Install VST3 plugins in Audacity on Windows
- 1
Install the VST3 plugin
Run the plugin's installer. Most VST3 plugins install automatically to
C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3. If installing manually, place the.vst3file or folder there. - 2
Open Audacity and rescan
Effect → Add / Remove Plug-ins → click Rescan. Wait for the scan to complete.
- 3
Enable the plugin
Find your plugin in the list (it shows as "New"). Check the box and click Enable → OK.
- 4
Access in Effect menu
The plugin appears in the Effect menu under its name or category.
Where does Audacity look for VST3 plugins?
VST3 questions
Audacity VST3 not working — plugin not appearing
Check: (1) The .vst3 file is in C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3 or a subfolder. (2) You have run Effect → Add / Remove Plug-ins → Rescan. (3) The plugin is 64-bit — Audacity 3.x does not load 32-bit plugins. (4) The plugin is not on the blacklist — check the Add / Remove Plug-ins list for it.
Does Audacity support VST3 on Windows?
Yes. Audacity 3.2 and later supports VST3 plugins on Windows. Place .vst3 files in the standard VST3 folder and scan via Effect → Add / Remove Plug-ins. VST3 offers better performance and features than the older VST2 format.