How to Use AU Plugins in GarageBand (macOS)

Created by julien FAURE, Modified on Sun, 6 Apr at 2:49 PM by julien FAURE

GarageBand supports AU (Audio Unit) plugins, which are the native plugin format for macOS. It does not support VST3 directly, so you need to make sure your plugin is available in AU format to use it in GarageBand.

✅ Step 1: Install the Plugin

Download the plugin installer (make sure it's the AU version).
Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
Most AU plugins are installed in:
```
/Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/Components
```

✅ Step 2: Enable Audio Units in GarageBand

Open GarageBand.
Go to the top menu:
GarageBand > Settings (or Preferences) > Audio/MIDI
Make sure “Enable Audio Units” is checked.

✅ Step 3: Restart GarageBand

After installation and enabling Audio Units, restart GarageBand to refresh the plugin list.

✅ Step 4: Load the Plugin

Open or create a project in GarageBand.
Add a new Software Instrument track.
On the left, open the Smart Controls (press B if it’s hidden).
In the "Plug-ins" section, click on the instrument slot and select:
AU Instruments > [Your Plugin Manufacturer] > [Plugin Name]

✅ Step 5: Authorize the Plugin (if needed)

When you open the plugin for the first time, you might be asked to log in or authorize it using your email and password.
This step may also link the license to your machine.

? Notes

If your plugin is only available as VST3, you won’t be able to use it directly in GarageBand.
You can try using it in another DAW that supports VST3 (like Logic Pro, Reaper, Cubase, etc.).