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Cardinal project preview
MediaAlternative to Max for LiveAlternative to ReaktorAlternative to VCV Rack Pro

Cardinal

Virtual modular synthesizer plugin based on VCV Rack available as VST2, VST3, CLAP, and LV2.

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LicenseGPL-3.0
GitHub stars3.8k
Last commit1 weeks ago
Tags6 topics
Modular Synth PluginMediaVst3 VcvDistrhoCppClap Plugin
Overview

Why consider Cardinal?

Cardinal is a free and open-source virtual modular synthesizer plugin by DISTRHO. Built on VCV Rack code in C++, it wraps hundreds of modular synth modules into a self-contained DAW plugin with zero external licensing fees or account logins.

Guided learning

Learn Cardinal by building

Practical setup notes, real use cases, and copy-ready examples in one focused guide.

1 min read 2 sections
In this guide2 sections

Overview of Cardinal

Cardinal brings the complete power of Eurorack modular patch synthesis directly inside DAW mixer tracks.

Installation

bash
1# Ubuntu KXStudio repository
2sudo apt install cardinal

Cardinal is licensed under the GNU General Public License v3.0 (GPL-3.0).

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Cardinal FAQs

Cardinal is listed as a Media tool on TiloBox. Review the overview, features, and official documentation on this page to decide whether it solves your specific workflow.

Start with the project's GitHub repository and official website for supported installation and deployment instructions. Test the setup with representative data or a small project before rolling it out more widely.

Cardinal is listed under the GPL-3.0 license. Read the complete license text and the project's notices before using, modifying, or distributing the software.

Production readiness depends on your requirements. Review maintenance activity, security practices, documentation, backup and upgrade procedures, and compatibility with your stack; then validate it in a non-production environment.

Cardinal is listed as an alternative to Max for Live. Compare the core workflow, deployment model, integrations, and licensing against your must-have requirements before switching.