Max/MSP
Visual patching environment; scriptable via the js object, gen~ DSP language, and Node for Max.
| Language | JavaScript / Gen |
|---|---|
| Category | Synthesis & DSP |
| License | Proprietary |
| Platforms | macOS Windows |
| Install | Download from cycling74.com; 30-day trial, then paid license (bundled with Ableton Live Suite) |
| First released | ~1988 |
| Maintained | Yes |
| Links | Website |
Strengths
- Deep real-time audio/MIDI/DSP with visual patching plus code
- gen~ compiles patches to exportable source code
- Mature ecosystem, integrates with Ableton Live
Limitations
- Proprietary and commercial (paid license)
- js object is single-threaded and can bottleneck
Best for
Interactive audio/media artists wanting visual patching with embedded scripting.
Minimal example
inlets = 1;
outlets = 1;
function msg_int(n) {
outlet(0, n * 2);
}