Как подключить vst плагин к windows

In this Installing VST Plugins on Windows tutorial, we will cover an easy step-by-step tutorial guide explaining what to do to install the VST plugins to your workstation (PC)

When it comes to installing VST plugins to your Windows desktop PC that can be quite tricky as this includes a .exe or .dll VST plugin file.

You will need to make sure your software is installed correctly on your workstation (.exe or .dll), both of these will install differently on your computer. (VST plugins come in either .exe or .dll file format)

1. Installing .exe VST Plugins
2. Installing .dll VST Plugins

1. Installing .exe VST plugins to your workstation (PC)

EXE and automatic installation VST plugins (these require one click to start the installer process)
If you have an EXE file extension of the VST plugin installer, then it will be super easy to install the vst plugin on your desktop PC.

For example, here we have the OB-XD VST Plugin, when the installation file is clicked on, you will need to complete the installation process.

As you can see in the image above the location is set up automatically by the installer itself, in our case its location is;

C:\Program Files\Steinberg\VstPlugins\discoDSP

Now most VST Plugins will be installed inside the “Program Files” & “VstPlugins” folders
Other location installers might automatically install your VST plugins

VST2 plug-ins: C:\Program Files\VSTPlugins
VST3 plug-ins: C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3
VST plug-ins (32-bit): C:\Program Files (x86)\VSTPlugins

In this case, you will not need to do anything else.

Just run the installer and boom you have successfully installed your VST plugin!

You will now need to find out how to enable your VST inside your DAW such as FL Studio, Cubase, or logic pro or other DAWs available.

Good luck!

2. Installing DLL File-based VST Plugins

Dll File-based VST Plugins don’t have an automatic one-click installer like .exe file-based VST Plugins.
This is what a .dll file-based VST Plugin looks like;

As you can see from the image above, .dll files don’t look too appealing. Dll VST plugins can’t be automatically run like .exe VST plugins.

If you try and double-click on the .dll VST plugin file you will get an error message, that the file could be unsafe.

However, this file is safe!

What you will need to do is manually move the VST plugins (DLL file) into the right location on your PC.

To do this you will need to.

Start by going to your computer’s file location. and click on (C) Drive (local disk c)
Go to “This PC” and then select “Local Disk (C)” highlighted in red below.

then select “program files”

Then locate a folder named “VstPlugins” inside “program files”

You might need to scroll down a bit to find it! as this folder contains all your software for your Windows Desktop PC.

You will then see many .dll VST Plugin files inside this folder.

You will then need to go back to your installation file and copy and paste it over to this location.

first, you will need to copy the vst plugin .dll file, so go back to your download folder, and copy the VST plugin .dll file.

Right-click with your mouse over the file and select “copy”, highlighted in red below;

Then go back to your VstPlugin folder inside your program files

C:\Program Files\VstPlugins

Then right-click and select “Paste”

This will copy and paste the .dll Vst Plugin in your VST plugin folder which can be used by FL Studio.

You might then see a notification for administrator permission, simply select “Continue”

And boom! your VST plugin has been installed!

If your VST Plugin still doesn’t load up or won’t work, then simply follow all these steps again, but this time copy and paste the .dll file into the “Program Files (x86)” VstPlugins folder.

C:\Program Files (x86)\VstPlugins

As the .dll file might be x86 installation only.
And Boom!
You will now need to find out how to enable your VST inside your DAW such as FL Studio, Cubase, or logic pro or other DAWs available.
Good luck!

Don’t miss out!
We also have other cool FL studio tutorials here at producersbuzz, check them out below!

• How To Make a Clear Producer Voice Tag in FL Studio (+Free FL Presets)
• Church Choir Effect Using Avox Choir VST PLugin in FL Studio
• 2 Cool XXXTentacion Inspired Drum Patterns in FL Studio Tutorial
• Making 808 Sub Bass Hit Harder in FL Studio (Step-by-Step Tutorial)

Here is a helpful guide with video tutorials on how to install VST plugins on Windows, Mac, FL Studio, Audacity, Reaper, and more.

