- VST (Virtual Studio Technology) allows developers to create virtual instruments and effects that can be used within digital audio workstation (DAW) software, enabling a complete virtual music production studio.
- It was developed by Steinberg to allow third-party plugins that could be loaded and used within host DAW applications. Plugins can send and receive MIDI data.
- There are two main types of DAWs - computer-based which use a computer, soundcard, and software, and integrated which combine mixing console, audio converter, and storage in one device. VST expanded DAW capabilities by enabling virtual plugins.