vst-guide

Automate VST3 and VSTGUI UI pattern guidance for plugin development.

8|1|Updated Dec 22, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/rolandzwaga/krate-audio --skill vst-guide
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: vst-guide
Source: https://github.com/rolandzwaga/krate-audio/tree/main/.claude/skills/vst-guide
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/rolandzwaga/krate-audio --skill vst-guide

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Guides developers in applying proven VST3 and VSTGUI patterns to build robust, cross-platform plugin UIs and parameter handling, reducing debugging time and integration headaches.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Parameter binding guidance with appropriate types (StringListParameter, RangeParameter) and automatic UI bindings.
  • Thread-safety patterns using IDependent and deferred UI updates to avoid crashes.
  • Reusable view templates, sub-controllers, and template instantiation for scalable editors across multiple bands or modules.

Quick Start

Open the vst-guide skill and review the core UI patterns to start implementing a cross-platform VST3 UI.

Frequently Asked Questions about vst-guide

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I handle thread safety when updating VSTGUI parameters from the audio thread?

Thread safety in VSTGUI parameters requires using IDependent and deferred UI updates to avoid crashes. This approach separates audio processing from visual rendering, ensuring robust cross-platform plugin performance.

What is the best way to bind VST3 parameters to UI elements using UIDescription?

The best way to bind VST3 parameters involves using appropriate types like StringListParameter or RangeParameter for automatic UI bindings. This ensures correct parameter handling and seamless integration with UIDescription templates.

Can I use VSTGUI templates for scalable editor layouts across multiple modules?

Yes, VSTGUI supports reusable view templates and sub-controllers for scalable editors. Template instantiation allows building consistent UIs across multiple bands or modules while maintaining cross-platform compatibility.

How does tag remapping work in VST3 plugin development?

Tag remapping in VST3 plugin development involves redirecting UI control identifiers to manage visibility controllers and template instantiation. This prevents common pitfalls and ensures accurate parameter mapping across different editor views.

Why does my VST3 editor crash during the lifecycle management phase?

VST3 editor crashes during lifecycle management often stem from improper IDependent usage or missing deferred UI updates. Applying correct thread-safety patterns and visibility controllers prevents these integration failures.

Do I need specific VST3 parameter types for string list controls?

Yes, you need StringListParameter for string list controls in VST3 development. This parameter type provides automatic UI bindings and ensures proper data handling within VSTGUI templates and sub-controllers.