Access Music Virus kc

My synth has version 6.5 software, the most updated version. I bought mine used on eBay and the presets are not all the factory ones, but they are varied and mostly great sounding. There are also a lot of free patches to download from the web and on the Access website. Like the desktop version, this wickedly deep keyboard sports the identical layout of lights, knobs and buttons with the addition of a mod and pitch wheel. The action on the keyboard is excellent and smooth.

As much as I truly love this synth, it is not the easiest to use and learn right out of the box because each module has a dedicated edit button and certain super-cool functions like the modulation matrix and vocoder take some effort to comprehend. Once you get comfortable with multiple edit buttons and have some time to explore it, the layout becomes a lot easier and faster to use. It's actually a great design.

I didn't get the software with the keyboard, but I wish I had a patch editor for storage and editing multis. I don't miss it for patch creation though - I love playing with the knobs!

I think this keyboard has 32-voices, and I have never had a problem with notes being cut off. The effects are probably the best that have ever been included on a synthesizer - especially the signature phaser. It is a big part of the great sound of the Virus and the synth has a whole section of controls dedicated to them.

This board has so many features that it's impossible to list them all here. The best ones are the modulation matrix, 3 oscillators plus noise and ring mod, two filters including a modeled Moog filter, surround outputs, and stereo inputs for processing external sounds. The MIDI and Sys Ex implementation is excellent and the synth will automatically sense incoming MIDI clock and sync to it immediately.

Missing in action are a digital I/O and external patch storage to memory cards. Also, I do wish there were a few more buttons included that they left out - like some additional arpeggiator controls, more customizable live controllers and dedicated patch select buttons - but no keyboard has everything, and this one has much more than most.

This is where this synthesizer shines. The sounds are generally amazing with tons of motion and great stereo placement. It does an excellent job of soft etherial sounds and evolving pads as well as overdriven leads and aggressive stabs. The keyboard has a great feel and the aftertouch makes it very expressive and organic.

Drums are not really a part of this keyboard's repertoire although it can make great synthy drum and percussion sounds, and for bass, it has some great, phat sounds that use the Moog filter. But this is also where you can tell that this is a virtual analog instead of the real thing. AB'd against the real thing (Oberheim, Moog), it falls short of greatness. It doesn't mean that the basses aren't usable, only that they lack that signature analog thickness.

It is definitely an electronic instrument and I would not want to depend on it for replicating acoustic sounds - for that reason I would not recommend it to someone looking for an all-in-one gigging keyboard. (Unless you are totally into electronica) I would, however, highly recommend this keyboard to anyone who needs the best true synthesizer they can find. I expect this board to be a classic, if it isn't already.

I have not had any problems with this keyboard, but there are a couple of knobs that are excessively wobbly and will need to be re-soldered at some point in the future. Overall it feels like a solid build, but not unusually so. I have read other about problems, and I am thankful that mine has held up well so far.

Can't comment much on this since I've never had to use them. Their website is helpful and has product documentation as well as free patches and operating system downloads.

If this keyboard were stolen, I'd definitely either a) hire Dawg to track the bastard down and recover my treasure or b) buy another KC since this was the last in a long series. I own a lot of other gear and this board scratches an itch that no other keyboard can touch. I bought this looking for the VA "sound" and compared it to the Novation and Nord gear and also the Roland V-Synth which is so cool, but sounds like a toy. I also thought about the Andromeda, but I already have one real analog beast with my OB-8. Each of the keyboards I looked at were worthy of ownership, but the Virus offered the most features and widest variety of great sounds that I liked and didn't think I'd get tired of - the Nord didn't have any inputs and fewer oscillators and the Novation didn't have the edgy vibe. The surround outputs also were a big plus.

I have nine other keyboard synthesizers and this one is the one I Iove playing the most. The sounds are incredibly musical and they never cease to stimulate new ideas for songs and riffs. If you're looking for the best synth money can buy, buy this monster VA classic. You'll never regret it.

It's not a hard machine to understand. If you know your synthesis basics it VERY easy to use, i mean this is my 1st hardware synth and it took me around a week to understand the machine from A to Y, not Z, the vocoder still being a mystery for me. It's exactly why i did not gave a 10 score.