1. How to Install VST Plugins
2. Windows
3. FL Studio
4. Garageband
5. Audacity
6. Reaper
7. LMMS
8. Ableton Live
9. Linux
10. Host Windows VST Plugins On Mac

1. Download the VST plugin to your computer.
2. Extract the zip file.
3. Copy the .dll or .component file to the VST plugin folder.
4. Restart the music program.
5. Rescan your plugin directory in the music software.
6. Add a new track with the newly installed VST plugin.

Those are the general steps for installing VST plugins in most music programs.

Below, you will find more detailed guides for installing VST plugins in different music software and various operating systems.

Also, our website has tons of articles with free VST plugins to add more virtual instruments and audio effects to your music production setup.

Картинка с сайта: hiphopmakers.com

How to Install VST Plugins on Windows

This video covers the basic installation process for VST plugins on Windows computers.

Instructions to Install a VST Plugin on Windows:

1. Download the VST to your computer.
2. Unzip the VST file.
3. Copy the .dll file to the VST plugin folder. This folder may be named differently.
4. Rescan your plugin directory in your music software.
5. Search your music program for the VST plugin.

The VST plugin folder can appear in different locations on your computer.

Common VST Folders on Windows (*.dll)

• C:/Program Files/VSTPlugins/
• C:/Program Files/Steinberg/VstPlugins/
• C:/Program Files/Common Files/Steinberg/Shared Components/
• C:/Program Files/Common Files/VST2
• C:/Program Files/Common Files/VSTPlugins/

How to Install VST Plugins in FL Studio

Here is a brief summary of how to install plugins in FL Studio:

1. Download the VST to your computer.
2. Unzip the VST file.
3. Copy the .dll file to your VST plugin folder. This folder may be named differently for you.
4. In FL Studio, click Channels up top and click the Refresh button to scan your VST plugin folder.
5. Look for the new VST plugin you added and check the box next to it. Done!

Step-By-Step Process

Step 1: Download the VST plugin

Find a VST plugin that you want to use. There are many available online, both free and paid. To avoid any potential issues, you download the plugin from a trusted source.

Step 2: Install the VST plugin

To install the VST plugin, double-click on the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions. Most plugins will install in a default location, like your Program Files folder. Make a note of where it’s being installed, as you’ll need this information later.

Step 3: Open FL Studio

Next, launch your FL Studio software. You’ll find it wherever you’ve saved it on your computer.

Step 4: Find the Plugin Manager

In FL Studio, click on the “Options” menu at the top of the screen, and then select “Manage Plugins.” This will open the Plugin Manager.

Step 5: Set Your Vst Plugin Folder

In the Plugin Manager, you’ll see a section marked “Plugin search paths.” This is where FL Studio will look for your plugins. Click the “Add path” button, then navigate to where you installed your VST plugin in Step 2. Once you’ve done this, click “OK.”

Step 6: Scan for New Plugins

Now, click the “Find Plugins” button in the Plugin Manager. FL Studio will scan the folders you’ve specified for any new plugins. This could take a moment, so be patient!

Step 7: Enable the Plugin

Once the scan is complete, you’ll see a list of all your installed plugins. Find the one you’ve just installed and check the box next to its name to enable it.

Step 8: Use Your New Plugin

Congratulations, your new plugin is now ready to use! To find it, go back to the main FL Studio screen and click on the “Channel Rack.” Then click the “+” button to add a new channel. In the list that appears, you should see your new plugin. Click on its name to start using it.

Remember, every VST plugin is different. Some might have their own special installation instructions, so always read the information provided by the plugin developer.

How to Host Windows VST Plugins on a Mac

This video shows you how to run Windows .dll VST plugins. You will need to install the VFX Host Software on your Mac and a program called SoundFlower.

How to Install VST Plugins in Garageband

Here are the easy steps to add plugins:

1. Copy the plugin’s .component file here: Finder > Macintosh HD > Library > Audio > Plugins > Components.
2. Turn off and then turn on your computer.
3. Open Garageband and make a new “Software Instrument” track.
4. Choose the instrument you just added.
5. If you see a security alert, go to Apple Preferences > Security & Privacy, click “Allow Anyway”, then add the instrument in Garageband again.

Common VST Folders on Mac OS (*.vst)

• /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST/
• ~/Library/Audio/Plug-ins/VST/

Related: How to Add Plugins to Garageband

How to Install VST Plugins in Audacity

Audacity is an excellent audio editing software.

