Access Virus TI Polar Integrated Modeling Synth
Totally integrated synthesizer. 80 voice polyphony. 37 Velocity and Aftertouch sensitive keys. WaveTable and HyperSaw. Emulated Mini Moog Filter.
Overall User Ratings (based on 28 ratings)
Submitted October 29, 2008 by a customer from yahoo.com
"THE VIRUS CHANGED MY LIFE!"
This review has been selected by our experts as particularly helpful.
I was synth shopping for a while and finally decided on this and haven't looked back. I am more and more amazed by its potential everyday, and know I will continue to learn about sound design and synthesis because of its features and power. At some point I'd like to get another synth but I think it would have to be a Virus! That's only to add to my studio gear. If this product were lost/stolen, first I'd cry and try and kill whoever stole it. Then I'd get myself another one, even if I had to be in debt for a while! I like the features, design, and sound of it the best. What do I like least?? Hmm.. I can't even think of one thing, really. Oh, that there is no case that is made for it- you have to get a custom one made. That's about it, really..and no fault of Access'. Once you own one of these though, the investment is more than worth it.
Sound
The sound of the Virus is unmistakable. It can be warm, gritty, beautiful, distorted, crazy... its range is unbeatable, and it truly is the most powerful synth on the market.
Features
It's the only hardware synth out there with the Total Integration capability (using it as a VST in a host sequencing program). The Matrix Modulation lets you assign 3 parameters to a control surface that you choose, which is very powerful and useful. Hypersaw also rules.
Ease of Use
The manual has a very thorough tutorial that guides you through all the knobs and sections. People complain it's too menu-based and complicated, but I think they expect to just sit down and get it right away. Like anything, if you put in the time, it will pay off. It's a synth that you can make awesome sounds with right away, but also can grow into over the years.
Quality
Beautifully made, not a detail left off. It's a sleek, gorgeous design, built like a tank (my Polar is 19 pounds!) and has a beautiful wood panel below the keys. The action on the keys is perfect too (I'm a piano player too, so I'm really picky about this).
Value
Sure, these aren't cheap, but they're built to last, have an incredible sound, and the features are spot on. There are cheaper and more expensive synths out there, and I'm glad I made the decision to go with a Virus.
Manufacturer Support
Excellent customer support. Every time I've contacted tech support, I heard back literally within a few hours. They are super helpful and friendly, trying to figure out each of my issues one by one. Definitely better than any other company I've dealt with!
The Wow Factor
Wow....just look at the thing. It is pure sexiness!!! They definitely got the sex appeal factor down! Add that to an insanely awesome machine on the inside, and it's pure perfection.
Musical Background:
Hobbyist
Musical Style:
Techno
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Submitted November 28, 2005 by a customer from gmail.com
"Hot synth with a couple quirks"
Verified Customer
zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
Sound
Sounds amazing.
Quality
So they released it before the control software was mature, but they're quickly getting better. Biggest gripe is the power chord. It barely sits in there. At least it's an internal power supply. Everything else is top notch.
Value
It's a tad pricy since it's new, but once you can get it for 2G, it'll be worth every penny.
Musical Background:
Producer
Musical Style:
Techno
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Submitted January 25, 2008 by a customer from yahoo.co.uk
"The best synth on the market."
The first perfect VA synth.
Sound
I agree - REALLY - the bes VA ever!Or more!Warm and fat sound - perfect in every shape of music:Basses,effects,pads,leads - on the TOP!
Features
Modern hibryd system - with great features.
This is the future for a real keyboardist.
80 voices of Polyphony!
Ease of Use
You need only minutes for the basics - and hours to use the instrument easely for composing or doing fun.
Quality
Top quality with retro but futuristic design.
Value
Realistic price for a unique instrument.
Manufacturer Support
Everything is on their web-site.
The Wow Factor
Love at first sight:)
Musical Background:
band director
Musical Style:
Alternative.
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Submitted May 2, 2007
"Sounds Amazing - Best VA ever!!!!!!!!!!"
Amazing sound, sounds that are unheard of. It even does moogy like basses as well as obi pads and jupiter sounds.
Sound
Virtually Fat!!! This synth is pure techno and dance heaven. Massive lush sounds. I use it for hiphop and it really works well and sounds unique. better sounding than any other VA, much better than Waldorf Q, and much better than V synth. The hypersaw is faaattt.
Features
Fully equipt for everything and much more. It has a beatiful layout, and th einterface is clutter free. the knobs are amazing too. i love the white finish with the wood panel below - very classy.
Ease of Use
Difficult to failry easy. The more you use it, the better the understanding of the sound engine.
Quality
Built like a tank, and looks very modern and sleek. the white coating is ace.
Value
For the money, it offer far better value over the v synth or the waldorf stuff. The sound engine is classic virus refined - it's all over music we listen to.
Manufacturer Support
The support is pretty cool, they respond well and email back - so no issues there.
The Wow Factor
very sexy unit, it has that classy act to it. This one is the vest looking virus to date...period.
Musical Background:
4 years
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