VST3 vs AU vs AAX: Which Plugin Format Do You Need?
A clear comparison of VST3, AU, and AAX plugin formats — which DAWs support what, and how to choose the right format for your workflow.
VST3 vs AU vs AAX: Which Plugin Format Do You Need?
When shopping for audio plugins, you'll encounter three main format labels: VST3, AU, and AAX. Here's what each means and how to choose.
VST3 (Virtual Studio Technology 3)
Developer: Steinberg Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux Supported DAWs: Ableton Live, FL Studio, Cubase, Studio One, Reaper, Bitwig, and most others
VST3 is the most widely supported format. If you're on Windows, this is almost certainly what you need. On macOS, most DAWs support both VST3 and AU, so either works.
VST3 improvements over the older VST2:
- Dynamic I/O (plugins adapt to your channel configuration)
- Better CPU efficiency (processing pauses when input is silent)
- Resizable interfaces
- Improved preset management
AU (Audio Units)
Developer: Apple Platforms: macOS only Supported DAWs: Logic Pro, GarageBand, Final Cut Pro, and most macOS DAWs
AU is Apple's native plugin format. If you use Logic Pro, you need AU versions of your plugins. Most macOS DAWs also support VST3, but Logic is AU-only.
AAX (Avid Audio eXtension)
Developer: Avid Platforms: Windows, macOS Supported DAWs: Pro Tools only
AAX is exclusive to Pro Tools. If Pro Tools is your primary DAW, you need AAX versions. Some plugins offer all three formats; others focus on VST3/AU.
Which Format Do Paraflex Audio Plugins Support?
| Product | VST3 | AU | Standalone | |---------|------|----|-----------| | Alchemy | Yes | No | Yes | | Duality | Yes | No | No | | Lens | Yes | No | No | | Ambitura | — | — | Desktop App |
Alchemy, Duality, and Lens currently ship as VST3 plugins, with Alchemy also available as a standalone app. Ambitura is a standalone desktop application (not a plugin) since it processes video files directly.
Quick Decision Guide
- Using Logic Pro? → You need AU
- Using Pro Tools? → You need AAX (check availability per plugin)
- Using any other DAW on Windows? → VST3
- Using any other DAW on macOS? → VST3 or AU (both work)
- Want to use a plugin without a DAW? → Look for Standalone versions
Try Before You Buy
Ambitura offers request-based Cloud AI trial credits. For plugin compatibility questions, check each product page's current format list before purchasing.