VST developers also exist in a space where their $100+ USD products are one of dozens that a person wants use, in a relatively small market, where many people are hobbyists who don't make money off their music. DAW entry costs are already high, with two of the most popular being Ableton Live Standard at $450 and FL Studio Producer at $199. They don't expect amateur Joe to license thousands of dollars worth of software just so he can post to his 15 followers on Soundcloud.