Networking Schema

[Pronecobra]

I run Nuendo with a Presonus Firepod. I have a second computer and I want to run a network in order to do plug-in processing and/or virtual instruments off of the second machine. I know that I could get a new soundcard with a S/PDIF in & out, install Nuendo on the second machine and run a VST link between that soundcard and the Firepod on my host computer. However, I have heard of other possible ways of accomplishing this via Ethernet cable and additional software. This would be ideal for me, not only because it would save me the money from buying a new soundcard, but because I would then have my two computers networked in all other capacities beyond just music/VST processing. It would be cool to be able to share and move files between both machines and be able to use the same connection to do outboard processing in order to free up some resources in my host computer. Any information regarding this would be greatly appreciated.

Pronecobra from ANVILstudio

[DAS]

Steinberg has their VST System Link networking, which does allow you to use other computers for some of the processing, over ethernet. The latency of the other, networked systems is an issue though, so you'll have to optimize the performance of any machines you want to use in this way much like you do with your main machine.

[Justin]

The other program you're thinking of is FXTeleport. It allows VST plugins to run on a second computer connected via Ethernet.
http://www.fx-max.com/fxt/
I don't know if anyone here has used it, so you might see if they have a demo version you can play with before you buy.

You might also want to look at Waves APA product line
http://www.sweetwater.com/store/search.php?s=waves+apa&tt=1&go=Go%21

and the Muse Receptor:
http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/ReceptorRevC/

Both are dedicated hardware boxes that act as a plugin host.