VST Plugins: The Ultimate Guide [2023]

If you’re a music lover or producer, you must have come across Virtual Studio Technology (VST) plug-ins. These software instruments can replicate the sound of traditional instruments and more, allowing producers to create any sound imaginable. But what are virtual instruments called? Let’s dive into the world of VST plugins and explore everything there is to know about them.

What are VST Plugins?

VST plugins are software instruments that use digital signal processing to produce sound. They can emulate the sound of traditional instruments, such as pianos, guitars, drums, and orchestral instruments, or create entirely new sounds. VST plugins are available in different formats, such as VST, VST3, Audio Units (AU), and AAX.

Working Principle of VST Plugins

As mentioned earlier, VST plugins use digital signal processing to produce sound waves. They are loaded into a digital audio workstation (DAW) and can either be played live or recorded into a track. The DAW processes the MIDI data and converts it into audio signals that are then sent to the VST plugin for processing.

Synthesis

Synthesis is the process of creating sounds from scratch. VST plugins use different types of synthesis techniques like subtractive synthesis, additive synthesis, FM synthesis, and granular synthesis to create sound waves.

Subtractive Synthesis

Subtractive synthesis involves starting with a complex waveform and carving out unwanted harmonic content using filters to produce the desired sound.

Additive Synthesis

Additive synthesis involves combining multiple waveforms to create a more complex sound. It requires a considerable amount of processing power and is used to generate sounds that can’t be created with traditional instruments.

FM Synthesis

FM synthesis involves using one waveform to modulate the frequency of another waveform to create new sounds. FM synthesis is capable of creating complex tones that traditional instruments cannot produce.

Granular Synthesis

Granular synthesis involves dividing a sound into small audio grains and manipulating them to create new sounds. This technique can create unusual and unique sounds.

Sampling

Sampling involves recording real instruments and sounds and then processing them digitally. Samples can come from various sources like recordings of live instruments or sound effects.

Benefits of Sampling

• High-quality sounds
• Realistic sound
• Consistency in the sound produced

Drawbacks of Sampling

• Samples can take a lot of storage space
• Samples can be expensive
• Limited customization

Why Use VST Plugins

VST plugins offer several advantages over traditional instruments and even hardware synthesizers.

• They require less space as they are digital.
• They are more cost-effective than traditional instruments.
• They are less prone to damage and deterioration.
• They offer a wide range of sounds and customization options.

What are the Different Types of Virtual Instruments?

There are several types of virtual instruments, each with its unique features and benefits. Here are some of them:

• Synthesizers: These instruments use VST plugins to create unique and innovative sounds.
• Samplers: Samplers are instruments that use recorded samples to produce sounds.
• Drum Machines: Drum machines use pre-recorded drum samples to create beats. They offer drum sounds that emulate classic drum machines of the past.
• Orchestral Instruments: Orchestral plugins offer a rich library of orchestral instruments that come in handy when producing classical and cinematic music.

MIDI and DAW

MIDI, which stands for Musical Instrument Digital Interface, is a communication protocol used to send and receive digital signals. MIDI data can be used to trigger virtual instruments and effects. A DAW is a software application that allows you to record, edit, and produce music using virtual instruments.

Quick Tips and Facts

• The first VST plugin was created in 1996 by Steinberg.
• You can find thousands of plugins online, both free and paid.
• VST plugins can be used in popular DAWs like Pro Tools, Ableton Live, and Logic Pro.
• Virtual instruments offer a vast range of sounds and customization options that traditional instruments cannot produce.
• Virtual instruments help producers create music that would otherwise be challenging or impossible to create with traditional instruments.

FAQ

What is an example of a virtual instrument?

One example of a virtual instrument is the Native Instruments Kontakt sampler. It offers an extensive library of sampled instruments and sound effects.

What is MIDI and DAW?

MIDI is a communication protocol used to send and receive digital signals, while a DAW is a software application used to record, edit, and produce music.

What are the Pros and Cons of using VST Plugins?

Pros

• VST plugins offer a wide range of sounds and customization options.
• They are more cost-effective than traditional instruments.
• They are less prone to damage and deterioration.

Cons

• High-quality samples can take a lot of storage space.
• Samples can be expensive.
• Limited customization.

What are some recommendations for VST Plugins?

Some recommendable VST plugins for beginners include:

• Serum by Xfer Records
• Sylenth1 by LennarDigital
• Kontakt by Native Instruments

Conclusion

Virtual instruments have revolutionized the music industry, allowing producers to create any sound imaginable. In this guide, we’ve covered the basics of what VST plugins are, various synthesis techniques, advantages of using VST plugins, and different types of virtual instruments available. We’ve also answered some common questions about MIDI, DAW, and VST plugins. We hope this guide has offered some valuable insight into the world of VST plugins and helps you in your musical journey!