How to Install VST Plugins to Reaper

Simplified process for installing plugins in the Reaper music program.

1. Close the Reaper music program.
2. Download and copy the VST plugin DLL to your VST plugin folder.
3. Open the Reaper program.
4. Insert a new track.
5. Click effects on the new track, and the VST should appear.

How to Install VST Plugins in LMMS

Here are the basic steps to follow to install plugins in Linux MultiMedia Studio.

1. Copy the DLL file to your VST plugin folder.
2. In LMMS, go to Edit > Settings > Folder Icon.
3. Update the VST file path to where you saved the DLL file.
4. Restart the LMMS music program.
5. You should now be able to see the VST plugin in LMMS.

This video tutorial will show you how to install VST plugins in the LMMS music app.

How to Install VST Plugins in Ableton Live

Here is a summary of the process for installing plugins in Ableton Live.

1. Download the VST plugin to your computer and unzip it.
2. Copy the DLL file to the VST plugin folder, or if there is an Installer app, install the VST to the VST plugin folder.
3. Once done, launch Ableton Live.
4. In Ableton Live, go to Preferences > Plug-Ins > Plug-In Sources
5. Set Use Custom Folder to “On”. Click the browse button to select the folder you selected during installation.
6. Ableton will scan the VST folder, and the plugin should appear.

How to Install VST Plugins On Linux

Common VST Folders on Linux:

• /usr/lib/vst/
• /usr/lib/linux_vst/
• /usr/lib/lxvst/
• /usr/lib64/vst/
• /usr/lib/linux_vst/

Where Do I Put VST Plugins?

The most common location for VST plugins on Windows computers is C:/Program Files/VSTPlugins/ or C:/Program Files/Steinberg/VstPlugins/

Other possible locations include:

• C:/Program Files/Common Files/Steinberg/Shared Components/
• C:/Program Files/Common Files/VST2
• C:/Program Files/Common Files/VSTPlugins/

What Is A VST Folder?

The VST folder is a common folder on your computer where music programs will scan for installed VST plug-ins and instruments. Your music program may create this folder by default, or you may need to create the folder. Most music programs allow you to select and change the VST folder location under the program’s settings.

Installing VST plugins can seem challenging at first, but with the right steps, you’ll be able to add new sounds to your music in no time. Let’s quickly go over what I’ve learned.

To start with, the process of adding plugins involves finding the plugin files, which often come in a zip file, and then unzipping them to reveal the virtual instruments or VST effects you’ve chosen. Depending on your operating system, whether you’re using Windows or a Mac, these plugin formats may be different. For instance, you might encounter VST format on Windows and Audio Units on Mac.

Next, it’s important to choose a dedicated installation path for your new plugins. This is a specific place on your computer where you’ll store all your plugin files. Once you’ve set this up, you’ll just have to click ‘browse’ in your music software’s plugin manager to find and install the plugins.

Remember, you can install the same plugin in different music software, like FL Studio and Ableton. Each software has its own way of adding audio plug-ins, but usually, it involves opening the plugin manager and following the prompts to install your new plugin.

Finally, once you’ve installed your favorite plugins, you’ll be able to use them to create amazing music. Whether it’s your first time installing VST plug-ins or you’re adding to your collection, these steps will help you use virtual studio technology to bring your sounds to life.

So don’t be intimidated! Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to installing your new plugins and using them to create some truly amazing music.

I hope you find these tutorials on how to install VST plugins helpful.

You may like the following free VST plugins and tools:

• 100 Fee Drum VST Plugins
• 90 Best Piano VST Plugins
• 100 Free Synth VST Plugins
• 55 Free String VST Plugins
• Free VST Host Applications
• What Is A VST Plugin

If you are using a Digital Audio Workstation (DAWs) for the first time, you are probably wondering how to install VST plugins.

But before we get to that, let’s quickly explain what a VST plugin is.

A Virtual Studio Technology plugin, or VST, is software that can be “plugged into” existing DAW programs. This gives you access to extra sounds, effects, and features not found in the original software.

VSTs allow you to create practically any sound you can think of and are a great way of leveling up your music production abilities.

In this article, we’ll explain how to install VST plugins in your DAW.

