A NixOS module providing high-level configuration for real-time audio work, including kernel optimization and low-level system tuning.
musnix is a NixOS module that configures the operating system for real-time audio work. It optimizes the kernel, applies real-time patches, and adjusts low-level system settings to achieve low-latency audio processing. It provides a high-level, declarative interface for audio professionals and enthusiasts using NixOS.
Audio engineers, musicians, and developers using NixOS who need reliable low-latency audio for music production, live performance, or audio software development.
Developers choose musnix because it integrates real-time audio configuration directly into NixOS's declarative system, making audio optimizations reproducible, version-controlled, and easy to manage alongside other system configurations.
Real-time audio in NixOS
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Handles CONFIG_PREEMPT_RT for kernels >=6.12 and provides RT-patched packages for older versions, eliminating manual patch application.
Sets CPU governor, swappiness, udev rules, and PAM limits in a reproducible NixOS configuration, tailored for audio workloads.
Configures environment variables and user directories for VST, LV2, LADSPA, and other formats, ensuring plugin detection by DAWs.
Includes optional das_watchdog service to prevent real-time process hangs and rtcqs for system analysis, enhancing reliability.
Only works on NixOS, making it inaccessible for users on other Linux distributions or operating systems, limiting its utility.
Enabling real-time options triggers a full kernel rebuild, which is time-consuming and may fail or cause instability on some hardware.
For kernels older than 6.12, musnix relies on its overlay for pre-patched packages, which may lag behind mainline updates or lack support for all versions.