Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

VSTHost VS Gig Performer

Compare VSTHost VS Gig Performer and see what are their differences

VSTHost logo VSTHost

Hostprogram for VST-Plugins with ASIO-Support

Gig Performer logo Gig Performer

Gig Performer is a cross-platform audio plugin host for live music performances
  • VSTHost Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-04-10
  • Gig Performer Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-09-14

VSTHost features and specs

  • Lightweight
    VSTHost is designed to be lightweight and efficient, allowing it to run smoothly on most systems without consuming significant resources.
  • Flexibility
    The software supports a wide range of VST plugins, giving users the ability to customize their audio setup extensively.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    VSTHost features a straightforward and intuitive interface, making it accessible even for users who are not highly technical.
  • Real-time Processing
    Offers real-time audio processing capabilities, which is beneficial for live performances or instantaneous feedback.
  • Freeware
    VSTHost is available as freeware, making it accessible to users who may be looking for a cost-effective solution.

Possible disadvantages of VSTHost

  • Limited Features Compared to DAWs
    While useful for hosting plugins, VSTHost does not offer the full suite of production features found in Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs).
  • Windows Only
    The software is only available for Windows, limiting its use for those on MacOS or Linux operating systems.
  • Potential Stability Issues
    As with many plugin hosts, VSTHost can experience stability issues depending on the plugins used and system configuration.
  • Minimal Support and Documentation
    Users may find the available support and documentation lacking, which could make troubleshooting more difficult.
  • Outdated User Interface
    The graphical interface might appear outdated compared to more modern software, which could deter some users.

Gig Performer features and specs

  • Versatility
    Gig Performer supports various plugins and virtual instruments, allowing musicians and performers to integrate their preferred digital tools seamlessly into live performances.
  • Stability
    The platform is designed for live performances, with a strong focus on stability and minimal latency, ensuring reliable behavior during shows.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    Gig Performer features an intuitive user interface that makes it easy for users to set up and control their live setups without needing extensive technical knowledge.
  • Customization
    It offers extensive customization options for creating and mapping virtual rackspaces, allowing performers to tailor their setups to specific needs or preferences.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility
    Gig Performer is available for both Windows and macOS, making it accessible to a wide range of users regardless of their operating system preference.

Possible disadvantages of Gig Performer

  • Learning Curve
    While the interface is user-friendly, getting the most out of its comprehensive features might require some time and effort to learn effectively.
  • Price
    As a professional-level software, Gig Performer comes at a relatively high price point, which might be a barrier for some hobbyist musicians or performers on a tight budget.
  • Limited Built-in Effects
    The software relies heavily on third-party plugins, and although this offers flexibility, it means users might need to invest in additional plugins to enhance their setups fully.
  • Resource Intensive
    Running multiple, complex setups with numerous plugins can be resource-intensive, potentially requiring a powerful computer to prevent performance issues.
  • No Mobile Version
    Gig Performer does not currently offer a mobile version, which limits its use to laptops or desktop systems during live performances.

VSTHost videos

How to Setup VSTHost - Basic Tutorial for Live Audio Processing via Software

More videos:

Gig Performer videos

Plugin Alliance GIG PERFORMER 3 - USE YOUR PLUGINS LIVE w/o A DAW! (near ZERO latency)

More videos:

  • Review - 5 Reasons for using Gig Performer rather than a DAW
  • Review - Gig Performer: Live Effects, No Daw!

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to VSTHost and Gig Performer)
Audio & Music
46 46%
54% 54
Email Marketing
46 46%
54% 54
Tool
56 56%
44% 44
Audio
38 38%
62% 62

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare VSTHost and Gig Performer

VSTHost Reviews

We have no reviews of VSTHost yet.
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Gig Performer Reviews

  1. Greg Connors
    · Keyboardist at Freelance musician ·
    Best tool for live performers

    Gig Performer 4 reinvented my experience on stage. Widgets, setlists, remote control via OSC, ChordPro, custom scripts help me to perform with confidence!

    🏁 Competitors: Cantabile, Mainstage 2
    👍 Pros:    Glitch free|Cpu friendly|Chordpro support|Osc support|Widgets|Easy to use
    👎 Cons:    No smartphone versions|Needs optimization for windows 10 tablet mode

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Gig Performer seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 2 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

VSTHost mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of VSTHost yet. Tracking of VSTHost recommendations started around Mar 2021.

Gig Performer mentions (2)

  • Sticky: RESOURCES & INFO
    Read the sidebar just to make sure you're in the right place. As of right now, I am the first and only member/mod of the subreddit. I created the sub because I love this DAW and noticed it didn't have much of an active following outside of the community forums on gigperformer.com itself. If you use Gig Performer and have a reddit account, feel free to join and share! Source: almost 3 years ago
  • Is there a PC program where I just load plugins themselves and interface with that plugin's control panel? Instead of having to load through MPC Beats or another DAW/production type of program.
    Gig Performer does this easily (https://gigperformer.com) but disclaimer: I'm one of its developers. Source: over 3 years ago

What are some alternatives?

When comparing VSTHost and Gig Performer, you can also consider the following products

Cantabile - Plugin host for live performance.

SAVIHost - Make VST instrument plugins into standalone apps.

Blue Cat's PatchWork - Blue Cat's PatchWork is a universal plug-ins patchbay and multi FX that can host up to 64 VST, VST3, Audio Unit or built-in plug-ins into any Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) in a single instance, with both serial and parallel routing options.

DDMF Metaplugin - Metaplugin is a plugin that loads other plugins. As simple as that. Build your own effect networks with this plugin wrapper using any VST/VST3 (and AU, if you’re on Mac) effect you already have on your harddisk.

Blue Cat MB-7 Mixer - Blue Cat's MB-7 Mixer is a unique plug-in that splits the signal into several frequency bands and lets you re-mix and process them as if they were separate tracks: change levels, apply panning, add built-in effects, or even third party plug-ins.

audioström LiveProfessor - LiveProfessor is a live oriented plugin host for Windows and OSX. LiveProfessor makes it easy to create a powerful, portable and flexible effect rack using VST or AU plugins.