Comments on: Virus TI: The Synth That Thinks It’s Software, Finally Shipping

By: Guest

Guest — Tue, 01 Nov 2005 20:16:36 +0000

I was surprised by the midi/audio integration, I’s like what on earth is that ! I’m gonna buy that, no matter what! Not because Access added all these new features, I’d definitly take advantage of what’s new, don’t get me wrong…but i rather get this one instead of a virus b or c. Now who wouldn’t ? I know I could get a much better deal for a 2nd hand virus c…but I know that I’d regret the fact that I missed this opportunity. It looks good and sounds even better ! In all, I think the guys behind this beast are very much like us musicians, making our lives easier using the equipment, using midi/audio integration, what a blast ! I know now that I won’t be bugged about thinking to plug in’out midi cables… midi interface, bad syncing…Virus TI and me…makes one for faster creations and better results I say !
Virtual mixing…infinit possibilities…Who cares who can afford what and what not…if you want it, GO GET IT !
and be happy :)

By: Symbiotic

Symbiotic — Thu, 29 Sep 2005 14:36:49 +0000

Yes – it uses the hardware DSP in VST/AU mode. Only one instance is possible at a time, though it does have a full-multi mode.

By: Guest

Guest — Thu, 29 Sep 2005 10:45:30 +0000

Does the TI use it’s hardware DSP chips when it’s in VST mode – and if so, can you run more than one instance of the plugin at a time…?

By: reflex

reflex — Thu, 29 Sep 2005 01:54:20 +0000

On one hand, I’d love a Virus TI in my studio. On the other, I’m currently dating the much more affordable PowerCore|Virus. The only thing it’s missing is a nice, knobby interface. And real wood. Besides, my wife would banish me to the garden shed if another synth snuck into the house. Sadly, I suspect many people these days think like I do. I wish Access continued good luck!

By: Symbiotic

Symbiotic — Wed, 28 Sep 2005 20:05:36 +0000

The only reason other synths couldn’t have this level of integration would be cost – both of components and development. But I agree that for ‘flagship’ systems, this is bridging the gap between host-based vs. dsp-based vs. hardware systems.

But for me, inspiration comes from interface and capabilities. The other night I sat down on the couch with my Machinedrum and was immediately reminded of why it is such a great instrument – immediate, intuitive, inspiring. Quite simply, it is well designed, and designed to be a tool of creation. I’ve never found the Virus interface to be ‘intuitive’ the way that Machinedrum is, or the way a DSI PEK is…

Other than the software-interface, there isn’t much new with the TI.

By: admin

admin — Wed, 28 Sep 2005 18:48:09 +0000

I think quite simply the problem is economics. Look at the Korg OASYS — building multi-functional digital synths is expensive. The good news is, it won’t stay that way; circuitry prices continue to come down.

I agree about synthesis types. I think people are MORE than ready for new sounds, and while the virtual analog market is big, there’s a limit to how many instruments you need doing the same things.

But I do hope the TI is an indication of software integration to come. There’s no reason other synths couldn’t have this rich level of integration.

By: Symbiotic

Symbiotic — Wed, 28 Sep 2005 18:24:28 +0000

I know that the TI is the creme de la creme of Virtual Analogs. And I know that the VA market is still bigger than most other types of synths and samplers.

But it is really hard for me to get excited about ANY VA’s these days. It all seems to be ‘more of the same’ (but with obviously increasing levels of sophistication).

I’d really love to see more ingenuity along the lines of some of the boutique manufacturers (DSI PolyEvolver, for example). New synthesis types, new interfaces, etc.

I know not all manufacturers could survive in that market, but give me something NEW to play with – something different.

I’m sure this is an awesome synth, and I’d love to have one. But in all honesty, it is the synths that push the envelope (not simply better define it) that interest me. Roland V-Synth, Hartmann Neuron, etc…

As the old saying goes: subvert the dominant paradigm!