How to Install VST Plugins

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This wikiHow will teach you how to install virtual studio technology (VST) plug-ins. Luckily adding VST plug-ins to your favorite audio software isn't complicated. You'll just need to locate the VST plug-in directory you want to use using your audio software and then download the file. The steps below will walk you through exactly what you need to do.

1

Install your favorite audio software on your computer.

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  1. This can be a full suite like Ableton Live or freeware such as Audacity or VST Host. This demonstration will use Ableton Live.
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2

Locate your VST plug-in directory.

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  1. Ableton Live requires you to do this manually, like so:
    • Go to the "Options" menu and select "Preferences".
    • Under "Preferences", select the "File Folder" menu.
    • Click the "Browse" button next to "VST Plug-In Custom Folder".
    • Select the folder you would like Ableton to use for VST Plug-Ins.
    • Confirm that the "Use VST Plug-In Custom Folder" option is turned on, and the file path listed under "VST Plug-In Custom Folder" leads to the folder you just selected.
3

Download a VST plugin.

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  1. Most VST plugins come in the form of a Zip file.
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4

Move the downloaded file to your VST directory.

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5

Extract the ZIP file.

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  1. You can double-click the file to unpack if it you're using a Mac. If you're using Windows, right-click the file, choose Extract All , then select your VST directory to extract.
    • After this, you can delete the Zip file, or keep a backup in a different folder if you like.
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6

Reopen your audio software.

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  1. Once you restart, the plugin will be ready to use.

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