VST3 paths on Windows: the folder that matters
For a standard 64-bit Windows VST3 install, start with C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3.
Diagnosis
- Look for the vendor or plug-in .vst3 bundle there.
- Do not confuse VST2 .dll search paths with the VST3 system path.
- If an installer used a non-standard path, document it before changing the host.
Decision
- Prefer reinstalling to the standard location.
- Keep one clear VST3 source of truth.
- After correcting the path, run one deliberate rescan.
Measurement boundary
Path correctness is necessary but not sufficient: architecture, signing and the DAW blocklist can still matter.
Common failure: Moving installed plug-in bundles by hand can break supporting files or installer state.