VCV RACK
VCV Rack
VCV Rack is one of the most important tools in modern software synthesis. What began as an open-source experiment has evolved into a fully fledged virtual modular platform that mirrors Eurorack workflows while pushing far beyond hardware limitations.
With version 2, VCV Rack refines its interface, improves workflow, and expands its role as both a learning environment and a serious production system for modular synthesis, sound design, and generative music.
Available as a free standalone application for Windows, macOS, and Linux, VCV Rack also offers a paid Pro version that integrates directly into your DAW as a plugin.
System Requirements:
- 64 bit
- VST / AU
- Windows
- macOs
Modular synthesis without limits
VCV Rack recreates the experience of working with a Eurorack modular system inside your computer. You build patches by adding modules, connecting cables, and routing control voltage and audio freely across your rack.
In Rack, CV and audio are treated equally, meaning oscillators can modulate filters, envelopes can shape other modulators, and audio-rate signals can be used for FM, wave-shaping, and chaotic feedback.
Unlike hardware modular, Rack removes physical constraints. You can run polyphonic cables, save complete patches instantly, recall exact states later, and explore complex systems that would be impractical or prohibitively expensive in the real world.
What’s new in VCV Rack 2
Version 2 introduces a number of long-requested quality-of-life improvements. Dark Room Mode allows you to reduce eye strain during long night sessions by adjusting overall room brightness.
Module Selections make it possible to group, move, save, and share collections of modules as a single unit, which dramatically speeds up patch building.
The enhanced module browser adds zooming, favorites, sorting, and improved navigation, making it far easier to manage large collections of modules. For users of Rack Pro, DAW integration is now deeper than ever, with full plugin support and project recall inside your host.
DAW integration with Rack Pro
VCV Rack Pro runs as a VST2, VST3, AU, or CLAP plugin. This allows you to load Rack directly into your DAW, save patches inside projects, automate parameters, render offline, and run multiple Rack instances simultaneously.
Rack Pro supports up to 16 audio inputs and outputs, 16 MIDI inputs and outputs, and can be used as both an instrument and an effect.
This turns VCV Rack into a modular sound design engine that sits comfortably alongside traditional plugins in a modern production workflow.
Key Features:
Free Virtual Eurorack Modular Synthesizer (Standalone & DAW Plugin)
- Free standalone virtual modular synthesizer
- Eurorack-inspired workflow with cable patching
- CV and audio treated equally for deep modulation
- 30+ built-in modules included
- 170+ official modules from Eurorack manufacturers
- 2000+ community modules available via VCV Library
- Dark Room Mode for eye comfort
- Module Selections for faster patch building
- Enhanced module browser with favorites and sorting
- Polyphonic cables and advanced routing
- Cross-platform support: Windows, macOS, Linux
FAQ
Yes. The standalone version of VCV Rack is completely free and open source. The DAW plugin version requires Rack Pro.
Yes, but only with Rack Pro. The free version runs as a standalone application.
Very close. Many official modules are direct ports of the original hardware DSP code, resulting in highly accurate behavior.
Yes. It’s widely used to learn modular synthesis basics, while also scaling easily into advanced and experimental patching.
Yes. VCV Rack supports MIDI input and output, multi-interface audio routing, and CV integration with compatible hardware.
