RhizomeBridge: real-time communication between native audio plugins and Node.js via shared memory

RhizomeBridge is a VST/AU plugin that enables real- time, bidirectional communication with minimal latency and sample-accurate precision between a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) and an external Node.js process. Unlike protocol-based approaches that add overhead through serialisation, polling, or network delays, it establishes a di- rect connection between the native audio callback and the JavaScript environment via shared memory and semaphores.

Audio and MIDI are exchanged in raw binary format through native Node.js add-ons. A custom data organisation ensures temporal alignment and integrity even in asynchronous contexts.

Once in the JavaScript environment, data can be pro- cessed, routed back to the DAW, or forwarded to web applications, IoT devices, and collaborative platforms via pro- tocols such as WebRTC or WebSocket. This upper layer is decoupled from the critical DAW ↔ Node.js link, which remains deterministic and sample-accurate.

The system has been tested in scenarios including bidirectional local communication, real-time audio/MIDI processing in Node.js and browsers, and audiovisual performances on mobile and web platforms. Results are presented alongside a technical overview of the architecture and latency evaluation.

By bridging low-level audio infrastructure with high-level JavaScript environments, RhizomeBridge provides a modular and reusable architecture that connects web ecosystems with professional DAWs, supporting distributed collaboration and enabling hybrid practices in composition, interaction, and creative coding.

Web Audio Conference 2025 : jour 2