DJ VST Software - Using VSTs for DJs

When it comes to making DJ mixes, DJs have recently started to turn their heads to an overlooked tool - VST plugins. While most music producers will be familiar with the use of VSTs for making music, these are rarely considered as part of the process to mix music for DJs.

But thanks to new software developments, DJs can now start using DJ plugins and VSTs to help maximize the quality of their mixes. This use of the best DJ plugins can make you sound like a more professional DJ, giving you a new level of polish, quality, and expression to your mixes. 

In this guide, I’m going to share my experience of how I’ve been integrating VSTs into my DJ mixing, and explain some of the attractive benefits that you should consider seeking out!

TL;DR - DJ Plugins and Software VSTs#

• VSTs are extra ‘plugin’ pieces of software, that enhance the basic features of DJ and music production software.

• Some DJ software supports VST plugins, although this is very rare, and not mainstream.

• VSTs can help DJs to maximize the quality and competitiveness of their mix, and speed up their workflow. Even the best free software plugins can make a large improvement. 

• DJ.Studio is a unique style of DJ software, that has recently added an incredibly powerful set of VST integrations to the platform.

What are VSTs?#

VSTs, or Virtual Studio Technology plugins, are software tools that add additional functionality to audio and music production software, although they have recently become an attractive tool for DJs too.

They can range from effects processors like reverbs, delays, modulation, distortion, and other creative effects, to more technical tools like equalizers, compressors, and limiters.

You can also find VSTs that are used for the creation of sound, acting as virtual synthesizers and drum While music producers typically use them, they also allow DJs to expand their sonic palette and create more intricate mixes.

These plugins can be integrated seamlessly with DJ software, providing more creative options and enhancing the overall DJing experience. 

It's not common to see VST support in DJ software, for example, some of the only platforms to include it are the open-source DJ software Mixxx, and DJ.Studio. Mainstream platforms like rekordbox and Serato DJ Lite do not support VSTs. 

Why are VSTs Useful for DJs?#

Because of the perceived difficulties in using VST plugins in a DJing workflow, the benefits are often overlooked. Now, thanks to tools like DJ.Studio, DJs can easily integrate VSTs into the DJ setup, and access a range of benefits. 

1. Enhanced Sound Quality - VST plugins can dramatically improve the sound quality of your mixes. Whether you’re looking to add reverb, delay, or other effects, or even correctly master your mix using EQs and compressors, VSTs provide high-quality options that make your DJ mixes stand out.

2. Improved Workflow - With VSTs, you can streamline your DJ mixing process. These plugins can automate certain tasks, making it easier to create seamless mixes. This enhancement in workflow significantly contributes to the creative process, allowing DJs to focus more on creativity and achieve better results.

3. Expanded Creative Options -  VSTs offer a wide range of sounds and effects that can inspire new creative directions. From unique filters to innovative synth sounds, these plugins can help you push the boundaries of your music library. Additionally, VSTs enable seamless mixing by matching tempo and beats, integrating with other software, and ensuring smooth transitions in your favorite music.

4. Create a More Personalized Sound - Plugins can help DJs create a more unique, personal, and memorable sound to their mixes. Rather than sounding like everybody else, you can use plugins to imprint your sonic signature onto your mixes, adding a deeper sense of personality and character. 

How to Use VSTs for DJing#

If you want to start using VSTs in your DJing setup, these are the steps!

1. Choose Compatible DJ Software: Not all DJ software supports VST plugins. Look for DJ software like DJ.Studio, which offers VST support and integrates well with these plugins.

2. Install Your VST Plugins: Once you have compatible DJ software, install your VST plugins. This process usually involves downloading the plugin and following the installation instructions.

3. Integrate VSTs into Your Workflow: After installation, you can start using VSTs in your DJ mixes. Experiment with different plugins to find out which ones enhance your sound and improve your workflow.

4. Try Different Techniques: VST plugins can be applied in a wide range of methods for DJing. From getting creative with the transitions and production of your mix to maximizing the quality and sound with mastering tools. At this stage, you should experiment with your workflow and figure out how you can get the most out of this combination.

This outlines the basic process of using VSTs in your DJ mixing setup - although it will vary from platform to platform. In the next section, I'll share how I use DJ.Studio with VSTs to maximize my creativity. 

DJ.Studio's VST Functionality#

DJ.Studio stands out as a DJ mixing software that supports VST plugins. 

This powerful mix creation engine allows for seamless integration of VSTs, making it a great tool for professional DJs. With DJ.Studio, you can leverage the full potential of VSTs to enhance your mixes, improve your workflow, and deliver top-notch performances. 

This software is unique in many ways. For one, it has tight VST integration which is basically unseen in DJ software. But the main unique feature is the remarkably different workflow for creating mixes, which revolves around using the keyboard and mouse with a timeline editor, rather than using a mixer and decks.

By pairing DJ.Studio’s unique workflow with some powerful VSTs, you can quickly make more creative, and higher quality DJ mixes.

I’ll now explain my process for using DJ.Studio with VSTs, helping you to get the most out of this powerful software.

