Maim
MAIM creates real-time digital distortion effects by circuit-bending MP3 and Opus encoders in an audio plugin.
About Maim
MAIM is an audio plugin that circuit bends MP3 and Opus encoders in real time, disrupting control flow to create digital distortions. It includes two real MP3 encoders and, as of version 1.1.0, the real Opus encoder.
Key features
- Circuit bends MP3 and Opus encoders in real time for digital distortions.
- Includes two real MP3 encoders and the real Opus encoder (v1.1.0).
- Fine control over spectral distortions and glitches.
- Knobs can be smoothly dragged and automated without pops or gaps.
- Runs as AU/VST3 on Mac, VST3 on Windows and Linux.
Best for: Music producers and sound designers who want to add MP3 and Opus encoder-based digital distortions and glitches inside a DAW.
Good for
- Uses real MP3 and Opus encoders incorporated into a real-time plugin.
- Knob movements can be automated smoothly without pops or gaps.
- Available for Mac, Windows, and Linux in common plugin formats.
Watch out for
- GPL v3.0 license requires any redistribution to use the same license.
- On Linux, installation requires manually copying the VST3 file to a plugin folder.
Maim at a glance
- Category
- Music & Audio › Audio Editing & Production
- Type
- Open-source project
- Pricing
- Not confirmed. Check the site
- Platforms
- Linux, Windows
- Open source
- Yes · Source code
- Language
- English
- Last checked
- Oct 6, 2026 · Online when checked
- Listed
- Oct 5, 2026
Guides for Audio Editing & Production
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Maim FAQ
What plugin formats and platforms does MAIM support?
MAIM works as AU/VST3 on Mac, VST3 on Windows, and VST3 on Linux.
How do I install MAIM?
Download the installer for your OS from the GitHub releases tab. Windows and Mac have installers; on Linux, copy Maim.vst3 to your plugin folder, often ~/.vst3.
What license does MAIM use?
MAIM is licensed under GPL v3.0. You are free to use and modify it, as long as any redistribution is under the same license.
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