Most of the modules in Virtual Mix Rack are also available as individual plugins called Virtual Modules, or VMs. They share names with their VMR counterparts, but they are separate plugins. This article explains the difference and why you may be asked to install a VM for something you already use in VMR, such as when opening a Playground session.
Quick Comparison
| VMR Modules | VMs (Virtual Modules) | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A module that loads inside Virtual Mix Rack | An individual module released as its own plugin |
| Format | Proprietary module format (.EPL), designed for VMR only | VST2, VST3, AU, and AAX |
| Where it works | Only inside Virtual Mix Rack | Directly in your DAW, like any other plugin |
| How it appears | Loaded from within the Virtual Mix Rack plugin | Listed in your DAW with "VM" in front of the name (e.g., "VM FG-401") |
| What you need installed | Virtual Mix Rack | The specific VM plugin |
What is a VMR module?
Modules in Virtual Mix Rack, such as the FG-401, use a proprietary module format (.EPL) that is designed to work only inside VMR. They can't be loaded outside of the Rack.
What is a VM?
VMs, or "Virtual Modules," are the individual modules of VMR broken out of the Rack and formatted as standalone plugins in VST2, VST3, AU, and AAX. They're for anyone who wants to use a module directly on a track without opening VMR.
How do I tell if I'm looking at a VM in my DAW?
Look for "VM" in front of the module name. In the example below from Reaper, each plugin is listed as "VM" followed by the module name (VM FG-401, VM FG-2A, and so on), shown here in both VST and VST3 formats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to install the VM if I already have the same module available in VMR?
Yes. The VMR module and the VM are treated as separate plugins, so having one doesn't cover the other.
Can I use the module from Virtual Mix Rack outside of the Rack?
If you want to use a module outside of Virtual Mix Rack, or have a session that a Virtual Module was used in, you'll need to install the Virtual Module version. Modules from the Virtual Mix Rack and Virtual Modules aren't interchangeable in your DAW.
Why does a Playground session ask me to install a plugin I already use in VMR?
Playground sessions are built with either the VMR version of a module or the VM version. If a session uses a VM, you need that VM installed, even if you have the same module in VMR.
Can I open Playground sessions without installing both versions of a plugin?
Unfortunately, no. If a session uses the Virtual Mix Rack version of a module, you'll need Virtual Mix Rack installed. If it uses a VM, you'll need that VM installed.
Why does Complete Access show a plugin as "not installed" when I use it in VMR?
The VMR module and the VM are separate plugins, so having a module in VMR doesn't count as having the VM installed.
Still need help?
If you have questions about VMR or VMs, contact the Slate Digital Support team by submitting a request here.
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