Installing Third-Party Audio Unit Plugins in GarageBand for Mac: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 26/06/2025

Expand your GarageBand sound with third-party Audio Unit (AU) plugins! This step-by-step guide shows you how to seamlessly integrate these powerful tools into your Mac's GarageBand. From downloading the plugin to verifying its installation, we'll cover everything you need to know. Unlock a world of new sounds and effects – let's get started on transforming your music production workflow.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Download the Plugin

    • Find and download a compatible AU plugin. Ensure it's in the AU format for Mac compatibility.
    Find and download a compatible AU plugin. Ensure it's in the AU format for Mac compatibility.
    Download the Plugin

  2. Install the Plugin

    • Locate the downloaded installer file in your downloads folder.
    • Double-click the installer package to begin installation.
    • If a security message appears, go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Allow Apps Downloaded From, and select 'App Store and identified developers'. You may need to enter your password.
    If a security message appears, go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Allow Apps Downloaded From, and select 'App Store and identified developers'. You may need to enter your password. If a security message appears, go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Allow Apps Downloaded From, and select 'App Store and identified developers'. You may need to enter your password. If a security message appears, go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Allow Apps Downloaded From, and select 'App Store and identified developers'. You may need to enter your password.
    Install the Plugin

  3. Enable Audio Units in GarageBand

    • Open GarageBand.
    • Check that Audio Units are enabled in GarageBand Preferences > Audio > Allow Audio Units.
    Check that Audio Units are enabled in GarageBand Preferences > Audio > Allow Audio Units.
    Enable Audio Units in GarageBand

  4. Apply the Plugin in GarageBand

    • Select the track where you want to use the plugin.
    • Open Smart Controls (either via the icon or keyboard shortcut 'B').
    • Go to the Plugins drop-down menu, choose Audio Units, navigate to your plugin (e.g., Blue Cat), and select it.
    Go to the Plugins drop-down menu, choose Audio Units, navigate to your plugin (e.g., Blue Cat), and select it. Go to the Plugins drop-down menu, choose Audio Units, navigate to your plugin (e.g., Blue Cat), and select it. Go to the Plugins drop-down menu, choose Audio Units, navigate to your plugin (e.g., Blue Cat), and select it.
    Apply the Plugin in GarageBand
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Tips

  • Consider downloading Blue Cat Audio's excellent freeware pack.
  • You don't need an account to download the Blue Cat plugins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Plugin Not Showing Up in GarageBand

Reason: The Audio Unit plugin might not be installed correctly in the correct location, or GarageBand's plugin scan might have failed.
Solution: Restart GarageBand and/or your Mac, and ensure the plugin is correctly installed in the designated Audio Unit plugins folder (Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/Components).

2. Plugin Crashes GarageBand

Reason: The plugin might be incompatible with GarageBand's version or your Mac's operating system, or there could be a conflict with other plugins.
Solution: Try reinstalling the plugin, updating GarageBand, or temporarily disabling other plugins to isolate the problem.

FAQs

Where do I download third-party AU plugins?
Many reputable websites offer AU plugins. Always download from trusted sources to avoid malware. Popular options include plugin developers' websites, reputable online stores (like Plugin Boutique or Audio Plugin Deals), and some digital audio workstation (DAW) forums.
My plugin isn't showing up in GarageBand. What should I do?
First, verify the plugin is a compatible AUv3 (or AU) format. Then, check your GarageBand preferences (GarageBand > Preferences > Audio Units) to ensure the correct plugins folder is selected. Restart GarageBand and your computer if necessary. If the plugin is still missing, try reinstalling it.
What happens if I install a plugin that's incompatible with my version of GarageBand?
Incompatible plugins might not show up in GarageBand's plugin list. If you try to use an incompatible plugin, GarageBand may crash or experience unexpected behavior. Always check the plugin's system requirements before installing it to ensure compatibility with your GarageBand version and macOS.