Reading up on GPL3 (re ASIO and VST)

[Rock_Hardbuns]

[…]They also draw the line at System Libraries: you’re not required to provide the source for certain core components of the operating system, such as the C library.

GPLv3 has adjusted the definition of System Library to include software that may not come directly with the operating system, but that all users of the software can reasonably be expected to have. For example, it now also includes the standard libraries of common programming languages such as Python and Ruby.

Emphasis by me.

Considering that people release GPL:ed software that require the directX SDK, or .NET SDK to build, on the basis of this exception, are the ASIO and VST SDK:s really any different?

It seems like MS’ SDK:s get a free pass by default, but I can’t really see why Steinbergs SDK:s shouldn’t be given the same status.

In any case, I think this argument is sufficient for proceeding in good faith and win the trivial arguments that may arise when some a-hole starts bugging you for not including the SDK in the source package.