32 voices of polyphony, 4 oscillators, ring mod, 3 LFOs and a matrix mod panel (which is totaly wicked!) 2 filters, disto, reverb, delay, flanger, chorus and vocoder, what more can i ask? Oh yeah! auto-sync to midi clock and pressure sensitive

I have only one thing to say: WOW! Rich, thick, powerfull, mean sound. The filters and oscillators are really well emulated. The only thing that sounds better than this guy is a real analog synth. The FX module is amazing, i process a lot of external sound into it.

That's the BAD part here. Very unreliable: the keyboard gives me free games: it just stop working once in a while and when it does, the machine says ``Virus C`` rather than ``Virus KC`` as the OS loads. Don't be fooled by it's sturdy look, it's very poorly built

Those arrogant cocky bastards...it is virtualy impossible to obtain spare/replacement parts in Canada. Also you need a password to obtain documentation on the web site. I feel like taking a trip to Germany in order to get it fixed.

I would probably get a TI if I'd loose my KC. I love its sound and it interface but not reliable. I think the equivalent would be the Nord lead 3. Hyper-saw oscillator woulc have been a good featurebut you can find it in the TI Virus. Overall it's a very good machine. I love it

Really excellant synth and easy to handle after about a week of familiarisation. Yes there are some menues, but most of the parameters you'll ever need (or want to use) are accesiblle from the knobs. Not a 10 out of 10 but a definite 9.7 out of 10 for me...

Build quality is superb. This board is totally rock solid and I mean totally. Reasurringly heavy, quality knobs and buttons. Wicket LCD display and the nicest key action of any synth - semi weighted. Great midi implementation, six analog outs, headphone socket, inputs...it has it all.

In a nutshell, superb. Real personality and presence from a VA. Yes the ION is more realistic (for analog emulation), but there is no denying the Virus has a very identifiable tone. Sure to become a classic - already amongst dance/electronic producers. Possibly the nicest VA synth ever made.

The Virus KC is capable of sounds covering any genre. Totally synthetic - no real instrument emulations.

Never had any problems with mine. From what I hear and see, seems to be very reliable and robust. Id recommend this synth to anyone whos uneasy about investing similar money in old gear. The unit should age well and mechanically speaking...outperform most other synths.

Probably the best in the business. Prompt, friendly, personal and knowledgable. True professionals.

Definitely worth what I paid and more. Doubles as a great external sound mangler for other synths, drums and voices. Never get bored with this synth. The one and only VA I own and it'll probably stay that way. Just check out the other reviews and mp3 demo's on the net. Have you ever heard a synth sound like this? No, theres only one Virus.

Check out MP3's (Copy and paste link into your browser) @

www.access-music.de (loads of unique sounding sound bytes)

http://music.download.com/digitalscreams/3600-8363_32-100523664.html?tag=listing_song_artist

http://www.aliens-project.de/t_200405_access_virus.html

http://www.herten-music.com/audio/download.htm?ID=18 (100% Virus C song)

Check out the 'Unnoficial Access Virus user forum' here >>> http://www.sunesha.nu/virusforum/index.php

I use the newest OS 6.5
I don't recommend this Synth for newbies. And I don't recommend this synth for people with tired fingers, because your gona press buttons till you fall down on the floor and scream in pain. There are too many hidden menus. On the KC it's plenty of room for moore knobs and buttons. A supernova is alot! more easy to use!! So if menus bothers you, buy a Novation. On the otherhand, the PC editor is a big pluss, but you need a big screen with big a resolution, 1600x1200 to not get tired fingers!!

The presets are very good. Many Prodigy like sounds and Ambient like sounds. Shows what the synth is good for.

The manual is moore like, what can be done, instead of how to do. The manual is a big mistake. There should be several examples in the manual on how to create a patch. But it isn't.

Twisting the knobs is like running with a book on your head.
*steady...steady... NOOOO!* I mean it's too many parameters on one knob!

Why is the panel on the left side??? Why can't it be in the middle??
Buy the desktop model with a masterkeyboard so that you can get the panel in front of you.