Specifically, we’ll cover:

• The different types of VSTs
• Important pre-installation steps
• The difference between installing VSTs on Windows vs. macOS
• Step-by-step instructions to install VSTs
• Instructions for a few of the most popular DAWs.

Let’s get straight into it!

Types of VST Plugins

VST Instruments

Sometimes called a VSTi, an instrument VST plugin generates sounds. It can emulate various real-world instruments within your digital workspace or synthesize sounds using a completely original DSP algorithm.

It can also use sampling to let you access a virtual guitar, piano, or drum kit in your digital audio workstation.

VST Effects

Effects VSTs let you alter audio in some way. This is achieved through interacting with the DSP of the audio to achieve a specific effect. Some examples of popular effects include reverb, chorus, compression, and EQ.

Often, your DAW will come with a few built-in effects, but these can be pretty limited.

MIDI Effects

VST MIDI plugins interact with MIDI data in some way, either independently or alongside other VSTs.

Usually, they perform tasks such as transposing or arpeggiating. VSTs are especially useful for improving the “artificial” sound that MIDI audio sometimes has and making it sound more natural.

VST plugin Pre-Installation Process

Choosing the Right VST Plugin

This really depends on your specific needs.

Generally, free plugins tend to receive fewer updates and support patches, meaning they may break as your DAW is updated.

This isn’t a rule, and there are many high-quality freeware plugins out there, but keep in mind that not all free VSTs are maintained as their commercial counterpart.

To find the right plugin, you should experiment to find the ones you like best.

System Requirements for Installing VST Plugins

Most popular DAWs support VSTs.

However, your hardware may limit which plugins you’re able to use. They can be pretty demanding on your computer, depending on what they do.

Most plugins will specify their system requirements on their download page.

Where to Download VST Plugins

There are plenty of places you can get VST plugins online. However, when downloading anything from the internet, you put yourself at risk of viruses.

Ensure that you only download files from trusted sites. You should also use antivirus software to scan any files you download before activating or installing them.

If you’re worried, here are some trusted developer and seller websites where you can access VSTs:

• XLN Audio
• Native Instruments
• Plugin Boutique
• Spitfire Audio
• Plugin Alliance
• Waves
• Valhalla
• iZotope

How to Install VST Plugins on Different Operating Systems

When you install a VST plugin, it will typically be placed in a dedicated VST folder on your computer’s hard drive.

This is the folder that your DAW will scan to find new plugins. You can use the same folder for several DAWs.

If you’re using an automatic plugin installer, ensure that the destination folder is designated in your DAW’s settings.

VST plugin file extensions

You can recognize different plugin formats by their file extensions. Plugins typically use one of the following extensions:

• .vst
• .au
• .vst3
• .dll

Installing VST Plugins on Windows

Automatic Installation Process

This is the easiest way to install VST plugins, but it is only available if they come with an installer.

If they do, all you need to do is double-click the installer to open it and then follow the on-screen instructions. Make sure to pay attention to the install location of the plugin and note this down.

Some plugin installers will extract the plugin to a folder that DAWs won’t detect by default. In this case, you must point your DAW to the correct folder.

Manual Installation Process

If your VST doesn’t have an installer, don’t panic! It’s still pretty easy to install.

All you need to do is place your VST into the dedicated VST plugins folder on your machine. On Windows, these are usually found in the following locations:

• Program Files\VSTPlugins
• Program Files\Steinberg\VSTPlugins
• Program Files\Common Files\VST 2
• Program Files\Common Files\Steinberg\VST2
• Program Files (x86)\Steinberg\VSTPlugins
• Program Files\Common Files\VST3
• Program Files (x86)\Common Files\VST3
• Program Files\Common Files\Steinberg\Shared Components

Remember that these folders will only show up if you’ve previously run your DAW. If you still can’t find any of them, you may need to make a folder yourself. Just name it “VST” and place it somewhere you’ll remember.

Installing VST Plugins on macOS

Standard Installation Process

This process is the same as on Windows machines and is still only available if the VST comes with an installer.

Just double-click the installer and follow its instructions. Take note of the installation location.

