A VST3 plugin is a type of software used in digital audio workstations (DAWs) to process audio or MIDI data. VST, which stands for Virtual Studio Technology, was created by Steinberg. Steinberg Media Technologies GmbH (trading as Steinberg) is a German musical software and hardware company based in Hamburg. VST3 is the third version of this standard, offering several improvements over its predecessors (VST and VST2).
VST3 plugin locations
Windows
On Windows, VST3 plugins are usually stored in a dedicated system folder:
- Default Location:
C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3
macOS
On macOS, VST3 plugins are typically stored in a shared system folder:
- Default Location:
/Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST3
Before installing a VST plugin into a custom location, please ensure that your DAW supports custom locations for VST plugins. Some DAWs and installers allow you to specify custom locations for VST3 plugins. If you specify a custom location during installation or setup, you must include that directory in your DAW’s plugin scanner. Check your DAW’s documentation or settings to verify that it supports VST3 custom locations.
