Synthfest 2018: Web Audio - Virtual Instruments In The Browser

Web Audio is a new browser based  technology that lets plug-in creators run native versions of their instruments from within the browser. Currently working in Chrome, its a new framework that uses the new Web Assembly Framework. Its not limited to virtual instruments though, effects processing can also be converted to this format. 

We spoke to Olly Larkin who developed the VirtualCZ - a recreation of the Casio CZ-101 initially released via PluginBoutique.com. He now has a Web Audio version that works online - using the new Web Assembly framework which lets developers use the core C++ code.

Currently Web Audio will address the selected system audio interface, there are plans to allow direct access of the audio interface and multi-channel use. One to watch we think.

It has a variety of uses - first up a quick way to demo plug-ins before purchase without the need to install a demo version, plus it can be used to demonstrate custom patches for any instrument which could have a Web Audio Module version.

Olly's VirtualCZ is available to try online here: VirtualCZ.io 

For more Web Audio devices - check out webaudiomodules.org