Manual Installation Process

On macOS, the default VST folders are found in the following locations:

• Library\Audio\Plug-Ins\VST
• Library\Audio\Plug-Ins\VST3
• Library\Audio\Plug-Ins\Components

Sometimes, the folder might end up in the <user> folder, which is invisible to the user by default. Ableton has a handy guide for accessing these folders if needed.

Configuring Your DAW to Recognize VST Plugins

How to Add VST Plugins to DAWs: Step by Step

Locate VST Plugin Folder

This should be easy if you used an installer and noted it down.

If not, you must search the above locations or create your own. When you do, note down the file path.

Copy or Install Plugin Files

Either use the installer or copy the plugin files into your dedicated folder. Make sure only to copy the actual plugin itself. It should have one of the file extensions we listed above.

Open DAW Preferences / Settings

Start up your DAW and open the preferences or settings menu. Inside this, there will be a Plugin Manager or Plugin section.

Specify VST Plugin Folder

Inside the plugin manager, you’ll find a list of file locations, where the DAW searches by default to find new plugins.

If your plugin folder is already here, you don’t need to do anything. If it isn’t, you should add it using the file address you noted down earlier.

Rescan for New Plugins

Find the “scan” or “rescan” button in your DAW.

It will start checking the files you specified for any new plugins. This could take a little while, so be patient.
Load the VST Plugins

Once the scan is done, your plugin should appear in the list. If it doesn’t, you might need to try restarting your DAW.

Next, click on the enable button or the checkbox next to your new plugin.

Configure Plugin Settings as Needed

Depending on the plugin, it may pop up with a setting window when you enable it. This allows you to change certain functions of the plugin as desired.

Use the Plugin in Your Project

Now, your plugin is installed! Simply add an instrument or effect track and select your new plugin from the menu.

You can now adjust your plugin parameters using the menus like any other instrument or effect.

Adding VST Plugins in Popular DAWs

Installing VST plugins in Pro Tools

Pro Tools works with the AAX version of plugins, so if your plugin gives you an option, choose this format.

Once your plugin is installed in the right folder, you can access it in a new session.

Just make a new track (mono or stereo both work fine), then go to the Mix window. Here, find the track mixer and click the first insert slot under Inserts A-E. A dropdown will appear.

Inside this, select Plug-In and then choose your new plugin from the list.

Installing VST plugins in Ableton Live

To change the plugin folder in Ableton Live, go to Options > Preferences > Plug-Ins > Plugin Sources. If you’re using version 10.1 or earlier, go to Options > Preferences > File / Folder > Plug-In Sources.

Then, change the VST2 and VST3 custom folder buttons to “On.” Now you can hit the Browse button to select a custom folder as needed.

Now you can scan for new plugins. Once this is done, they’ll be available in the program.

Installing VST plugins in FL Studio

To add a custom folder to FL Studio, go to Options > Manage Plugins. This will open the Plugin Manager.

On the left, you’ll see the Plugin Search Paths menu. If your folder is already here, you don’t need to change anything. Otherwise, hit the little folder + button in the top left. This will let you specify a new folder.

Once this is done, hit the Find More Plugins button. This will start the scan. When it’s finished, your plugin will be available in the main list of instruments and effects.

Installing VST plugins in Logic Pro X

Once you’ve added your plugin to the correct folder, Logic Pro X should detect this automatically on startup and bring up the AU Plugin Manager.

If your new plugin is an instrument, go to Add Tracks and select it from the list.

If the plugin is an effect, go to the Audio FX button on the Channel Strip, and find the Audio Units dropdown menu. From here, select your plugin.

Installing VST plugins in Cubase

The program will automatically scan any installed plugins from its default paths.

If you need to change to a custom folder, you can do this by going to the Studio menu, then to VST Plug-In Manager. In this window, click the cog icon on the bottom left, then hit the + icon. Now you can select your custom folder.

To start scanning, hit the Refresh button next to the search bar.

Now, you can load plugins from the Mix Console window, the same as any other instrument or effect.

Summary

VSTs open up an incredible amount of new possibilities for your music production.

The internet has an endless ocean of great plugins available, covering practically every instrument, effect, or function you could possibly need. Once you learn to use VST plugins, we’re sure you’ll come to love them as we do.

Hopefully, this article has given you the steps you need to start that journey!