FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions, Will solve all your problems)

Scroll until you find the issue you are having:

Click here to download this as a pdf guide

1. New Computer and Need Your Downloads?

Redownload the Plugin:
- Visit Ottoaudio.net, re-download the trial demo for any plugin, not full paid version.
- The license activated in iLok Manager on your new machine is what makes it a full version. Do this before opening your DAW. (see how to below)
- During installation, grant access to the Documents folder for presets. Without this, presets won’t load.
Activating in iLok Manager:
1. Go to ilok.com, click "Download" to get the iLok License Manager installer.
2. Install it, then open iLok License Manager.
3. Sign in with your iLok account credentials.
4. Find your plugin license in the list, right-click it, and select "Activate."
5. Choose your activation location: Cloud Session, your machine, or a USB dongle.
6. Follow prompts to complete activation.
Get your licenses back with Machine Activation Reset (If Computer Was Damaged, Lost, Stolen, or Sold):
- If your old computer is inaccessible and licenses weren’t deactivated:
  1. Launch iLok License Manager and sign in.
  2. On the left, select the grayed-out host computer that’s inaccessible.
  3. Click “Show Details” to view its info.
  4. Click “Report as Unusable.”
  5. In the “Report Computer as Unusable” dialog, enter a reason for the reset (e.g., “Computer stolen” or “Hard drive failed”) under “Information for software publisher(s).”
  6. Check “I understand…” and click “Submit Request.”
  7. After submission, a “Report Complete” dialog appears—click “Close.”
  8. Verify the reset request: In the computer’s details, “Activation Location” should show “Reset Requested.”
  9. Wait for publisher approval (PACE doesn’t approve/deny). If approved, licenses return to your iLok account for reactivation. If denied or pending too long, contact the plugin publisher.

2. Presets Missing?

If your presets aren’t showing up in your DAW or standalone app, it’s likely a permissions or folder issue. This guide applies to Windows 10, Windows 11, and macOS (Sequoia 15, Sonoma 14, Ventura 13, Monterey 12):

Ensure Access to Preset Folder:
1. Preset location:
  - Plugin installers will place documents in correct locations during install if given access. If not located in documents folder under "Otto Audio" then simple reinstall the plugin and be sure to give access.
2. Grant Permissions:
  - Windows 10/11:
    - Right-click the preset folder (e.g., Documents), select “Properties > Security.”
    - Ensure your user account has “Full Control.” Click “Edit” to adjust if needed.
    - Run your DAW/app as Administrator (right-click its icon > “Run as Administrator”) to bypass restrictions.
  - macOS (15/14/13/12):
    - Open “System Settings” (or “System Preferences” in Monterey) from the Apple menu.
    - Go to “Privacy & Security” > “Files and Folders.”
    - Find your DAW and standalone apps, toggle on access to “Documents Folder” (or the specific preset folder).
    - If presets are elsewhere, go to “Full Disk Access,” click “+,” add your apps, and enable them.
3. Reload in DAW / Standalone App:
  - Open your DAW or app, navigate to the preset menu (e.g., plugin settings or browser).
  - Force a rescan if available (e.g., “Refresh” or “Reload Presets” option, depending on the software).
4. Test Access:
  - Load a preset to confirm it works. If still missing, reinstall the plugin, ensuring it points to the correct folder during setup.
OS Notes:
- Windows: Presets should never be on external drive, must be local in documents.Also avoid OneDrive sync conflicts by keeping presets local.
- macOS: Post-Monterey, stricter permissions may require Full Disk Access for some apps. Restart your Mac after changing settings.

3. Samples Not Loading for VSTi’s?

If your virtual instrument samples aren’t loading:

Check Sample Location:
- Refer to the guide included with your plugin’s download documentation.
- Verify the samples folder is in the correct location as specified (e.g., the specific directory on your drive noted in download documents).
- Move to correct location or re-download samples if they’re missing or misplaced, then reload the plugin.