32 Voices is not a limit for me. At this point.
16 Part multi is moore than enaugh. ;)
Great filter(s)!!
The delay is OK, I'm satisfied, chorus and reverb are ok as well.
But the effects is not Available for moore than 7 parts in a multi setup. You can't expand this thing, moore knobs and buttons would do the trick!

4 oscillators, 3 LFO's, Massive ModMatrix bakes good cookies for your studio sound library!! :D

This thing really looks great!

This instrument is poor on realistic emulation, and that's good. Go ELECTRONIC PEOPLE!!

I use this Synth for Trance of any kind, make it PSyco Trance or what you call it!! :D

The effects is nothing to complain about! Very good indeed!
With this keeboard,you could play for hours, the best kayboard i've ever used! It will make you play!

It's too easy to make organs!

Sometimes it hangs, and specially that computer software. I'm not impressed!

USB is more optimal than MIDI

It's easy to loose the patch by get your finger on the wrong place. It's too tight between the buttons and the knobs. Playing and knobing can make it go slower.

You never loose data! (Like the most other synths)

Oh yes, this is not the best thing with Access. I sendt them a mail, because my VIRUS was delivered With a GERMAN MANUAL! I tried to download the Manual from the web, and the PDF file demanded a password to print it out! I asked them to send me an English manual, but no can do. Arrogant Bastards!!! My local store imported one from Sweden.

A plus is the os updates, the Q&A, all the forums.

I hope I never loose it! Because it's too expensive to loose. But I would buy a Nord Lead 3 with a K-Station instead really. It's better to have many synths, than one big. It's much easier to get different sounds that way.

I wish it had NO MENUS, a more explaining Manual, the knob/button panel at the center of the keyboard, effects on all 16 parts, USB connector.

Buy the Desktop model honestly if you really want a Virus.
If you ask me, buy a used Nova, Nordlead 2x, Access Virus A

Easy to use. Menues are there for those who want to dig deep. Simple analog sounds can be made with the same ease as old analogs. If however, u are wanting to make realistic harpsicords etc....then u will need to go into the menues and invert envelopes and whatever. But lets face it....digital/analog 'sounds' is where its at. If I want piano or harpsicord i'd use samples.

Bloody feature packed OMG. The on-board effects are amzing and a real + point for me. Lack of simultaneous reverb/delay....might be an issue for some. GET A LIFE!

Superb key action on the KC. I control my Prophet One form the Virus. The Virus definitely has the nicest non weighted synth action of any instrument. I can say that with absolute certaintly. Just makes u wanna spend hours on it. Great modulation possibilies and 64 digital waveforms.....just excellant!

'Classic' virus sound is attributed to awesome digital filters and 'phaser' onbaord effect. THe Virus can cover ALL synth ground in my opinion. It is a real workhorse. Etheral pads which are creamy and warm, fat/distorted basses and leads and the most amazing ambient collages since the Korg Wavestation. Some people say the oscilaotrs sound weak......well this is not really true. When you stick your synth sounds in a mix then....the you suddenly realise the full girth of the Virus. Users of the Virus will know what im talking about. This synth sounds pretty dark and amospheric. Its actually quite hard to make brite (e.g. Nord) type sounds. Its domain is darkness and there it should stay. Thats its usp. The only other synth that springs to mind that has this dark characteristic is old Sequential gear. The Virus however is not quite in the same league as all out analog rawness...no digital synth is.

Really the bottom line is this. The Virus can make almost any synth sound u care to mention. And it does it very, very well. With the addition of the new Moog filter emulation, esp the 1-pole......god the rawness of sound.....Ive never heard from a digitla synth before. Seriously good.

The only issue I have is this, RELIABILITY. Everything in this world is unreliable to a certain extent.....its weird but true. Why cant people make products 100% reliable? Does it come down to craftmanship? Money? I just dont know....but there are several things to look out for on the Virus, esp the KC version.

1) KEYS - you may find one or two keys start making an annoying clicking noise and feel weird. Its a bit off putting....and raises a ? mark over the longjevity of that particualr key. Are spare parts going to be made available??

2) As with all new synths.....the knobs may feels great at first....but some may rapidly deteriorate into wobbly, crusty feeling knobs. I had this on 2 of the Virus' Ive owned.

