#MAINSTAGE FOR MAC BEGINNERS MAC OS#
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Topten Cantabile is a high performance VST host that’s tailor-made for live playing. But if you’re a Mac user looking to play VSTs live, Mainstage is probably your first option to try.

#MAINSTAGE FOR MAC BEGINNERS MAC OS#

Unfortunately, like all Apple software, Mainstage is only available on Mac OS X. Guitarists will love the virtual pedalboards and amp rigs that come complete with tuner, tap tempo and spillover features.Īnd keyboardists can take advantage of the excellent built-in emulations of classics the Hammond B3, Fender Rhodes, Hohner Pianet and more. It includes many of the respected plugins, presets and effects from Apple’s flagship DAW app Logic Pro X.īuilt specifically with live shows in mind, Mainstage has many impressive features for performers. Apple MainstageĪpple's Mainstage is one of the most well-known VST hosts for live performance.

With the basics out of the way, here are the 10 best VST hosts available today.

That makes them simpler and more efficient for your computer to run.Įven if you’re just playing through a handful of instruments or effects, a VST host can help when a standalone version of the plugin doesn’t exist.

#MAINSTAGE FOR MAC BEGINNERS FULL#

These purpose-built software programs don’t need the extra features and functionality of full recording apps. While a traditional DAW can be used for live performance, many musicians prefer the stability and ease of use that comes with dedicated VST hosts. A VST host can be a DAW or a dedicated software program just for running VSTs. What is a VST host?Ī VST host is a software program that can load VST instruments or effects plugins. In this article I’ll go through the 8 best VST host apps available today. To run VSTs without the extra functionality of a DAW you’ll need a VST host. Maybe you just want your jam with your virtual synths, or play live with a VST rig on stage.

If you produce music in a DAW, VSTs are probably a key part of your workflow.īut sometimes you want to use your plugins without launching a full fledged DAW. Instruments and effects that used to cost thousands became accessible to every musician with a computer.

Mainstage for mac beginners