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 direct 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 organisa- tion ensures temporal alignment and integrity even in asynchronous contexts.

Once in the JavaScript environment, data can be processed, routed back to the DAW, or forwarded to web applications, IoT devices, and collaborative platforms via protocols 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 process- ing 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.