Most Sonnox plug‑ins are available in two main formats: Native and HDX. Choosing the right one depends on your audio interface, DAW, and workflow requirements. This guide explains the differences, the benefits of each, and what to consider before purchasing. It also covers switching between formats after purchase.

Prerequisites

• A DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) that supports one or both formats.

• Knowledge of your audio hardware setup — particularly if you use an Avid Pro Tools | HDX system.

• A Sonnox account to manage licences and upgrades.

Understanding the Formats

Native

• Runs on your computer’s CPU.

• Works in most DAWs — Pro Tools (Native), Logic Pro, Cubase, Ableton Live, Studio One, etc.

• Supports AAX Native, VST3, AU formats.

• Ideal for producers, mixers, and engineers working without an Avid HDX card.

• Offers full plug‑in functionality but depends on computer CPU performance.

HDX

• Runs on dedicated Avid DSP hardware (HDX or HD Native cards).

• Available as AAX DSP format.

• Enables near‑zero latency recording and monitoring in Pro Tools | HDX systems.

• Frees up computer CPU for other processing tasks.

• Essential for professional HDX‑based studio environments.

Feature Comparison Table

Choosing the Right Format

• Choose Native if:

  • You don’t have an Avid HDX card.

  • You use multiple DAWs or work primarily outside Pro Tools | HDX.

  • You want maximum flexibility and portability.

• Choose HDX if:

  • You have an Avid Pro Tools | HDX or HD Native system.

  • You need ultra‑low latency for tracking and monitoring.

  • You want DSP offload to free up your computer’s CPU.

Switching or Upgrading Formats

• Sonnox offers crossgrade options if you later need the other format.

• You keep your existing licence and pay only the difference in price (plus any applicable upgrade fee).

• Login to your Sonnox account, or reach out to Support for assistance with Native ↔ HDX upgrades.

Troubleshooting / FAQs

Q: Will AAX-DSP plugins run without an HDX card?
A: No. AAX-DSP plugins will run as AAX-native if there is no available 2Avid DSP hardware.

Q: Do HDX licences only allow me to use AAX-DSP?
A: No. All HDX licences also come with a Native licence.

Q. Do HDX licences include TDM for Pro Tools 10 HD and earlier?

A: If you require a TDM licence, you'll need to purchase an HDX licence and reach out to our support team. 

Related Articles / Links

• [Sonnox Plug‑in System Requirements]

• [Upgrading from Native to HDX]

• [Pro Tools | HDX Overview – Avid Website]