Steinberg has announced the release of the newest software development kit (SDK) for the integrative standard of virtual instruments and effects, Virtual Studio Technology (VST), now available as version 3.5.
First launched by Steinberg in 1996, VST creates a professional studio environment on any PC and Mac computer, allowing seamless integration of virtual effect processors and instruments into the VST host application. VST is an open standard and the possibilities offered by this technology are steadily growing. In 2008, Steinberg released the VST 3 development kit with a deluge of enhancements and new functionality, such as 64-bit compatibility, sample-accurate parameter control and side-chain support.
This year ushered in the release of Cubase 6, Steinberg’s music production flagship. One of its highlights is Note Expression which relies thoroughly on VST 3.5. Note Expression enables individual notes in a polyphonic arrangement to include multiple controller information, providing the ultimate flexibility for note articulation. Moreover, VST 3.5 facilitates compatible instruments, such as the HALion Sonic SE included in Cubase, to automatically transfer the articulation setup of each individual instrument sound to a VST Expression Map, a feature exclusively employed by Steinberg products.
“With Note Expression we break through the limitations of MIDI. Articulation messages are no longer bound only to channels, but can now be used for every single event,” remarks Yvan Grabit, technical lead at Steinberg.
VST 3.5 also provides a new, XML-based controller interface for exporting and grouping plug-in parameters, while allowing VST modules to add individual context menu entries for customized configuration.
The latest SDK is accessible for download on the Steinberg website.
More information: Steinberg / VST 3.5 SDK
