VST plugins are software programs that can be added to a digital audio workstation (DAW) to enhance or modify the audio signal with sounds, effects, and other features. The benefit of VST plugins is that they allow music producers and audio engineers to manipulate audio signals in a variety of ways.
They can also be used to add virtual instruments, such as pianos, drums, and synthesizers, to a project.
VST plugins can be used to process audio in real time, making them a powerful tool for creating and manipulating music and sound. They are widely used in music production, sound design, and audio post-production.
How do VST Plugins Work?
VST plugins work by being loaded into a digital audio workstation (DAW) and being used to process or modify the audio signal in some way. The audio signal is the sound that is being recorded or played back in the DAW.
When a VST plugin is inserted into the audio signal chain, it can change the sound in various ways, such as by adding effects, altering the pitch or timbre of the sound, or synthesizing new sounds.
VST plugins can be used to add a wide range of capabilities to a DAW, such as creating electronic music, recording and editing vocals, or simulating the sound of real instruments.
To use a VST plugin, you first need to install it on your computer. Most VST plugins come in a zip file, which you can download from the internet and then unzip to an appropriate folder on your computer. Once installed, the plugin will appear in your DAW’s plugin menu, ready for you to use.
Using a VST plugin is simple. Just drag and drop the plugin onto a track in your DAW and start tweaking the parameters to shape the sound.
Many VST plugins come with a user interface that allows you to adjust the various parameters, such as the pitch, attack, and decay of a synthesizer, or the wet/dry mix of an effect.
So the next time you hear a killer synth line or a super tight drum beat in a song, chances are a VST plugin played a part in its creation. With a wide range of sounds and effects available, VST plugins are an essential tool for any music producer.
Here is our list of best VST plugins.
The Different Types of VST Plugins
VST plugins come in various types to suit different needs and goals.
Let’s see some of them.
Synthesizers
A VST synthesizer is a virtual instrument that uses computer software to generate and shape audio signals. It is a type of VST plugin that can be used within a digital audio workstation (DAW) to create synthesized sounds, such as basslines, leads, and pads.
VST synthesizers can be used to create a wide range of sounds, from classic analog synth tones to modern digital sounds.
They often come with a variety of controls and parameters, such as oscillators, filters, and envelopes, that can be used to shape and manipulate the sound.
VST synthesizers can be a powerful tool for music producers and audio engineers, allowing them to easily create and experiment with different sounds without the need for expensive hardware synthesizers. They can also be used to recreate classic synth sounds or create entirely new and unique sounds.
Drum machines
A VST drum machine plugin is a virtual instrument that can be used within a digital audio workstation (DAW) to add drum sounds and rhythms to a music project.
VST drum machine plugins can be used to add electronic drum sounds, acoustic drum sounds, or a combination of both to a track. They can also be used to create custom drum patterns and rhythms, making it easy to add a beat to a song or piece of music.
Using a VST drum machine plugin can be an efficient way for music producers and audio engineers to add drum sounds and rhythms to their projects. They can save time by using pre-made drum sounds and patterns, or they can create their own custom drum sounds and rhythms using the plugin’s features.
Effects
There are many different types of VST effects plugins available, including reverb, delay, EQ, compression, and many more. These effects can be used to alter the sound of a track in various ways, such as adding echo or making the vocals sound louder.
Using VST effects plugins can help music producers and audio engineers to create professional-sounding music and audio without having to rely on expensive physical equipment. They can also be used to experiment with different sounds and effects, making it easier to find the perfect sound for a particular project.
Samplers
A sampler VST plugin is a type of virtual instrument that allows users to play and manipulate audio samples within their digital audio workstation (DAW). A sample is a small piece of audio that has been recorded from a real instrument or sound source.
Sampler VST plugins work by loading these samples into the plugin and then allowing the user to play the samples using a MIDI keyboard or other controller. The user can adjust the pitch, volume, and other characteristics of the sample as they play it, allowing them to create unique and customized sounds.
Sampler VST plugins can be used to create a wide range of sounds, from realistic instruments to futuristic synthesizers. They can also be used to create sound effects and soundscapes, and are often used in electronic music production.
Virtual instruments
Virtual instruments are software programs that mimic the sound of real-life musical instruments. They are often used in music production and audio engineering to add virtual instruments to a project without having to use physical instruments. Virtual instruments can be played using a keyboard or other MIDI controller, and can be programmed to produce a wide range of sounds and styles.
They can be used to add virtual pianos, drums, synthesizers, and many other types of instruments to a project.
The use of virtual instrument plugins can allow music producers and audio engineers to create professional-sounding music and audio without having to invest in expensive instruments. Using them makes it easier to find the perfect sound for a project by experimenting with different sounds.
The Different Types of VST Plugin Formats
VST plugins come in a variety of formats to suit different needs and preferences.
Let’s see some of them.
VST
VST is an acronym for Virtual Studio Technology. It is a software interface that allows audio editors and digital audio workstations (DAWs) to communicate with each other. Essentially, it allows you to use different audio effects and instruments in your audio editing software.