3) General OS weirdness. For example....leave ur Virus on for 4 hours and watch that arpegiator reach 50 million BPM's. U may experience the odd occasion of note grabbing aswell. I reccommend a reset/reinitialise every 4-5 hours of intensive studio use.

Apart from that...ive experienced no other problems.

Overall, Access is the best in the industry. I dont say that lightly.

If you have the money spare and you need one synth that can cover alot of ground to a very pleasing/satisfying/sophisticated level then the Virus should be your first choice.

Hello. Im using the latest operating system (6.5) the one with the 'analogue' filters. The presets are impressive (for the first week or so, I was like WOW!). Gives you a good idea to what kinda of sounds are possible and what the tone of the Virus actually is. Every parameter that you use day-to-day has dedicated knowbs and buttons. Overall its very easy to use. The manual is comprehensive/detailed...but i find manuals boring haha!

Probably the most feature packed hardware synth ever made. Endless sonic possibilities. Famous 'phaser' effect used on most post 1997 electronic material. Additional onboard effects are equally as good. Fully midified (but I hate midi and dont use it). Expansion is via software upgrades (most bugs have been long since eliminated - the design team are making f*&^ing awesome filter emulations now). The Virus filter sounds awesome (lets remember here folks...this is a digital synth...and digital filters can sometimes sound real shite ala JP8000 style) but I think the moog filter sounds unbelievably good for an emulation.

Its the most satisfying VA synth I own. I use it for leads, pads and fx. Its a superb sounding dance/ambient synth. However, I would really love to see Access design a true analog polysynth (for us musicians who have money). The Andromeda A6 compliments the JP-8 and Prophet 5 very nicely. They are all equals in my mind. THe VIrus KC (In terms of sound) is not quite up there....but wins on sheer versatility. For all of you who think the Virus sounds great, I salut you!

The only true negative comment I have about this synth is its goddamn reliability....or lack of. By todays standards, the build quality is excellant (physical construction).....but there seems to be a bit of an issue with some of the components (i.e. LED's, circuit board, memory). Obviously cheap, mass produced digital components probably dont undergo the level of testing that analog components do...but it would be nice if a #1400 synth could be free from these little niggles. There is nothing majorly wrong with this synth.....but it is possible that you will experience some kind of issue (whether it be software related or hardware). I cant put it into context with other new synths.....

Do not let that put you off though. Ive had 5 replacements of the Virus KC....and I still love it. There is no other synth that sounds like it. It has a similar strength of character to that of the JP8 and P5. The Virus tone is equally recognisable. Ive decided to not score this category....b'cos I Really dont know what to put. I'd say around 8.

Any problems are addressed easily and they are very helpful/professional. There is a cool Virus forumn for users. If you have any comments or questions...they are a really friendly bunch in there >> http://www.sunesha.nu/virusforum/index.php

Well, I believe the hype is justly deserved. It is a feature packed, sexy looking, well built, superb sounding VA synth. In my opinion it is the most analogue sounding digital synth out there. If you cant afford a true analogue/dont want to take the risk investing in something 20 yrs old....then the Virus is hands down...the 2nd best option. To me, the likes of Andromeda A6, JP-8 and P5 sounds 'better' but for sensible money, the Virus has more bang for buck.

would give this a 10 if it weren't for the manual.
just tuning in sounds with the knobs is easy as always, but if you have to go deeper and use the manual, you're on your own.
half the stuff in the manual doesn't match what's actually in the board.
i had to find my way around it by feel - keep going thru the menus till you start to memorize it.
the programming tutorial manual is a nice read, tho.

best synth keybed i've ever played.
the sounds that grab you seem to rely heavily on the arps and effects - but damn!- they're good.
board supports release velocity which ia a favorite feature of mine and was a deciding factor in my purchase.
polyphony is fine for a VA.

i've been using synths for about 20 years, and this synth sounds about the best i've ever heard.
as stated, this thing is great to play, velocity response is right on, aftertouch takes the right amount of pressure and it's very easy to dial in release velocity in the mod matrix to get some truly expressive playing.

had to return the first one because one key wouldn't trigger notes within a middle-area velocity range.
i was extremely disappointed, but got a replacement and am keeping my fingers crossed - so far so good, but it's only been a few weeks on my 2nd one.

never dealt with them directly, but they've sent me notices when updates come out.
lots of sounds on their site, programming tutorial, os updates, etc.

if anyone tries to take this synth, i'll rip their face off and leave it for the wolves.
it's worth every cent i paid. i really, really like everything about this synth.
i've got quite a bit of other gear, but this is by far my favorite.
no, i'm not still on a 'honeymoon' with it.
i've owned enough other gear to know what i want.
i looked for specific features and specific sound and the access virus c keyboard is where i found it.

