EVOLVER PlugSE™ VST Setup on Windows PC:

The PlugSE VST dll file should be placed in the VST plugins folder. Depending on the VST host that folder could be located in various places on you hard drive. In case of Steinberg’s Cubase this folder is located in the Cubase directory and it is called “Vstplugins”. In Ableton Live the VST folder can be defined in Preferences.

The PlugSE is designed to serve as a bridge between the host and the Evolver and in principle the Evolver should be connected directly to the PlugSE via MIDI. By default, most of the VST hosts are set to grab all MIDI ports on startup and this may create a connection problem for PlugSE users.

Many MIDI interfaces are not multi-client - this means that ports can be opened and used only by one application at a time. It also means that in practice, after you start the host application the host may first access and open MIDI ports that your Evolver is connected to and prevent the PlugSE from accessing the same ports later on.  

Even if your MIDI interface is multi-client and it is connected to the Evolver it is still advisable to deactivate MIDI ports the Evolver is using in the host MIDI setup in order to avoid double MIDI messages being send or received. The PlugSE will handle all MIDI messaging and the connection between the Evolver MIDI and the host is not needed.

EVOLVER PlugSE™ VST Setup in Ableton Live:

1a) From “Options” menu select “Preferences” and click on the MIDI tab.

1b) In the example below, we have our Evolver connected to MIDISPORT 2x2 Ports B. We want to make sure that Live does not access those ports so we need to deactivate them in Ableton Live.

2) Run the PlugSE and click on the MIDI button to open PlugSE MIDI setup. Select MIDI In and MIDI Out ports to which the Evolver is connected.

The caption should now display DSI: EVOLVER DSK ON-LINE. If not, please check the cables and Evolver`s MASTER settings if SYSEX is enabled.

3) Another important setting is the Evolver MIDI channel. It should be set to match the PlugSE’ MIDI channel.

4) Now, you should be able to play Evolver’s keys, pitch or modulation wheel and the PlugSE piano should respond showing keys and wheels movement.  Playng PlugSE piano keys should also result in notes playing on the Evolver.

5) You can test VST automation by manually turning Evolver knobs or adjusting PlugSE controls. All movements will be drawn on the automation track.

Let’s configure Evolver PlugSE parameters for playing. Click on Configure button:

Move any control on the PlugSE screen and it will be added to Live’s list.

You are ready now to play, record, make custom envelopes etc.