VST1 is the original version of Virtual Studio Technology (VST), an audio plug-in software interface that simulates traditional recording studio hardware in software.
What it is
VST is a software interface that allows users to integrate virtual instruments and effects into a digital audio workstation (DAW). VSTs use digital signal processing (DSP) to receive audio signals, process them, and output the result as a digital audio signal.
How it works
VSTs are useful add-ons that offer extra functionality, such as beat-making or sound design. Common VST plugins include synthesisers, samplers, and audio effects like reverb and compression.
History
VST was developed by Steinberg Media Technologies in 1996.
VSTs revolutionised music production by making it easier to get the desired sound. Before VSTs, building a music studio was expensive and required a lot of space. With VSTs, users could get the same sounds by dragging and dropping a file inside their DAW.