DJ.Studio's VST Workflow#

1. Download and open the DJ.Studio app.

2. Create a new project, using the Local File mode.

3. Connect to your library.  Connect DJ.Studio to your music library for direct integration, like rekordbox, Traktor, Virtual DJ, iTunes, and more. This makes it easy to manage and organize your entire music collection for seamless DJ mixes and performances. You can also songs directly from your hardd 

4. Add tracks to your project that you want to use in a mix. You can manually arrange an order, or…

5. Use the AUTOMIX. DJ.Studio features a powerful automix algorithm. This analyzes your project’s playlist and works out the optimal order based on harmonic mixing and beatmatching techniques, automatically arranging the basic structure of your mix. You can use this to make smart playlists. 

6. Edit and Arrange - Now you can use the editing timeline to further customize your mix. You can change the placement of songs, as well as craft transitions in detail using EQs and effects.

7. Use VSTs - At this stage, you can start to add VSTs to your project. There are two places:

   1. The Effects Tab - Here you can add VST plugins to individual tracks. This lets you color and process songs independently of each other, helping you to make creative transitions and arrangements.

   2. The Mastering Tab - This lets you pick plugins to be applied to DJ.Studio’s master output. This means that all your tracks will be processed with the same bank of effects, helping you to get a cohesive and balanced sound. Typically the mastering section is loaded with EQs, compressors, saturators, and limiters, to shape the overall tone, sound and dynamic range of the mix.

8. You can add additional automation to your track lanes, manually setting the movement of parameters for both stock effects and VST plugins. The X/Y pads add a nice way to bring in some more human gestural expression, so you can add more of a human touch to your mix and transitions.

9. Export and Share - When you are happy with the final quality of your mix, you can export it to a range of formats and share it with your audience. The exporting process is lightning-fast, and takes a fraction of the time that it would cost to record it manually. You also don’t need to worry about rehearsing and making any mistakes! You can create a finalized MP3/WAV, or send your project to Ableton Live for further editing, or even convert it into a DJ set file to share as a prepared playlist to play live with your live DJing software like rekordbox.

As you can see, the VST workflow offered by DJ.Studio is extremely efficient. It allows you to experiment with your mix, quickly determine the most flowing order, and then sculpt the mix and transitions in detail.

This tool is useful for both amateur and professional DJs alike.

DJ.Studio's Other Unique Features#

DJ.Studio is a revolutionary piece of software designed to transform the DJing experience by offering unique features that set it apart from traditional DJ software. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes DJ.Studio stand out:

Powerful Mix Creation Engine#

DJ.Studio features a powerful mix creation engine that uses a timeline-based workflow. This DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) style interface allows DJs to craft their mixes with precision on your desktop instead of on live controllers, offering detailed editing and arrangement tools that are more advanced than traditional live mixing interfaces.

Automix Assistant#

One of the standout features of DJ.Studio is its Automix Assistant. The algorithm analyzes tracks for key and BPM, then suggests the optimal order for your playlist. It ensures harmonic mixing and beatmatching, making the process of creating seamless transitions much easier.

Integration with Streaming Services#

DJ.Studio integrates with several streaming services, including YouTube, Spotify, and Beatport and Beatsource Streaming. This integration allows DJs to mix tracks from a vast library of music directly within the software, facilitating easy experimentation and discovery of new music.

Music Library and Collection Management#

The software boasts one of the most powerful music library management systems on the market. It automatically scans and analyzes every imported track, indicating the key and BPM. This feature simplifies the process of organizing and selecting tracks for your mixes, saving time and ensuring compatibility.

Effective music library management is crucial for maintaining an energetic dance floor, ensuring the energy keeps flowing and creating a continuous, harmonious flow for the audience.

Stem Separation#

DJ.Studio includes AI-powered stem separation tools. This feature allows DJs to isolate different elements of a track, such as vocals, drums, and bass. It provides greater creative control, enabling the creation of mashups and remixes by manipulating individual track components. 

Video Creator and Music Visualizer#

DJ.Studio isn't just for audio; it also includes a built-in video engine that can create audio-reactive, 3D animations. With access to over 30,000 Shadertoy visualizers, DJs can add visual components to your mixes to be uploaded to YouTube.

Sample Lanes#

The software offers additional sample lanes for layering in sounds, loops, and DJ tags. These lanes come with independent FX processing and beatmatching capabilities, providing more depth and customization options for your mixes.

Multiple Export Options#

DJ.Studio provides versatile export options, allowing finished mixes to be exported in various formats, including WAV, MP3, and even video formats for platforms like YouTube and Mixcloud. It also supports exporting mixes as DJ set files to live DJ software like rekordbox complete with smart hot-cues. 

Unique Workflow#

The unique timeline-based workflow of DJ.Studio makes it faster and cleaner for creating DJ mixes. Unlike traditional DJ software that requires live mixing, DJ.Studio allows DJs to meticulously craft and perfect their mixes over time, making it a powerful tool for both beginners and professionals.

These features collectively make DJ.Studio a highly innovative and versatile tool for DJs looking to enhance their creativity, improve their workflow, and deliver exceptional performances. For more detailed information, you can visit the DJ.Studio website.

Finally...#

Incorporating VSTs into your DJ setup can open up a world of possibilities. From enhancing sound quality to expanding your creative options, VSTs are a valuable addition to any DJ's toolkit. Whether you're a seasoned professional or are an intermediate DJ looking to expand your skills, experimenting with VSTs can help you create more dynamic and engaging DJ mixes. 

DJ.Studio offers the best-in-class DJ VST integration, so try it yourself with the free trial!

(VST support is currently in closed beta, so drop us an email to get plugged in!)