Getting Started with Aether
Install Aether, load it in your DAW or standalone, connect an AI provider with an API key — or run fully offline with Ollama or LM Studio.
Setup
Getting Started
Installation
Download the installer for your platform from the Aether product page. Run the installer and follow the prompts. The plugin will be installed to your system's default plugin directory:
| Platform | VST3 Location | AU Location |
|---|---|---|
| macOS | ~/Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST3/ | ~/Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/Components/ |
| Windows | C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3\ | N/A |
First Launch
- ●Open Aether in your DAW (load it as an instrument/MIDI effect) or launch the standalone app.
- ●Select an AI provider from the dropdown at the top of the chat panel.
- ●For cloud providers: click the gear icon, paste your API key, and click Save.
- ●For local providers (Ollama or LM Studio): enter your server URL and click Refresh Models.
- ●Type a description of the MIDI you want and press Enter or click Send.
API Keys
Cloud AI providers require an API key. You can get one from each provider's website — most offer free tiers or pay-per-use pricing starting at fractions of a cent per generation. API keys are stored securely in your system's keychain (macOS Keychain, Windows Credential Manager).
To add or update a key: click the gear icon next to the provider dropdown, paste your key, and click Save. Keys are encrypted in transit and never leave your machine.
Local Models (No API Key Required)
Aether supports fully offline generation with local AI models via Ollama or LM Studio. Install either application, download a model (we recommend at least a 7B parameter model for decent results), and Aether will auto-discover your available models.
| Provider | Default Server | Model Discovery |
|---|---|---|
| Ollama | localhost:11434 | Auto-fetched via /api/tags |
| LM Studio | localhost:1234 | Auto-fetched via /v1/models |