An audio plug-in is a program that can add extended capabilities and features to your existing "host" program. Most Audio Editing & Mastering programs along with Multi-Track Recording programs support some form of plug-ins. These added features can include advanced pitch and time stretching, EQ, reverb, pitch correction or other effects and are usually of higher quality than the effects that are included with your host program. Most plug-ins require a "host" program as they won't run "stand alone". A "host" program is an Audio Editing & Mastering or Multi-Track recording program that supports plug-ins.

What To Look For When Buying Audio Plug-ins

First, find the plug-in that offers the feature set you are looking for. Some plug-ins are designed for one specific task, usually giving you an incredible amount of control over specific parameters to get the exact effect you desire. Other plug-ins are designed as bundles to give you a wide range of features, or emulate vintage gear. Secondly, make sure that the plug-in will work with a format supported by your host application. An explanation of different plug-in formats is given below.

There are a variety of plug-in formats, each developed by different companies for different platforms. AU and DirectX are two formats that are integrated directly into the Mac and Windows operating system respectively. However, not all host programs running on those platforms support those formats. Be sure to check your host program to ensure that it supports the plug-in format you want to use. AU, DirectX and VST are the most widely used formats