Pro Tools doesn't support VST plugins, though there is a way to get it working. Pro Tools 8 LE uses RTAS plugins (though RTAS has officially been replaced with AAX for newer versions), but you can use you can use software like FXpansion's VST to RTAS adapter to host VST plugins in Pro Tools. To hide certain plug-ins from Pro Tools, simply move the plug-in to the 'Plug-Ins (Unused)' folder. The next time you open Pro Tools, only the plug-ins remaining in the “Plug-Ins” folder will show up in Pro Tools and any plug-ins moved to the “Plug-Ins (Unused)” folder will not be shown. Instructions Step 1 Download the VST to RTAS Adapter pack. Remember to match the adapter with your version of Pro Tools. Step 2 Click on the VST to RTAS. Move plugins that are causing problems to the Unused folder, or move them to the Unused folder if you don’t want them to load when you launch your program. All AAX plugins will install to this directory by default, don’t change it! This is the ONLY path that Pro Tools. Host VST and AU plug-ins within Pro Tools AAX plug-in format. An extra feature that will be very useful for cross DAW collaborators is the save/load plug-in preset feature. Mix with plug-in chains within Pro Tools using Patchwork and load those plug-in chain presets within a different DAW such as Logic Pro X. Brainworx BXCleansweep V2. The brainworx BX Cleanup V2 is a handy little tool, it is. Or invest in a pricey drum machine. Boom is an easy-to-use and effective virtual drum machine and sequencer that enables you to quickly add and customize beats for your music. And now this Pro Tools standard plugin is available to all Pro Tools First users at an incredible low price.

• Vst Plugins Pro Tools 12

Transcript from video:

Where are my plugins in Pro Tools First?

As you can see, I have a very limited amount of plugins available here.

But, if I open the full version of Pro Tools, you’ll see I have access to all of the plugins that I own.

So why can’t I use all of my plugins in Pro Tools First?

The reason is, Pro Tools First ONLY supports plugins that are included with it, or purchased from within the Avid Marketplace, or your Avid Account.

This means you CAN NOT buy plugins directly from Waves.com, AudioDeluxe, Sweetwater, etc… and use them in PT First. You could however use them in the full version of Pro Tools.

What about VSTs?

Free vst plugin that can play sylenth1. Well, no version of Pro Tools supports the VST format. ALL versions of Pro Tools only use the AAX format for plugins.

Interestingly, the location for all of your AAX plugins will be the same for all Avid Products.

Meaning, the full version or Pro Tools, Pro Tools First, and even Media Composer, all look for AAX plugins in the same location.

However, Pro Tools First CANNOT use these plugins unless they were purchased through the Avid Marketplace.

Pro Tools First is a feature reduced free version of Pro Tools, you can think of it like a ‘Feemium’ app.

You can use basic features for free, but if you want add-ons you have to buy those individually, directly from the app maker.

I couldn’t buy more features for InShot from Adobe for example, or vice versa.

The point of Pro Tools First is to let you use the basic features of Pro Tools and get use to the workflow without having to purchase a subscription or perpetual license.

If you like what you see and want more features, you would then purchase a license for the full version and unlock, currently, about 115 included plugins, hundreds of advanced features, and of course the ability to use any thrid-party AAX plugins, no matter where they are purchased from.

So, that’s why you cant find your plugins in Pro Tools First.

They must be included with the software, or purchased from the Avid Marketplace.

Even if you own a FULL, PAID version of Pro Tools, your plugins WILL NOT work in Pro Tools First if they were not purchased through the Avid Marketplace.

It’s a built-in limitation. If you want to use third-party plugins in Pro Tools First, you must buy them from the Avid Marketplace. Or, upgrade to the full version of Pro Tools and use any AAX plugins that you want, purchased from wherever you want.

NOTE: Pro Tools First does come with several plugins. Some of them need to be installed separately from the DAW. You can find your plugins in your MyAvid account and in Avid Link.

Vst Plugins Pro Tools 12

More info:
http://avid.force.com/pkb/articles/en_US/faq/Third-Party-Plugins-on-Pro-Tools-First