How to Use VST3 or AU Plugins in Reaper (macOS & Windows)

Avec plaisir ! Voici un tutoriel clair et détaillé en anglais pour expliquer comment utiliser des plugins VST3 ou AU dans Reaper sur macOS ou Windows :

REAPER is a powerful DAW that supports a wide range of plugin formats, including VST2, VST3 (on both Windows and macOS), and AU (on macOS only).

✅ Step 1: Install the Plugin

1. Download the plugin installer for your operating system.

2. Run the installer and make sure to install the correct formats:

   • On Windows, choose VST3 

   • On macOS, choose VST3 and/or AU.

3. Default installation folders are usually:

   • Windows (VST3):
     C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3

   • macOS (VST3):
     /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST3

   • macOS (AU):
     /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/Components

✅ Step 2: Set Plugin Paths in Reaper (Windows only)

On macOS, Reaper scans standard plugin folders automatically.

1. Open Reaper.

2. Go to:
   Options > Preferences > Plug-ins > VST

3. In the "VST plug-in paths" field, make sure it includes your plugin folder(s).
   Example for Windows:

   C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3
   

4. Click “Re-scan” or “Clear cache / Re-scan” to detect new plugins.

✅ Step 3: Add the Plugin to a Track

1. Open or create a project in Reaper.

2. Create a new track:
   Track > Insert New Track

3. Click the “FX” button on the track.

4. In the FX browser:

   • Search for your plugin by name.

   • Or browse by category (e.g. VST3 > Manufacturer > Plugin Name).

5. Double-click the plugin to load it.

✅ Step 4: Authorize the Plugin (if needed)

• When opening the plugin for the first time, you may need to log in or enter your license info.

• This often links the license to your current machine.

? Notes

• AU plugins are available only on macOS and appear under the “AU” section in the FX browser.

• If the plugin does not appear, double-check that it's installed in the correct folder and that Reaper has scanned that location.