StemRoller. It's an AI-powered toolthat takes an mp3 and separates each instrument into its own file. Im a musician, and having access to stems like this is a game changer.
Carla is a tool for hosting VST plugins without the need for a full DAW. I primarily use Amp Simulators, and this has become a mandatory tool on any computer I use. It's also maintained by the creator of KXStudio.
Just downloaded and tried StemRoller. Definitely impressed, I'd say it works marginally better than any of the "free" (aka trial version, need to pay for full features) stem separators I've tried online, so very happy to find this!
Both of these sound interesting, though I can't really think of a use for running vsts without a DAW. For a moment I thought it would be nice to play synth without opening a daw, but if I decide to record something I played I have to set it all up again.
I use Ampsims nearly exclusively. When I'm practising or just noodling I don't have any intention to record. Carla has a much smaller footprint than a standard DAW, and therefore less energy usage.
Keep in mind I'm a string instrument player primarily. I don't play with synths or anything like that.