There are many types of VST plugins available, including virtual instruments, effects processors, and utility plugins. Virtual instruments are digital versions of real-life instruments that you can play through your computer. Effects processors allow you to add various effects to your audio, such as reverb or delay. Utility plugins can help you organize and manage your audio files.
To use a VST plugin, you will need to install it into your DAW. This process is usually straightforward and involves simply dragging and dropping the plugin into the appropriate folder. Once it is installed, you can access the plugin from within your DAW and use it on your audio tracks.
One thing to keep in mind is that not all VST plugins are compatible with all DAWs. Some plugins may only work with specific software, so it’s important to check compatibility before purchasing a plugin.
VST3
VST3 is the third generation of Steinberg’s popular VST plugin format and offers a number of improvements over its predecessor, VST2. Some of the key features of VST3 include:
- Improved performance: VST3 plugins are designed to be more efficient and use less processing power, resulting in improved performance and stability.
- Enhanced audio routing: VST3 plugins offer more flexible and powerful audio routing options, allowing you to route audio between different tracks and buses in your DAW more easily.
- Advanced automation: VST3 plugins support more advanced automation options, such as breakpoint automation and input/output channel routing.
- Improved user interface: VST3 plugins offer a more modern and customizable user interface, making it easier to tweak the various parameters and settings.
Using VST3 plugins is similar to using VST2 plugins. Just download the plugin from the internet, install it on your computer, and then load it into your DAW. Most DAWs that support VST2 also supports VST3, and once installed, the plugin will appear in your DAW’s plugin menu, ready for you to use.
So the next time you’re looking for the latest and greatest plugin technology for your DAW, consider using VST3 plugins. With their improved performance, enhanced audio routing, advanced automation, and improved user interface, these virtual studio tools are sure to bring a new level of power and creativity to your music.
AU
AU (Audio Units) is a plugin format developed by Apple for use with its macOS and iOS operating systems. It allows you to add new sounds and effects to your DAW and is supported by a wide range of software products.
Using AU plugins is simple. Just download the plugin from the internet, install it on your computer, and then load it into your DAW. Most DAWs that support AU plugins have a designated folder where you can install them, and once installed, the plugin will appear in your DAW’s plugin menu, ready for you to use.
There are many different types of AU plugins available, ranging from synthesizers and drum machines to effects like reverb and delay. Some AU plugins are designed to recreate the sounds of classic analog synthesizers, while others are designed to create completely new and unique sounds.
So the next time you’re looking to expand the capabilities of your DAW on a macOS or iOS system, consider using AU plugins. With a wide range of sounds and effects at your fingertips, these virtual studio tools are sure to bring a new level of creativity to your music production.
RTAS
RTAS (Real-Time Audio Suite) is a plugin format developed by Avid specifically for use with its Pro Tools DAW. It allows you to add new sounds and effects to your Pro Tools sessions and is supported by a wide range of software products.
Using RTAS plugins is simple. Just download the plugin from the internet, install it on your computer, and then load it into your Pro Tools session. Most RTAS plugins come with an installer that will automatically place the plugin in the correct location, and once installed, the plugin will appear in your Pro Tools plugin menu, ready for you to use.
There are many different types of RTAS plugins available, ranging from synthesizers and drum machines to effects like reverb and delay. Some RTAS plugins are designed to recreate the sounds of classic analog synthesizers, while others are designed to create completely new and unique sounds.
If you’re looking to expand the capabilities of your Pro Tools DAW, consider using RTAS plugins.
AAX
AAX (Avid Audio eXtension) is a plugin format developed by Avid as a replacement for its older RTAS (Real-Time Audio Suite) plugin format. It is specifically designed for use with Pro Tools and allows you to add new sounds and effects to your Pro Tools sessions.
One of the key advantages of AAX plugins is their improved performance and stability. They are designed to be more efficient and use less processing power, resulting in a smoother and more seamless experience when using them in your Pro Tools sessions.
Using AAX plugins is similar to using RTAS plugins. Just download the plugin from the internet, install it on your computer, and then load it into your Pro Tools session. Most AAX plugins come with an installer that will automatically place the plugin in the correct location, and once installed, the plugin will appear in your Pro Tools plugin menu, ready for you to use.
History of VST Plugins
The history of VST plugins dates back to the late 1990s when German software company Steinberg Media Technologies introduced the first VST plugin format. This new technology allowed audio professionals to use software plugins to enhance their audio recording and production processes.
Prior to the introduction of VST plugins, audio professionals had to rely on hardware-based processors and effects units to shape and enhance the sound of their audio recordings. These hardware units were expensive and required physical connections to work with audio equipment.
The ability to use software-based VST plugins revolutionized the way audio professionals worked, as they could now use virtual effects and processors to shape their audio without the need for physical hardware. This made the process of recording and producing music much more convenient and cost-effective.
Since their introduction, VST plugins have become a standard feature in many DAW software programs, including popular platforms like Pro Tools, Logic, and Ableton Live. There are now thousands of different VST plugins available, ranging from virtual instrument plugins to effect plugins and more.
VST plugins have also helped to democratize the music industry, as they have made it easier for independent musicians and producers to create professional-quality audio recordings without the need for expensive hardware. This has helped to create a vibrant music scene with a diverse range of artists and genres.
