View source for VSTi


== What is a VST Instrument? ==


The VST (Virtual Studio Technology) system was developed by Steinberg to enable a complete studio to be created in software. 
It allowes third-party developers to produce real-time effect modules (VST or VST FX) or synth engines that are called VST Instruments (VSTi), that could 'plug in' to the host application.

So basically, a VSTi is a realtime software synthesizer.

Nowadays, there is a big quantities of third-party companies that are producing VST instruments plug-ins. Some have a very high sound quality, that can surpass their hardware alternative (Some are not so good).
Some are expensive, and some are free.

Good news, vArranger own a VST Host that can load and Play up to 16 VST Instruments.

 
== Requirements ==


When you press a note on your midi keyboard, the VSTi program is generating a sound, using the computer processor (CPU).
This operation need to be the faster as possible, (less than 10-15 milliseconds), so the player does not feel any latency.
Some VSTi are doing complex calculations, in a very short time. That's why using VST need usually a 'faster' computer. (Intel Core (i3) or i5 or i7 series is a good choice)
We also share this CPU power with all the running programs. So, it is better to avoid to install unneeded programs on a music computer.

The second point is that some VSTi are loading a big quantity of sampled sounds in the computer's memory (RAM). In case of using such VSTi, you need to have enough RAM installed in your computer. (4GB or 8GB is nice)

Some VST are playing the sounds directly from the Hard Drive. In such cases, a fast Hard drive 7200RPM or better a SSD disk is giving more comfort.

It's simple. If you the computer can't produce enough sound enough fast, you will hear some clics, or stuttering.


vArranger  (the VST host) receive the generated sound, and send it back to the PC sound card driver, then to your PC powered speakers, or headphones.

There is actually 2 kinds of sound cards.  Some are integrated inside your PC motherboard, and some can be optionally installed. They are professional sound cards with sometimes a better quality sound.

vArranger can communicate with the sound card using 3 different methods :

- '''DirectSound'''   ''Pros :'' Available on every computer, the sound can be used by different programs together.  ''Cons :'' It has too much latency and CAN'T be used for realtime synths. Only for MP3 playback.

- '''WASAPI'''   ''Pros :'' Low latency. Available on every computer since Windows Vista.  ''Cons :'' Not available on windows XP

- '''ASIO'''   ''Pros :'' Low latency.  ''Cons :'' ASIO drivers are only developed by the manufacturer for the professional sound cards.  

Note that there is a free software called ASIO4ALL [http://www.asio4all.com/], created by Michael Tippach, that installs a generic ASIO driver, working for every sound card. This is the only solution for low latency audio if you use Windows XP, without a dedicated pro sound card.

''Note that sometimes, different access methods may result in a difference in term of audio sound or performances. In case of problems, it can be useful to test the different options ASIO <=> ASIO4ALL <=> WASAPI, to find the best working driver for your computer.''

== Configuring vArranger to play VST Instruments ==


In vArranger, go on OPTIONS / MIDI PORTS to select the audio outputs you want to use for playing VST instruments.


[[File:audio_configuration.png]]


As you can see in this example, the ASIO4ALL output has been selected.

Some sound cards have many audio outputs. You will see them all, displayed in this list.

In case of an ASIO sound card with multiples audio outputs, a second sub list will appear to select the desired stereo out.


As you can see in this example, I have selected '''VST''' as the 2nd MIDI OUT port, but you can select VST for the MIDI OUT 1, if the VST instruments will be your main sound source.

I have also selected the GM2 mode, who is working good for VST.


== The VST Rack ==


Selecting VST in the MIDI PORTS screen, will add a new button called VST in the vArranger main screen (top right).

Clicking on this button will show the VST rack with 16 slots to load up to 16 VST Instruments. Think this as if you have 16 hardware synthesizer in your room, close to you.

[[File:Vsti.png]]


- To load a VST Instrument, click on the central and empty zone (2).
This will allow you to locate the vst that you want to load.
VST plugin files have an extension .DLL
They are usually installed in a centralized VST folder, but when you install a VST plugin, you have the choice to define a different VST installation folder. So be attentive at this path, so you can find it easily in vArranger.

''If you don't have any VST instruments, you can start by searching on google for free VST instruments.
This website contains a nice compilation of free VST plugins to download'' [http://lesitedeburnie.free.fr/lalistedeburnie1-en.html]

Note that vArranger only loads '''32 Bit VST 2.4 plug ins.'''  ''If you really need to load a 64 Bit plug in, you need to install a software like jBridge'' [http://jstuff.wordpress.com/jbridge/] 

Once loaded, you will see the name of your VST in the VST Rack line.


Click on the same zone (2), on the VST name, and you will see the '''VST EDITOR'''. This is the graphical screen of the VST, where you can interact with it.

''Note : VST plugins does not always have an editor, but most have one.''

- To remove a VST from the rack, click on the [X] (4)

- Some plugins have PROGRAMS. They are predefined factory presets. If some are present, you will see the rack line number lightened (1). Clicking on it will allow you to see and select a program.


[[File:VstPrograms.png]]


- The [+] (3) will allow you to see more options for every VST

This page will be updated to explain this screen.
The most important in this screen is to select the "Send to channel 1", if the plugin is not multitimbral, and is receiving on midi channel 1. 


== Flexible Routing ==


Every track of vArranger can be routed to a different VST instrument.

RIGHT CLICKING on the track will allow you to select the desired MIDI OUT and/or the VST Instrument that will be used to play this track.


[[File:vstroute.png]]


This routing is saved with the Song (SAVE SONG) and with the Sound (SAVE RIGHT SOUND / SAVE LEFT SOUND)