MaxMSP

Max/MSP is a visual programming language for music and multimedia. It combines three integrated components: Max, a graphical dataflow language for control and timing; MSP, a companion library for real-time audio synthesis, processing, and analysis; and Jitter, a library for video, 3D graphics, and matrix data. Developed by Cycling ’74, it runs on macOS and Windows and is used to build interactive applications, live performance setups, installations, and sound design tools.

In Max, users create patchers by placing objects on a canvas and connecting them with patch cords. Objects perform operations, route messages, manage timing, or interface with gear such as MIDI controllers. Inlets and outlets define data flow between objects. MSP extends Max with audio-rate objects for synthesis, effects, and signal routing; Jitter adds video and matrix processing. Gen provides a way to write custom, high-performance DSP code within the environment.

Historically, Max originated at IRCAM in the 1980s as a graphical programming language developed by Miller Puckette; Opcode later released versions; Cycling ’74 acquired the rights and released Max/MSP with MSP and Jitter in the early 2000s. Today, it is widely used by composers, performers, developers, and educators. It supports MIDI, OSC, serial I/O, and audio input, and can operate as a standalone application or as a device within Ableton Live via Max for Live.

The platform ships with extensive documentation, tutorials, and a library of externals and patches; a robust community contributes plugins and example patches, and new features are added through regular updates.