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Can My Non-SoundGrid Audio Interface Connect to SoundGrid?

Apr 19, 2023

In June 2024 we will release the next version of StudioRack, which will no longer support offloading plugin processing to a SoundGrid server via SoundGrid Studio: Learn more.

The SoundGrid Connect feature of the SoundGrid Driver enables non-SoundGrid audio interfaces to connect to a SoundGrid network. This enables you to offload your plugin processing to a SoundGrid server, even if you don’t have a SoundGrid audio interface.

Most non-SoundGrid ASIO/Core Audio interfaces can connect to a SoundGrid network via SoundGrid Connect.

Please note: SoundGrid Connect does not allow real time capabilities, therefore it is NOT recommended for live sound. However, you can utilize it for preparing live sessions in a non-live environment.

To make sure that your non-SoundGrid audio interface can indeed connect to a SoundGrid audio network, please run the following test:

Run two host applications (Ableton and Reaper for instance) and choose your audio interface’s Driver in both hosts to check if audio passes properly.
If you only have one host application, download and install Reaper and then run the test below.

Once you have two audio hosts:

  1. Launch the first host application, go to its preferences or settings. Select your audio interface as the ASIO/Core Audio driver.
  2. Launch the second host application, go to its preferences or settings. Select your audio interface as the ASIO/Core Audio driver.
  3. Play some audio (you can use a Tone Generator) in both audio hosts simultaneously.
  4. Make sure you hear the audio correctly and free of artifacts. It may be worth trying different buffer sizes in your host application’s audio settings.

Please note: Some hosts, such as Pro Tools and SuperRack Performer, automatically claim all driver outputs. This means you cannot dedicate specific outputs to the second host.

If you have completed this test successfully, you will be able to use SoundGrid connect to take the load off your computer's CPU and offload the plugin processing onto a SoundGrid server. If not, we do not recommend buying a server for this purpose.