Virus indigo redback, 3 units

Software version 5.0
5.0
5.0
First two upgraded to 6.0 and the last one to 6.5

Presets really do show off what this beast can do. But it's not about the presets now is it?

I have to rate this poorly and will explain later.

Very flexible modulation matrix...i really miss it. :(

Oh the sounds...Beautiful, extreme, pounding, clarity...i could go on. The virus has to be the most expressive synth I've had the pleasure of owning.

Ah. Now here is where this little monster fell short of perfect for me.
I have been through three, yes three redback units in under 3 months!! I returned the first unit to turnkey because the synth action keyboard was making a terrible noise on a few keys. If you've ever had to open up a keyboard then you'll know what that sprung assembly looks like. It's essentially metal sprung metal plates in kontact with the keys. Now this keyboard sounded like a few keys had damaged or kinked sprung metal plates underneath. It may seem like a minor complaint but for #1350 I expect this keyboard to be BUILT WELL!

The second indigo redback i aquired II was happy to find didn't have this problem. When the new OS became available to download i eagerly d/l and installed. This seemed not to be a good idea. After that the poor keyboard failed to respond. I followed the instructions to the letter...what happend!?

Ok redback number three and turnkey are getting a little pissed of seeing my face, and i'm pissed at having to return but anyway i get my virus home set it up...It works...phew! The bloody keys are making that same metal kinking sound :( sigh. I cant be bothered to return it now I'm just gonna have to live with it. I upgrade to the lateset OS 6.5 and it's all good Moog filters here we go!! All is perfect for a few days but then one evening i switch it on and the keyboard doesnt respond? I can trigger sounds from another keyboard ok, i look for the local on/off switch and ...it's not there, in fact it's missing from the menu entirely!!?? Sounddiver (OEM) can't switch it to local on. The keyboard doesn't work. Next day it still doesnt work so I take it back to turnkey they switch it on...guess bloody what works...great!! NOT! The guy there tells me he has a virus KC that every now and then goes a bit screwy but he puts up with it. I however cannot put up with these kinds of quirks in OS or engineering.

The online service has yet to really shine but I believe they will get it going

I love this synth and miss it greatly but it just wasn't to be I think. I still read about it annd wish i didn't witness these problems and that I still had the unit. I had big plans for it in my setup. I think though that I must be very unlucky (if you can believe the term) I wouldn't put anybody off buying one but I would want to let people know what I've experienced. I still think Access are producing the best VA's on the market and mabye next time I'll have a chance to give thier product the marks I feel it deserves.

Every major parameter has dedicated knob/button. Light menue work for 'extra' special sounds. I actually think the overall layout and response of this synth is very good.

OS updates - Latest version is 6.5 I think. The Virus KC now has a very good moog filter emulation......which makes for awesome bass/leads/pads. Menue system has been streamlined as much as possible....I cant see how they can improve it....its very good.

*High-quality, semi-weighted, velocity and aftertouch capable, 61-keys

*Master-keyboard functions

*Internal Power Supply

*Pitch bend, modwheel and two jacks for switch/expression pedals

*Real Wood side panels

*Dimensions: 975 x 351 x 112 mm

*Weight: 13kg, 16.5 kg w. packaging

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*32 knobs
*35 buttons
*69 LEDs

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COMPLETE ENGINE OF VIRUS C:

*32-voice polyphony and 16-part multitimbral capability
1024 programs [256 User / 768 ROM / 128 Multi]

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32-voice polyphony with 16-part multitimbral capability
1024 programs (256 User / 768 ROM / 128 Multi)

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*Undo/Redo/Random features to defeat ?oops? and "writer's block"

*4 oscillators per voice. 3 main plus one sub [when all oscillators are in use, polyphony may decrease, but not by more than 6 voices.]

