VST

Term from Sound Engineering industry explained for recruiters

VST (Virtual Studio Technology) is a standard format for music and audio production software that adds new sounds and effects to recording programs. Think of it like apps that you can add to your smartphone - VSTs are add-ons that sound engineers and music producers use to create, edit, and enhance sounds in their recording software. These can be virtual instruments (like digital pianos or synthesizers) or audio effects (like reverb or echo). When you see VST mentioned in a resume, it usually means the person knows how to work with these digital audio tools.

Examples in Resumes

Created complex sound arrangements using VST plugins for commercial jingles

Managed a library of over 200 VST instruments for studio production work

Produced radio advertisements utilizing professional VST and VST3 effects

Typical job title: "Audio Engineers"

Also try searching for:

Sound Engineer Audio Producer Music Producer Recording Engineer Mix Engineer Studio Engineer Audio Software Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you manage CPU resources when working with multiple VST plugins?

Expected Answer: A senior engineer should discuss techniques for efficient plugin usage, like freezing tracks, using send effects, and proper routing to maximize computer performance while maintaining sound quality.

Q: What's your approach to organizing a large VST plugin library for a professional studio?

Expected Answer: Should explain systems for categorizing plugins, backup strategies, and methods for maintaining consistency across multiple workstations in a professional environment.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors do you consider when choosing between different VST plugins for a project?

Expected Answer: Should discuss how they match plugins to project needs, considering factors like sound quality, CPU usage, and client requirements.

Q: How do you troubleshoot common VST plugin issues?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic troubleshooting steps for plugin crashes, compatibility issues, and audio problems.

Junior Level Questions

Q: Can you explain the difference between a VST instrument and a VST effect?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that VST instruments create sounds (like virtual pianos or drums) while VST effects modify existing sounds (like adding echo or distortion).

Q: What are the basic steps to install and set up a VST plugin?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of proper installation procedures, including placing files in correct folders and scanning/validating plugins in audio software.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic VST plugin installation and usage
  • Understanding different types of audio effects
  • Basic virtual instrument handling
  • Simple plugin chains and routing

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced effect chains and processing
  • Multiple DAW software experience
  • Efficient CPU resource management
  • Complex sound design using VSTs

Senior (5+ years)

  • Professional studio workflow optimization
  • Large plugin library management
  • Advanced troubleshooting capabilities
  • Integration with hardware systems

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of major audio recording software (DAWs)
  • Unfamiliarity with basic audio terms and concepts
  • No practical experience with plugin management
  • Lack of understanding about audio signal flow