Blue Cat Audio has announced an update to its versatile multi-effects processor and plugin host. Version 2.67 of Blue Cat’s PatchWork introduces a new built-in audio file player plugin, which can be synced with the host’s transport.

Furthermore, users can now trigger the application version’s transport via MIDI, facilitating effortless synchronization of multiple plug-ins. Additional customization options come in the form of 15 new styles for personalized macro controls. This update also includes crucial performance enhancements and fixes, particularly addressing issues on Mac systems.

Blue Cat’s PatchWork is a universal plug-ins patchbay and multi FX that can host up to 64 VST, VST3, Audio Unit or built-in plug-ins into any Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) in a single instance, with both serial and parallel routing options.

It is possible to chain effects in series or create up to 8 parallel chains that can be activated independently. This lets you create your favorite effects or instruments configurations within the plug-in, without the need for multiple busses. These configurations can be saved as presets and recalled instantly, or shared with multiple DAWs, using any plug-in format (full list below). Use the built-in audio effects to add color to your own plug-in chains.

Changes in PatchWork v2.67

  • Seamlessly play over backing tracks with the new built-in audio player, supporting wav, mp3, and flac formats.
  • Drag and drop audio files directly into plug-in slots to open the audio player.
  • Choose from additional 15 styles to customize macro knobs.
  • Playback and rewind in the application can now be triggered by MIDI (allowing easy synchronization of plug-ins playback).
  • Offline rendering support: hosted plug-ins are now notified when the host application is rendering offline (non-realtime).
  • Improved audio performance when the application is used as a network server for Connector or Fader Hub.
  • Fixed audio recording issues under very low latencies and high CPU usage.
  • Fixed multicore performance issues for Apple Silicon systems.
  • Improved multicore performance on Intel Macs and Windows PCs.
  • Fixed Graphical User Interface performance issues on Mac OS Sonoma.
  • Fixed a crash with Audio Units reporting corrupted latency (invalid value) upon load.

Blue Cat’s PatchWork is available to purchase for 99 USD/EUR at the Blue Cat Audio store and from Plugin Boutique.

The update is free for existing users of PatchWork, and new users can also try the plugin with a free demo version (VST/VST3, AU and AAX).