*Pure Tuning adaptive tuning (based on Hermode Tuning)

*Sawtooth, variable pulse, sine, triangle + 62 additional spectral waves

*FM [Frequency modulation] with or without external Input signals

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*2 filters selectable as lowpass, highpass, bandpass or bandreject

*4 filter configurations (serial/ parallel) for up to 6 poles [36 dB]
Alternative Mini Moog Style resonating Filter with 1,2,3 or 4 poles.

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*3 LFOs with 68 LFO shapes

*Loop or Envelope LFO modes with midi clock sync

*2 ADSTR envelopes [T=Time]

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*16 independent arpeggiators with numerous arpeggiator patterns and real time parameter access/modulation including swing & note length.

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98 simultaneous DSP effects:

*Reverb [w. pre-delay sync to MIDI-clock]
*3-Band EQ per program/part [low/hi shelf + parametric mid]
*Retro Phaser [6-stage stereo phaser with 24 filter-poles
*Multiple independent distortion/saturation/Lo-fi FX per voice, including multiple distortion/shaper characteristics and variable gain.
*Chorus/Flanger with rate sync to midi tempo
*Simple or "Groove" Delay [preset polyrhythmic patterns]
*32-band advanced vocoder
*Ring Modulator
*Analog Boost for true vintage tonal characteristics

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*2 Soft Knobs, individually assignable per program

*Internal master clock that drives all arpeggiators, LFOs and delay times; automatic sync to external midi clock

*Advanced Modulation Matrix with 6 source and 9 destination slots.

*Complete control via MIDI (CC/Polypressure/Sysex) with "Adaptive Control Smoothing" for ultra soft parameter changes and no zippering.

*MIDI Tempo sync capabilities for virtually every time-based parameter

*Full 24-bit processing; 24 bit D/A, 18 bit A/D

*6 individual high quality outputs

*2 audio inputs to process your signals through synth filters, envelopes, FX, vocoder, FM, ring modulator, and more

*Flexible "auxiliary" model of internal audio routing for processing/reprocessing internal/external signals through the synth engine and and effects of other voices

*True Surround sound capabilities

*Free SoundDiver Virus editor/librarian for Windows? and MacOS?

*Easy operating system updates via MIDI

I can't top that!

Definitely one of my favourite sounding VA's.....very smooth and warm. It does not have the digital hardness that most VA's suffer from.

This synth REALLY excels at ambient sounds, synth strings, pads and dark electronica. Great onboard effects are part of the virus 'sound'

Hmmm....well Ive had a few problems. But I now have one which is totally fine. Common problems can include: Bad keys, lose knob, ram failure.

All new synths suffer from potential problems.......its just the luck of the draw :)

*The Virus is totally software driven. Sometimes when you make a OS upgrade...the Virus will act a bit weird for a bit i.e. notes cutting out. These issues tend to sort themselves out...hmmm.. weird!

Very helpful....and are VERY conscious of good customer relations.

Email responses are quick. However, should you need to send your Virus back...you may have to wait longer than the 2-3 week turnaround (In my case 6 weeks).

The Virus is a great synth; nicely built, professional instrument. There have been a few occasions when I wanted to sell my VKC......but the reality is....despite some of the Virus' shortcommings.....there isn't, in my mind, any real alternative on the market. When I bought the Virus, I wanted the VERY best......

Its easy to recommend this synth....but I guess alot of people wont be able to afford it (I saved up for 18 months). If you are in the market for only ONE synth....then you should seriously look into the Virus......

My current setup includes -

Virus KC
Korg Monopoly
DX7
TR909

Virus plays a very important roll in my music.

OS 6.5 (Build 351). This is the latest operating system and now includes an incredibly authentic minimoog emulated filter. Not only do u have the classic Virus filters....u now get the very best moog emulation aswell. I feel that this enhances the overall Virus sound excellantly.

The very best momey can buy. The latest OS 6.5 update is awesome. You now have 4 new filter types modelled on the minimoog.

Well I love the Virus sound and as far as VA synths go its the warmest/fattest on the market. The Virus is incredibly versatile....truly amazing polysynth. Use the Virus in conjunction with a decent analog mono and your in business. I really feel that the Virus excels at ambient sounds, pads and leads.

