AU or VST3 on MAcOS 26?

[pax-eterna]

I did a search on this but got no results really, so thought I'd ask the specific question...

Which is the best to use on a Mac (26.3) AU or VST3?

I read various conflicting views online in general, so thought I'd post here among the Apple experts. Still new to MacOS and what formats of data work best.

 

[Ben J.]

Most developers make AU, VST3, and AAX versions of their audio plugins and VI's (Virtual instruments). AU - mac only, mainly for Logic. VST3 - mac/pc, works on most DAWs/hosts. AAX - mac/pc, for Pro Tools only. And when you buy a license you choose which format(s) to install, or install all.

If the plugin works in one format, it usually works well in the other two also, so IME there is no 'better' or 'worse'.

Remember, when you search for 'better or worse', it most often means that you get results from people who have had a bad experience, and they blame it on one format or the other, doesn't have to mean anything.

Basically, you choose the software you want to use the plugin in, and install whatever format the software requires.