If you’re just getting started with music production on LMMS (Linux MultiMedia Studio), one of the first questions you’ll probably ask is,
“How do I install VST plugins in LMMS?”. Don’t worry you’re not alone. This is one of the most common things new producers want to learn, and luckily, it’s not as complicated as it might seem.
In this guide, I’ll walk you step by step through installing VST instruments and VST effects in LMMS. We’ll also cover how to get them running smoothly on Windows and Linux, plus a few pro tips to avoid the common problems beginners run into.
By the end, you’ll have a working setup and be ready to expand your sound library with synths, effects, and more.
What Are VST Plugins?
Before jumping into the steps, let’s quickly understand what VST plugins actually are.
VST Instruments (VSTi): These are virtual instruments like synths, pianos, guitars, or drum machines. You load them inside LMMS to play and create melodies.
VST Effects: These are processors like EQs, compressors, reverbs, delays, and saturators. Instead of generating sound, they modify audio that’s already in your project.
Most plugins come as “.dll” files on Windows or packaged installers. You’ll be using LMMS’ built-in VeSTige plugin to load and run these VSTs.
Installing VST Instrument Plugins in LMMS
There are two main ways to install and use VST instruments plugins in LMMS.
1. Drag and Drop
Locate the .dll file of your VST plugin.
Drag it directly from the LMMS sidebar into the Song Editor.
LMMS will automatically create a new track with the instrument loaded in VeSTige.
2. Load Through VeSTige
Add a new VeSTige instrument to your Song Editor.
Inside the VeSTige window, click the folder icon.
Navigate to the location of your VST plugin (.dll file) and select it.
Both methods work the same the difference is just how you load the file. Below is a quick YouTube tutorial on how to install VST plugins in LMMS.
Saving and Using Presets
LMMS also allows you to save and load presets for VST instruments. Think of presets as your favorite settings that you can return to anytime.
To save a preset: open the VeSTige window, set your parameters, then click the preset icon and give it a name.
To load a saved preset: either right-click the preset in the sidebar and choose “Send to New/Active Instrument Track” or drag it into the Song Editor.
This is a great way to speed up your workflow, especially if you use the same sound in multiple projects.
Installing VST Effect Plugins in LMMS
Unlike VST instruments, VST effects don’t load through VeSTige. Instead, you need to tell LMMS where to find them.
Here’s how:
Place all your VST effect .dll files in a folder (e.g., C:\VSTPlugins).
Open LMMS and go to Edit > Settings > Paths.
Point the VST Plugin Directory to the folder where your effects are stored.
Tip: If your plugins are spread across multiple folders, you can use symlinking to connect them all to one location.
Once you restart LMMS, your effects will appear inside the “Add Effect” dialog box. From there, you can load them onto any track and start shaping your sound.
How to Install VST Plugins on Linux with LMMS
Running VST plugins on Linux takes a couple of extra steps, but it’s still possible.
Install Wine – this lets you run Windows applications (including VSTs) on Linux.
Download LMMS AppImage for Linux from the official site (lmms.io).
Open LMMS for the first time, and Wine may ask you to install additional components. Always click Yes to these.
Inside LMMS, go to Edit > Settings > Misc and disable “Sync VST plugins to host playback”. This improves stability for Linux users.
From here, you can use VeSTige and the same steps as Windows to load your VST instruments and effects.
Common Issues & Fixes
Even if you follow the steps correctly, you might run into some hiccups. Here are a few common problems and quick fixes:
Plugin won’t load or crashes: Check if it’s 32-bit or 64-bit. LMMS works best with 32-bit VSTs.
Missing .dll file after installing: Some plugins install with a setup (.exe). Make sure you complete the installation so the .dll file is generated.
Effects not showing up in Add Effect: Double-check that the correct plugin directory is set in LMMS settings.
Final Thoughts
Installing VST plugins in LMMS might seem tricky at first, but once you do it a couple of times, it becomes second nature.
For instruments, use VeSTige (drag-and-drop or manual load).
For effects, set the correct plugin directory and restart LMMS.
On Linux, use Wine and adjust LMMS settings for stability.
LMMS is free and open-source, so you can build a powerful production setup without spending a dime. And with thousands of free and paid VST plugins available online, your creative possibilities are endless.
👉 If you haven’t already, grab the latest version of LMMS from the official website
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