The VST format is used by many audio processing applications. The most common are DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) programs. The VST file itself contains a plug-in for creating or editing the timbre of a sound by modulating it. This allows you to extend the capabilities of the software and enrich its sound capabilities.

VST (Virtual Studio Technology) plug-ins with sound effects were developed by Steinberg Media Technologies (creator of Cubase). Currently, it is a common plug-in standard due to the granting of a free license to other companies to use this technology.