Abstract

Real-time audio effects processing plays a central role in modern music production and live performance environments where low latency, stability, and responsiveness are an integral. This work presents the design and implementation of XPulse, a real-time multi-band audio effects plugin that combines frequency-based processing, plugin hosting, and performance driven control. The system divides incoming audio into multiple frequency bands and processes each band independently through dedicated plugin chains. A custom hosting architecture enables the use of third-party audio effects to be loaded and routed within each band, while MIDI based performance input influences signal routing and effect intensity in real time. Evaluation of XPulse was conducted through spectral analysis and functional testing to verify isolation, crossover behavior, recombination, and plugin routing performance. Results help demonstrate that the system successfully processes audio in separate independent bands with dynamic effect control support, though recombination artifacts were observed at crossover points during spectral analysis due to phase interactions. This work demonstrates the possibilities of integrating multi-banded processing with plugin hosting and performance control within a singular unified real-time audio system.

Advisor

Nord, Alex

Second Advisor

Slawson, Gregory

Department

Computer Science; Music

Disciplines

Audio Arts and Acoustics | Composition | Music Performance | Other Computer Engineering | Other Engineering

Keywords

real-time audio processing, audio plugins, digital signal processing(DSP), multi-band processing, plugin hosting

Publication Date

2026

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Music

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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© Copyright 2026 Noah Aitan McDonald