4. Plugin or VST3 Not Showing Up in Reaper, Studio One, Cubase, or Ableton?

If your plugin isn’t appearing, here’s how to rescan in each DAW (using VST3 for Reaper, Studio One, Cubase, Ableton, FL Studio; AAX for Pro Tools; AU for Logic Pro X, GarageBand):

Reaper (VST3): Video showing how in REAPER
1. OR Text version:
  Go to Options > Preferences > Plug-ins > VST.
2. Ensure C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3 (Windows) or /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST3 (macOS) is in “VST plug-in paths.” Add it if missing.
3. Click “Clear cache/re-scan,” then “Rescan” (uncheck “Scan new/updated only”).
4. On macOS, grant Reaper access in System Settings > Privacy & Security > Files and Folders. On Windows, run as Administrator.
5. Check the FX Browser for your VST3.
Studio One (VST3):
1. Go to Options > Locations > VST Plug-Ins.
2. Verify C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3 (Windows)
  or /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST3 (macOS) is listed. Add it if not.
3. Enable “Scan at startup,” click “Reset Blacklist,” then “OK.”
4. Restart Studio One. On macOS, ensure permissions in System Settings > Privacy & Security. On Windows, run as Administrator.
5. Check Browse > Instruments for your VST3.
Cubase (VST3):
1. Open Studio > VST Plug-in Manager.
2. In “Plug-in Path Settings,” ensure C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3 (Windows) or /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST3 (macOS) is listed. Add it via “Add” if missing.
3. Click “Rescan All” or the refresh icon.
4. On macOS, grant Cubase access in System Settings > Privacy & Security. On Windows, run as Administrator.
5. Check the plug-in list or add it to a track from the Inspector.
Ableton Live (VST3):
1. Go to Preferences > Plug-ins.
2. Toggle “Use VST3 Plug-In System Folder” on (default: C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3 or /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST3).
3. Hold Alt/Option and click “Rescan” for a deep scan.
4. On macOS, grant access in System Settings > Privacy & Security. On Windows, run as Administrator.
5. Look in the Browser under Plug-ins > VST3.
Pro Tools (AAX):
1. Ensure AAX plugins are in C:\Program Files\Common Files\Avid\Audio\Plug-Ins (Windows) or /Library/Application Support/Avid/Audio/Plug-Ins (macOS).
2. Close Pro Tools, delete cache: Windows: <USER>\AppData\Roaming\Avid\Pro Tools\Plug-In Settings; macOS: ~/Library/Preferences/Avid/Pro Tools.
3. Reopen Pro Tools for an auto-scan, or go to Setup > Preferences > Processing and click “Rescan Plug-Ins.”
4. On macOS, grant Full Disk Access. On Windows, run as Administrator.
5. Check Inserts on a track for your AAX plugin.
FL Studio (VST3):
1. Go to Options > Manage Plugins.
2. Under “Plugin search paths,” add C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3 (Windows)
  or
  /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST3 (macOS) if missing.
3. Click “Start scan” (select “Verify plugins” for a deeper check).
4. On macOS, grant access in System Settings > Privacy & Security. On Windows, run as Administrator.
5. Check the Plugin Database or Mixer effects slots for your VST3.
Logic Pro X (AU):
1. Ensure AU plugins are in /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/Components or ~/Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/Components (macOS).
2. Open Logic Pro > Preferences > Plug-in Manager.
3. Click “Full Audio Unit Reset” or select your plugin and click “Rescan Selection.”
4. Grant Logic access in System Settings > Privacy & Security > Files and Folders.
5. Check the plug-in menu in the Mixer or Channel Strip for your AU plugin.
GarageBand (AU):
1. Ensure AU plugins are in /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/Components or ~/Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/Components(macOS).
2. Quit and reopen GarageBand—it auto-scans AU plugins on launch.
3. Grant access in System Settings > Privacy & Security > Files and Folders.
4. Check Smart Controls or Audio FX slots for your AU plugin.
5. If missing, reinstall the AU plugin and restart GarageBand.

Notes

Keep iLok Manager, your DAW, and plugins updated.
Restart your computer after making changes if issues persist.
Ensure plugins match your DAW’s format (VST3, AAX, AU) and are 64-bit, as most modern DAWs don’t support 32-bit.

5. How to Use Impulse Responses with Free External IR Loaders?

Impulse Responses (IRs) let you replicate a speaker cabinet’s sound digitally. Free IR loaders like NADIR (Ignite Amps) or Cab-Lab 4 (Fractal Audio) can enhance your amp sim tones. Here’s how (example uses II II II II from OTTO AUDIO):

Watch this video:
- You can also follow these steps in text:
  