100% mint, 100% working, 100% FUN!!!!

The Virus has the best key action of anysynth and has the best build quality by far.

Excellant website. Fast response to emails and great OS updates. Access are the market leaders.

Totally reccommended. Very difficult to fault this synth.

Is as I got the synth. Got it last week. Havent updated the OS to one available for free download at access website. Nor have I added sound banks E-H. Which have to be loaded via either free online download at access website, or via the file with them on the soundiver cd that came with synth. Is OS version 5.5. Reason hasnt done the upgrades is only has webtv. No puter yet. So is reviewing product as it arrived, rather then with the extra free goodies added that need puter to do it.

Presets. If you cant find several that turn you on & which also sound great in the mix. You might as well give up on playing synth. Lol.

Editing & modifying patches is easy. Plenty of knobs & buttons to fiddle with. With lots of nice indicator leds too.

Manual is very goodon useing synths, creating voices ect. Can seem a little confusing at first cause is minus pics with labels for where on keyboard ect ect. But its not hard to figure out & find stuff. Only thing that was a bit dificult was finding info in manual about where to get banks d-h without doing it online. (Via sounddiver cd included).

The synth lends itself to figure it out for yourself, rather well.

Others have said enough on this. Thinks features of it are great.

This is a VA synth. While it can create very nice organish, electric pianoish, bells, flute type, & other assorted "real instruments", is orientation is to whatever evil or other pure synth sounds you want. LOL. Great leads, pads, fx, & atmospheric stuff. Reacts well to playing.

I do a variety from dark electronica & atmospheric & ambient, to death metalish type things. It works very well for these. Would also be excellent for lighter synth music & new age.

Nice effects section. The reverb is among the best I've heard from an effects proccessor.

Not as aggressive or metallic sounding as Nords imo, more aggressive sound then Novation imo. Pairs very well with my Novation KS4 for 2 pro VA synths rig. Especially well suited to any spooky atmoshphere or heavy electronica music. Is full of charector & organicness. Gives it a 9 cause "pristine" doesnt really fit. Whereas my Novation can be pristine to nasty raunchy evil. Though the latter in a somewhat diff flavor of that compared to the Virus.

Is a bit expensive too be haveing a backup one. Very close to twice the price of my Novation. Virus kc ran me just under $2,000. Anyway is a well made synth. No reason to doubt its reliability or gigability. A synth of this caliber does deserve a top of line stand like Apex or Apex plus. Not some budget stand.

Hasnt dealt with compnay directly. Just browses there website.

Would replace it if lost or stolen. Rending the theif to bloody shreds then celebrating his demise with a music peice played on replacement Virus. Lol.

Is very inspiring to music making.

Does wish Access preloaded sound banks E thru H at factory. Seems kinda silly that they didnt. A demo song isnt needed. And theres no instructions I can find on how to get demo song to play anyway. LOL. Gave it a 9 instead of a 10 cause of factory not preloading rest of sound banks. That where apparently available before they shipped unit to retailer I bought it from. Isnt a biggee really, but figures for the pricetag on it can dock em a point for not preloading all the sound banks at factory. Lol.

Is an attractive with a slighly sinister look to it, keyboard. Very nice in looks, playability & sound. To include the presets overall. While I havent heard the other 4 banks of sounds yet, I'm confident there great overall too.

I also play a Novation KS4 synth. Been playing synths for more then 20 years. Concidered Nord lead3, but decided on Virus instead based on sound demos of each at websites. Was a good decision for me imo.

OS 6

For people who are already familiar with subtractive synthesis, you will find the Virus intuitively laid out and easy to comprehend. You can make pro quality sounds without even needing to delve into the menues. As you spend more time with the Virus, you will become more confident/comfortable using the menue features (i.e assigning mod destinations, filter configerations, effects ect ect). The Virus is my first VA synth (Im an old analogue fart) and I must admit that when I opened the manual, It did cross my mind that maybe this synth would be too overly complicated. I put into manual mode and started making professional quality sounds almost immediately :) Im very happy. Anyone saying this synth is hard to use needs to re-evalute their inflated ability in sound design. If this synth was hard, I would say so.

