Dplug VST3 Guide

How to build VST3 plug-ins with Dplug?

This write-up describes the steps required to build a VST3 plug-in using Dplug.

Step 1. Modifying dub.json

Add a dplug:formats dependency in your plugin's dub.json

eg:

    "dependencies":
    {
        "dplug:formats": "~>16.0"
    }

Step 2. VST3 Configuration

Add a configuration with a name starting with VST3 in your plugin project

"configurations": [
    {
        "name": "VST3-GOLD-EDITION",
        "versions": ["VST3"],
        "targetType": "dynamicLibrary",
        "lflags-osx-ldc": [ "-exported_symbols_list", "module-vst3.lst", "-dead_strip" ]
    }
]

You can find module-vst3.lst in the given example in the distort or clipit examples.

Step 3. VST3 Entry points

If you use mixin(pluginEntryPoints!MyPluginClient); you don't have anything to do.

Else, add the VST3 entry points in your main source file:

    version(VST3)
    {
        import dplug.vst3;
        mixin(VST3EntryPoint!MyClient);
    }

Step 4. Building with dplug-build

Build with the right configuration:

$ dplug-build -c VST3-GOLD-EDITION

Such a VST3 cannot be distributed before you get an agreement and accept the dplug:vst3 licence.

How to distribute VST3 plug-ins with Dplug?

This write-up describes the steps required to release a commercial VST3 plug-in using Dplug.

Step 1. Read and accept the dplug:vst3 licence

dplug:vst3 has a dual-licence that mirrors the one in the VST3 SDK.

Step 2. VST3 Distribution Agreement

Get a signed agreement for VST3 distribution with Steinberg. You can't ever release VST3 plug-ins without Steinberg's approval.

Step 3. Distribute

Use the VST3-compatible image in your documentation, binary distributions, and any material accompanying the VST3 plug-in.

FAQ

Should I sign a VST3 distribution agreement with Steinberg?

Yes, if you want to distribute VST3 plug-ins. Do it.