Current vs Max

Current is a virtual instrument plug-in for macOS and Windows, designed to run inside a compatible 64-bit DAW. Its sound engine combines wavetable oscillators, an additive sub oscillator, sampler, filters, and FM/AM modulation. An effects rack supports up to nine reorderable effects and saved rack presets. MIDI tools include an arpeggiator and chord generator with key, scale, and voicing controls. The Stream platform lets users browse and download presets and sounds in the plug-in; downloaded content remains searchable offline, while activation and new-content browsing require internet access. Current works with Ableton Live, FL Studio, Logic Pro, Pro Tools, and other major DAWs. Plug-in formats are VST2, VST3, AU on macOS, and AAX for Pro Tools. The All Access plan costs $15 a month and includes Current, released standalone effect plug-ins, and expansion packs with subscribe-to-own credit. The seven-day trial automatically starts that program when it ends.

Max is an interactive visual patching environment for musicians, artists, and people prototyping software. It runs on macOS and Windows as a standalone app, supports sample import, and works with Audio Unit, VST, VST3, and AMXD formats. Users can build synthesizers, manipulate samples, and create layered multichannel sound with MC objects. Jitter adds expandable video and graphics tools for realtime audiovisual work. Max connects to development boards and accesses sensors, knobs, and switches for interaction prototypes. Gen creates audio, matrix, or texture processes and can output source code for use elsewhere. Package Manager offers over 50 add-ons, including Novation, Monome, and ROLI support. Extensions can be written in C++, NodeJS, Java, or JavaScript. Cycling '74 develops Max for Live with Ableton, and Max 9 adds sound-processing objects based on Ableton's audio library. The 30-day trial unlocks all features without restrictions on opening, editing, saving, or creating.