Realtime audio analysis with GarageBand + Schope AU

If you're using a Mac and looking for a realtime audio analyzer, you can use Schope's AU version (free evaluation) with GarageBand (also free). I'm doing some low-pass and high-pass filter tests on the Virus C and I was trying to figure out how to plug it in directly to my computer and see a graph as I make adjustments to the sound. Audacity wasn't letting me start Schope without opening an audio file for some reason, so I started looking for different VST host. Finally I read somewhere that GarageBand can also be used as a VST host, so I tried that and it worked. It's pretty simple to set up.

First, get the lastest version of Schope from the Stillwell Audio website and download the AU version.

After you've downloaded Schope, drop the component in:
Library > Audio > Plug-ins > Components

Next, plug in your synth to the audio-in jack of your Mac and go to your System Preferences to make sure that the sound is coming in ok. When you hit a key on your synth, the input level meter should respond even if you don't hear anything.

Next, start up GarageBand and go to Preferences and click on the Audio/Midi button. I set my input to built-in input and the output to built-in output.

Next, create a new track by clicking on the big plus icon at the lower left and select Real Instrument Track.

When the new track appears, the info panel on the right should slide open. Activate the monitor so you can hear the incoming audio.

Next, click on Details to get to the effects section.

Click on the dropdown list and scroll all the way down until you see Schope.

Finally, click on the pencil icon on the right to launch Schope.

That should launch the Schope window and you should immediately see a live feed. If you start playing notes on your synth, the graph should respond in realtime. You should also be able to hear the incoming audio on your Mac if you have your headphones or speaker turned up. I set the "Mode" knob on the bottom left to 12 o'clock to get the frequency view.