  Setup:
  1. Download an IR Loader:
    - Get NADIR from Ignite Amps or Cab-Lab 4 from Fractal Audio. Install as VST/AU in your DAW.
  2. Insert Amp Sim:
    - Add your amp sim (e.g., II II II II) to a DAW track.
  3. Disable Cabinet:
    - In the amp sim, turn off the cab sim—e.g., in II II II II switch to back view by clicking on tubes, toggle the cab switch off (bypasses the built-in cab). This prevents doubling up on cab sims, which muddies the sound.
  4. Add IR Loader:
    - Insert NADIR or Cab-Lab 4 after the amp sim in the effects chain.
  5. Load IR:
    - NADIR: Click the file browser, load a .wav IR file (e.g., Otto Audio Cab IR paks). Adjust high/low-pass filters or delay if blending two IRs. Not necessary if using Otto Audio Cab IR's or other MPT impulses from other vendors
    - Cab-Lab 4: Set to “Single IR Mode,” drag a .wav into the IR slot. Use the 4-channel mixer for multiple IRs if desired.
  6. Test:
    - Play through your setup. Tweak amp sim gain/EQ and IR loader settings for your tone.
- Tips:
  - Disable cab sims in your specific amp plugin (check its manual for the cab section location—often a speaker icon or “Cab” tab).
  - NADIR is lightweight and great for dual IRs; Cab-Lab 4 offers more mixing options.
  - Grab IR's from OTTO AUDIO for the heaviest of tones.
6. Why Trash Pro Tools Preferences and How to Do It?

You might need to trash Pro Tools preferences if you’re facing crashes, plugins not loading, sluggish performance, or settings corruption after updates or plugin installs. Resetting clears out corrupted files.
- How to Trash Preferences:
  - Windows:
    1. Close Pro Tools.
    2. Navigate to C:\Users\<YourName>\AppData\Roaming\Avid\Pro Tools.
    3. Delete the Preferences folder and any .prefs files (e.g., ProToolsPrefs).
    4. Empty the Recycle Bin.
    5. Reopen Pro Tools—it regenerates fresh preferences and will rescan plugins.
  - macOS:
    1. Quit Pro Tools.
    2. Open Finder, press Cmd + Shift + G, type ~/Library/Preferences/Avid/Pro Tools.
    3. Delete all files in this folder (e.g., com.avid.ProTools.plist).
    4. Empty the Trash.
    5. Restart your Mac, then launch Pro Tools to reset preferences and rescan plugins.
  - Note: Backup custom settings (e.g., I/O setups) beforehand if needed, as this wipes everything.
7. Running Plugins as Administrator in Windows 11

Unsigned or self-signed plugins may fail to load due to Windows 11 security. Here’s how to run them as Administrator:
- Set to Run as Admin Automatically:
  1. For Desktop Apps: Right-click the app on the desktop, select “Show more options” > “Properties” > “Compatibility” tab, check “Run this program as an administrator,” then click “Apply” and “OK.”
  2. For Non-Desktop Apps: Click the Windows Search button, type the app’s name, right-click it, select “Open file location,” then right-click the executable, choose “Show more options” > “Properties” > “Compatibility” tab, check “Run this program as an administrator,” and click “Apply” and “OK.”
  3. Open your DAW—plugins should load with elevated privileges.
    
    still have questions? Email support@ottoaudio.net
    also, YouTube search for your problem will usually yield a solution

Scroll until you find the issue you are having:Click here to download this as a pdf guide

1. New Computer and Need Your Downloads?

Redownload the Plugin:

Visit Ottoaudio.net, re-download the trial demo for any plugin, not full paid version.

The license activated in iLok Manager on your new machine is what makes it a full version. Do this before opening your DAW. (see how to below)

During installation, grant access to the Documents folder for presets. Without this, presets won’t load.

Activating in iLok Manager:

Go to ilok.com, click "Download" to get the iLok License Manager installer.

Install it, then open iLok License Manager.

Sign in with your iLok account credentials.

Find your plugin license in the list, right-click it, and select "Activate."

Choose your activation location: Cloud Session, your machine, or a USB dongle.

Follow prompts to complete activation.

Get your licenses back with Machine Activation Reset (If Computer Was Damaged, Lost, Stolen, or Sold):

If your old computer is inaccessible and licenses weren’t deactivated:

Launch iLok License Manager and sign in.

On the left, select the grayed-out host computer that’s inaccessible.

Click “Show Details” to view its info.

Click “Report as Unusable.”

In the “Report Computer as Unusable” dialog, enter a reason for the reset (e.g., “Computer stolen” or “Hard drive failed”) under “Information for software publisher(s).”

Check “I understand…” and click “Submit Request.”

After submission, a “Report Complete” dialog appears—click “Close.”

Verify the reset request: In the computer’s details, “Activation Location” should show “Reset Requested.”

Wait for publisher approval (PACE doesn’t approve/deny). If approved, licenses return to your iLok account for reactivation. If denied or pending too long, contact the plugin publisher.

