Element
With Element, users can build effect racks and instruments and route audio and MIDI through a modular plugin host for Mac, Windows, and Linux.
About Element
Element is a modular plugin host for Mac, Windows, and Linux. Users build effect racks and instruments, and route audio and MIDI between sources and destinations in one graph. According to the homepage, it can run on stage or as a plugin inside a digital audio workstation (DAW).
The homepage describes live use, where instruments and effects are loaded into one graph and setups are switched without leaving the app. It also lists support for CLAP and LV2 alongside VST, VST3, and AU, including on Linux. The homepage does not state pricing, so the entry does not describe cost. Building from source requires following separate build instructions and dependency information.
Key features
- Nest graphs inside other graphs to build reusable effect racks
- Route audio and MIDI from any source to any destination
- Sync to MIDI Clock and switch between setups within the app
- Run on stage or as a plugin inside a DAW
- Load CLAP and LV2 plugins alongside VST, VST3, and AU
- Send and receive MIDI with hardware in your setup
Best for: Live performers and musicians who want to run instruments and effects in one host, with or without a DAW.
Good for
- Saved effect chains can be reused across sessions
- Supports CLAP and LV2 formats on Linux as well as VST, VST3, and AU
- Handles MIDI from both plugins and external hardware
Watch out for
- Building from source requires separate instructions and dependency setup
Element at a glance
- Website
- kushview.net/element
- Category
- Music & Audio › Audio Editing & Production
- Type
- Website
- Pricing
- Not confirmed. Check the site
- Platforms
- Linux, macOS, Web, Windows
- Open source
- Not stated
- Language
- English
- Last checked
- Oct 6, 2026 · Online when checked
- Listed
- Oct 5, 2026
Guides for Audio Editing & Production
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Element FAQ
Does Element require a DAW for live use?
The homepage says live rigs can be set up with no DAW required.
Can Element run inside a DAW?
Yes. The homepage says Element can run as a plugin inside a DAW.
Where should bugs and feature requests be reported?
The homepage says to report bugs and feature requests on GitHub, using the Element issue tracker.
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