized for real-time use, making it ideal for live performance or quick studio setups.
- Cross-Platform: Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, with best performance typically on macOS due to superior audio driver support.
Step-by-Step: Hosting and Routing Plugins in Element
1. Add Plugins to Your Workspace
- Open Element and scan your system for installed plugins.
- Drag and drop plugins from the plugin panel into the main workspace.
2. Connect Plugins Visually
- Use your mouse to draw virtual cables between plugin nodes, routing audio and MIDI as desired.
- For example, connect your audio input node to an effect plugin (like a reverb or delay), then route the output to your audio output node.
3. Basic Routing Example
- Input Node → Compressor → EQ → Reverb → Output Node
- This chain processes incoming audio through a compressor, then an EQ, and finally a reverb before sending it to your speakers or interface.
4. Adjust Plugin Parameters
- Click on any plugin node to open its interface and tweak parameters in real time.
- You can automate or map parameters to MIDI controllers for hands-on control, which is especially useful in live settings.
5. Save Your Setup
- Save your workspace (graph) for instant recall, making it easy to switch between different effect chains or instrument racks for different projects or performances.
Practical Benefits
- Quick Setup: Instantly create custom effect chains without launching a full DAW.
- Live Performance: Use Element as a lightweight, stable host for your plugins on stage.
- Experimentation: Test new plugin combinations and routing ideas in a sandbox environment.
Element by Kushview offers a powerful yet approachable way to host and route audio plugins, making it an excellent tool for both beginners and advanced users. Whether you’re building a simple effects chain or experimenting with complex modular setups, Element’s visual interface and flexible routing make it easy to implement creative audio solutions.