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Pro Audio Setup and Tuning for MX Linux

Why MX Linux Fluxbox Is Ideal for Audio Production

MX Linux, especially its lightweight Fluxbox edition, is a fantastic choice for audio production. Its minimal resource usage ensures that more system power is available for audio tasks, reducing latency and enhancing performance. This makes it perfect for professionals and enthusiasts seeking a reliable platform without unnecessary overhead.

Setting Up Pro Audio on MX Linux

Out of the box, MX Linux includes many essential tools. However, a few additional steps are needed to fully optimize your system for professional audio production.

Step 1: Install Missing PipeWire Packages

PipeWire is a modern audio and video server that works seamlessly with JACK and PulseAudio. Install the necessary libraries: 

sudo apt -y install pipewire-audio-client-libraries

Step 2: Enable PipeWire-JACK

To enable JACK support in PipeWire:

sudo mkdir -p /etc/pipewire/media-session.d
sudo touch /etc/pipewire/media-session.d/with-jack
sudo cp /usr/share/doc/pipewire/examples/ld.so.conf.d/pipewire-jack-*.conf /etc/ld.so.conf.d/
sudo ldconfig

Step 3: Add Your User to the Audio Group

Ensure your user has the necessary permissions:

sudo usermod -a -G audio $USER

Log out and log back in for the changes to take effect.

Step 4: Configure Audio Group Limits

Edit the limits configuration to optimize real-time audio performance: 

sudo nano /etc/security/limits.conf

Add the following lines:

@audio           -      rtprio           95
@audio           -      memlock          unlimited
@audio           -      nice             10

Save and exit.

Step 5: Add Windows VST Support

1. Install Yabridge

Download the latest Yabridge release from the official repository. Unpack it and move the folder to: 

~/.local/share/

2. Add Yabridge to PATH

export PATH="$PATH:$HOME/.local/share/yabridge"

Log out and back in to reload your profile.

3. Install Wine-Staging and Winetricks

sudo apt install winehq-staging winetricks

4. Install SP6 Compatibility Layer

winetricks vcrun6sp6

5. Configure Wine

Run:

winecfg

Follow the prompts to complete the setup.

6. Create Windows Plugin Directories

mkdir "$HOME/.wine/drive_c/Program Files/Steinberg"
mkdir "$HOME/.wine/drive_c/Program Files/Steinberg/VstPlugins"
mkdir "$HOME/.wine/drive_c/Program Files/Common Files/VST3"
mkdir "$HOME/.wine/drive_c/Program Files/VSTPlugins"

7. Register VST Folders with Yabridge

yabridgectl add "$HOME/.wine/drive_c/Program Files/Steinberg/VstPlugins"
yabridgectl add "$HOME/.wine/drive_c/Program Files/Common Files/VST3"
yabridgectl add "$HOME/.wine/drive_c/Program Files/VSTPlugins"

8. Set Yabridge Path

yabridgectl set --path="~/.local/share/yabridge"

9. Test Yabridge

Run:

yabridgectl

Repeat this command each time you add a new Windows VST plugin.

Additional Software Recommendations

To complete your pro audio setup, consider installing:

  • QjackCtl: A graphical patchbay for managing audio connections.

  • A Digital Audio Workstation (DAW): Options include Reaper, Harrison Mixbus, or Ardour.

Conclusion

With these optimizations, MX Linux Fluxbox transforms into a powerful, efficient platform for professional audio production. You can now:

  1. Use JACK audio to route internal audio signals seamlessly.

  2. Install and utilize Windows VST plugins with ease.

Enjoy creating music and exploring the full potential of MX Linux for audio production!

 

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Location: Thessaloniki, Greece

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