Link Node
A dynamic signal routing node that conditionally directs audio or modulation signals based on parameter-driven logic.
Overview
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Category | Utility |
| Version | 1 |
| Inputs | Variable (audio or mod) |
| Outputs | Variable (audio or mod) |
Purpose
While standard connections in Plugin Builder are static (always on), the Link Node enables dynamic routing based on parameters. This is useful for:
- Switching between signal paths
- Creating A/B routing
- Building selector systems
- Implementing complex modulation routing
Routing Modes
| Mode | Description | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| All | Signal passes to all connected outputs | Fan-out, parallel routing |
| Single | Routes to one specific output by index | A/B switching |
| Mask | Uses a 32-bit bitmask for selective routing | Complex multi-way routing |
Parameters
| Parameter | Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Mode | All / Single / Mask | Routing behavior |
| Index | 0 - 31 | Target output (Single mode) |
| Mask | 0 - 4294967295 | Bitmask value (Mask mode) |
How Modes Work
All Mode
Every input signal is sent to every connected output simultaneously.
Input → Link (All) → Output A
→ Output B
→ Output C
Single Mode
Only the output at the specified Index receives the signal.
Index = 1:
Input → Link (Single) → Output 0 (silent)
→ Output 1 (receives signal)
→ Output 2 (silent)
Mask Mode
Each bit in the Mask value controls one output (bit 0 = output 0, etc.).
Mask = 5 (binary: 101):
Input → Link (Mask) → Output 0 (active - bit 0 is 1)
→ Output 1 (silent - bit 1 is 0)
→ Output 2 (active - bit 2 is 1)
Modulating Link Parameters
Connect an LFO or other modifier to the Link Node’s parameters for animated routing:
- Modulate Index → Cycles through outputs sequentially
- Modulate Mask → Creates rhythmic routing patterns
Visual Representation
In the Builder Canvas, Link Nodes show:
- All incoming connections
- All outgoing connections
- Current routing state (which outputs are active)
Connections appear visually “lit” when active.
Tips
- Use Single mode for effect switching (clean/distorted)
- Mask mode enables complex multi-bus routing
- Modulating the Index creates step-sequencer-like behavior
- Link Nodes work with both audio and modulation signals
- Chain Link Nodes for hierarchical routing logic
Example Uses
A/B Effect Switch
- Add Link Node after your Input
- Connect Output 0 to Effect Chain A
- Connect Output 1 to Effect Chain B
- Set Mode to Single
- Modulate or automate Index to switch
Parallel Processing Router
- Add Link Node in All mode
- Connect to multiple parallel effect chains
- All signals process simultaneously
Rhythmic Gate
- Add Link Node in Single mode
- Connect LFO to Index parameter
- Use Square wave LFO for on/off gating
- Only output at current index receives signal