An audio plug-in is 3rd party software program that can be added to a digital audio workstation (DAW) to extend its native library. These digital audio extensions are often used as effects, such as audio analyzers, reverb, delay, chorus, compression, and EQ, to correct or enhance sound recordings. They also come in the form of virtual instruments, such as drum machines, modular synthesizers, samplers, etc.
For example, emulating outboard gear such as noise gates, compressors, brickwall limiters, and parametric equalizers means an end-user has capable tools at reasonable costs to make their music sound better assuming they've got the know-how to do music things. However, it's not all about analog emulation. Modern tools provide musicians with numerous opportunities to achieve a professional sound as long as they have enough processing power. Some plugins are notoriously CPU-intensive though.
Furthermore, Avid Audio Extensions (AAX) can only be used in Pro Tools audio recording software. But with a VST (Virtual Studio Technology) plug-in there are no limitations. You can use them in whatever music production software (or VST host application) you want e.g., Ableton Live, PreSonus Studio One, Steinberg's Cubase, Apple Logic Pro, etc.
For example, emulating outboard gear such as noise gates, compressors, brickwall limiters, and parametric equalizers means an end-user has capable tools at reasonable costs to make their music sound better assuming they've got the know-how to do music things. However, it's not all about analog emulation. Modern tools provide musicians with numerous opportunities to achieve a professional sound as long as they have enough processing power. Some plugins are notoriously CPU-intensive though.
Plug-in formats
Popularly used plug-in formats include VST, VST3, AU, and AAX. All these formats except Audio Units (AU) can run on both Microsoft Windows and Apple macOS platforms. This is because, like most applications made by Apple, you have to stay in a safe walled garden (or Apple's ecosystem to utilize them).Furthermore, Avid Audio Extensions (AAX) can only be used in Pro Tools audio recording software. But with a VST (Virtual Studio Technology) plug-in there are no limitations. You can use them in whatever music production software (or VST host application) you want e.g., Ableton Live, PreSonus Studio One, Steinberg's Cubase, Apple Logic Pro, etc.
