Terminology re plugins and modules

[andrew.bernard]

Let me get this straight. Is it the case that a Plugin is the top level construct and can contain one or more Modules, a kind of one to many relationship?

I tend to think of plugins and modules as the same thing, but in this context they are obviously not.

So when we make a dist package it is one plugin, containing multiple modules?

And when you subscribe to a maker in the VCV Library, you get one plugin, but with all the makers modules, correct?

[I suppose I am in the running for the Dumb Question of the Week Award. Forgive me - a newbie developer.]

[persy]

@andrew.bernard

So when we make a dist package it is one plugin, containing multiple modules?

this is correct.

[LarsBjerregaard]

You have it right Andrew. Most people who are confused are because:

• They listened to other people who are confused.
• They have a background with DAW’s and VST plugins, where a VST plugin works like a module does in VCV Rack.

See also:

Help with VCV Rack-related terminology?

50% of software architecture is spent naming things. I can handle the names of technical terminology (such as using Model as a better name for ModuleAndModuleWidgetFactory) but some of the more public-facing names could use some public review. Here are the best I’ve come up with for each VCV Rack-related term: Plugins/modules made by VCV and branded with the “VCV” logo: VCV plugins/modules All plugins/modules made to work in VCV Rack, regardless of author: Rack plugins/modules or VCV Rack pl…

Why do so many people call Rack plugins "packs"?

I’m genuinely curious. Is it because you often use Ableton “packs” or because you’re referring to collection of samples, often called “sample packs”? I know of no other sources of that terminology in the audio software industry.

[stoermelder (Ben)]

@LarsBjerregaard

They have a background with DAW’s and VST plugins, where a VST plugin works like a module does in VCV Rack.

Actually, this is not 100% accurate. VST „plugins“ can also contain multiple effects or instruments. These are called „shell“ plugins.
This is not used often but most prominent examples are Waves and Expert Sleepers Silent Way.

[Vortico (VCV - Andrew)]

This is all correct, except one nitpick.

@andrew.bernard

And when you subscribe to a maker in the VCV Library, you get one plugin, but with all the makers modules, correct?

A plugin developer can create multiple plugins with the same brand.