2. Presets Missing?

If your presets aren’t showing up in your DAW or standalone app, it’s likely a permissions or folder issue. This guide applies to Windows 10, Windows 11, and macOS (Sequoia 15, Sonoma 14, Ventura 13, Monterey 12):

Ensure Access to Preset Folder:

Preset location:

Plugin installers will place documents in correct locations during install if given access. If not located in documents folder under "Otto Audio" then simple reinstall the plugin and be sure to give access.

Grant Permissions:

Windows 10/11:

Right-click the preset folder (e.g., Documents), select “Properties > Security.”

Ensure your user account has “Full Control.” Click “Edit” to adjust if needed.

Run your DAW/app as Administrator (right-click its icon > “Run as Administrator”) to bypass restrictions.

macOS (15/14/13/12):

Open “System Settings” (or “System Preferences” in Monterey) from the Apple menu.

Go to “Privacy & Security” > “Files and Folders.”

Find your DAW and standalone apps, toggle on access to “Documents Folder” (or the specific preset folder).

If presets are elsewhere, go to “Full Disk Access,” click “+,” add your apps, and enable them.

Reload in DAW / Standalone App:

Open your DAW or app, navigate to the preset menu (e.g., plugin settings or browser).

Force a rescan if available (e.g., “Refresh” or “Reload Presets” option, depending on the software).

Test Access:

Load a preset to confirm it works. If still missing, reinstall the plugin, ensuring it points to the correct folder during setup.

OS Notes:

Windows: Presets should never be on external drive, must be local in documents.Also avoid OneDrive sync conflicts by keeping presets local.

macOS: Post-Monterey, stricter permissions may require Full Disk Access for some apps. Restart your Mac after changing settings.

3. Samples Not Loading for VSTi’s?

If your virtual instrument samples aren’t loading:

Check Sample Location:

Refer to the guide included with your plugin’s download documentation.

Verify the samples folder is in the correct location as specified (e.g., the specific directory on your drive noted in download documents).

Move to correct location or re-download samples if they’re missing or misplaced, then reload the plugin.

4. Plugin or VST3 Not Showing Up in Reaper, Studio One, Cubase, or Ableton?

If your plugin isn’t appearing, here’s how to rescan in each DAW (using VST3 for Reaper, Studio One, Cubase, Ableton, FL Studio; AAX for Pro Tools; AU for Logic Pro X, GarageBand):

Reaper (VST3): Video showing how in REAPER

OR Text version: Go to Options > Preferences > Plug-ins > VST.

Ensure C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3 (Windows) or /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST3 (macOS) is in “VST plug-in paths.” Add it if missing.

Click “Clear cache/re-scan,” then “Rescan” (uncheck “Scan new/updated only”).

On macOS, grant Reaper access in System Settings > Privacy & Security > Files and Folders. On Windows, run as Administrator.

Check the FX Browser for your VST3.

Studio One (VST3):

Go to Options > Locations > VST Plug-Ins.

Verify C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3 (Windows) or /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST3 (macOS) is listed. Add it if not.

Enable “Scan at startup,” click “Reset Blacklist,” then “OK.”

Restart Studio One. On macOS, ensure permissions in System Settings > Privacy & Security. On Windows, run as Administrator.

Check Browse > Instruments for your VST3.

Cubase (VST3):

Open Studio > VST Plug-in Manager.

In “Plug-in Path Settings,” ensure C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3 (Windows) or /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST3 (macOS) is listed. Add it via “Add” if missing.

Click “Rescan All” or the refresh icon.

On macOS, grant Cubase access in System Settings > Privacy & Security. On Windows, run as Administrator.

Check the plug-in list or add it to a track from the Inspector.

Ableton Live (VST3):

Go to Preferences > Plug-ins.

Toggle “Use VST3 Plug-In System Folder” on (default: C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3 or /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST3).

Hold Alt/Option and click “Rescan” for a deep scan.

On macOS, grant access in System Settings > Privacy & Security. On Windows, run as Administrator.

Look in the Browser under Plug-ins > VST3.

Pro Tools (AAX):

Scroll until you find the issue you are having:

Click here to download this as a pdf guide

OR Text version:
Go to Options > Preferences > Plug-ins > VST.

Verify C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3 (Windows)
or /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST3 (macOS) is listed. Add it if not.

Under “Plugin search paths,” add C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3 (Windows)
or
/Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST3 (macOS) if missing.

Impulse Responses (IRs) let you replicate a speaker cabinet’s sound digitally. Free IR loaders like NADIR (Ignite Amps) or Cab-Lab 4 (Fractal Audio) can enhance your amp sim tones. Here’s how (example uses II II II II from OTTO AUDIO):

Watch this video:

You can also follow these steps in text:

Setup: