Can't install plug-ins

[T Matt Hughes]

Hey, i recently installed Protools LE. I've been using Adobe Audition up until now. Now when i try to install plug-ins it defaults to the Audition directory structure. Where do i now instruct them to go for Protools? There doesn't seem to be a 'plug-ins' directory. I'm on a PC.

Thanks!

[spkguitar]

Pro Tools LE uses a proprietary plugin format (RTAS: Real Time Audio Suite). All native Pro Tools RTAS plugins will install to the proper directory for Pro Tools.

If you are trying to use another plugin format, such as VST or DX, you will need to purchase a converter to make them work with Pro Tools, and then follow the instructions for that converter.

The adapter for VST plugins is the VST to RTAS adapter made by FXPansion and is available for purchase/download from their website. You can get it a little cheaper if you buy the boxed version from one of the online stores, but you have to wait for it to be shipped. Instructions for how to use it are included with the product.

To use DX plugins with Pro Tools, you need the FFX4 DX to VST converter, and then you need to convert that from VST to RTAS with the FXPansion wrapper from above. This method has always proved very unstable for me and I abandoned it long ago.

Most commercial plugins that have DX and VST versions also have RTAS versions, so many times none of this is necessary and updating and/or re-installing the plugin in question will install the RTAS version in the proper location.

Which plugins specifically are you trying to install/use?

[T Matt Hughes]

Well that sucks. I'm trying to use VST plug-ins...

[spkguitar]

VST plugins work really well with the wrapper, and the wrapper is really worth the money you will spend on it.

As I said, though, most commercial VST plugins also have RTAS versions, and will install the RTAS version in the proper location if Pro Tools is installed. Depending on which VST you are trying to use, it might be as easy as re-installing the plugin.

The free VSTs don't have RTAS versions of course, which is why the adapter is worth every penny.