Well no one can blame the people at Access for skimping on the manual. It is perhaps one of the most comprehensive Iv'e read, but an aweful lot does go over my head :). I think the manual is a valuable longterm resource, it basically tells you EVERYTHING about the Virus. But as far as bedtime reading goes, you may find it a little nightmerish! A massive 160+ pages of detailed info.

Both the Virus KB, KC and SuperNova II, KS5 have excellant keyaction. This sort of semi-weighted action feels very natural to me and makes playing on this synth a real pleasure. I am very tempted to use this as my main controller for the other synths. Great velocity/aftertouch response. 32 note poly on a synth like this is ok. I tend to use all 3 oscilators + some unison to get anywhere near the same kinda satisfying fatness as my old analogues (I have been spoiled it seems). This effectively brings the polyphony down to a more realistic 16 note, or even perhaps 8 note...for those power leads. Any less poly than 32, then I would probably have to sacrifice fatness (This is something im not prepared to do!). I particularly like the Virus reverb, Chorus and Phaser. Also the distortion/saturation is VERY nice. Not as keen on the delay. The 2 filters sound awesome and you can modulate them via lfo's, velocity etc etc, anything really! This synth makes the most incredible swirling pads, gritty leads and plinky sounds fx. My only gripe is that the resonance sounds weak (In comparison to my analogues). In my opinion, sounds which heavily rely on resonance will sound weak...forget making squelchy bubbles or powerful zapping noises...get yourself an analogue monosynth. Overall the midi is very extensive, litrally everything can be controlled.

Overall, this synth is very well specified.

The early VA's lacked their own identity (It seemed all they were designed to do was to emulate all that had gone before). Probably one of the reasons why the Virus is so highly sought after, is because not only can it emulate most old anlogues very well, it actually has a very strong sonic character of its own. It is the most distinct sounding modern synth you can buy. The Virus has a very nice sweet tone which at times (depending on your filter settings) just overflows with character. You can hear the Virus extensively on most post 1998 electronic music.

The Virus is capable of making incredible: Swirling pads (Thx to its 3 lfo's), sharp attacking leads, great 80's style leads, awesome electric piano's which have 'ting', futuristic/atmospheric soundscapes (perfect for ambient music or film soundtracks) and strong digital bass. I emphasize digital b'cos I prefer analogue bass. I will keep the Virus and use it whenever I need THAT Virus sound....if you all know what I mean. Be careful not to use the Virus for all your sounds though.

24 bit sound quality is exceptionally clear and detailed. The outputs give off zero noise. This synth does not contribute to any unwanted background noise. Interestingly, in all the reviews I have read only one guy has commented on the 'dull' characteristic in the Virus' sound. Yes this sonic characteristed DOES exist and I suppose it further makes the Virus unique. When I say 'dull' I dont mean 'boring' I mean that the overall tone of the Virus is inherently dark/moody. Thats why every loves making aggressive lead sounds on the Virus :)

Nice German piece of engineering. The knobs and buttons have a nice feel to them. The two 'softknobs' and the two buttons immediately to the right appear to take more of a beating than all the other controls. Lets just hope they last b'cos lets face it, we all want our Virus' to live at least 15-20 years.

Build quality is great (As far as modern mass produced equipment goes) but I doubt whether these kind of synths would survive a hard life out on the road. Old analogue poly's had far superior build quality (They had to b'cos the heavy analogue components needed a robust design) and really were built like tanks. Ive heard some people say the Virus Indigo is built like a tank! Sorry to burst everyones bubble...NO WAY!! Dont get me wrong, the Access, Waldorf and Clavia gear are all nicely built, but tanks they ain't. Drop an Indigo (at an angle) 5 feet onto a hard surface and tell me what happens :)

Keep your Access gear within a studio environment and It'll be fine. Gig with it and you may find yourself 'floating home sooner than you think'

The Access guys are very helpful and provide great OS updates, free pro-quality soundsets, analogue porgramming tutorials, live chat rooms and all the help/advice you are ever likely to need. Lets hope these guys stay around for many more years...they deserve it.

I doubt mine would ever get stolen b'cos im a hobby-ist use and dont gig. If the synth died on me because of some inherent fault (Like the Juno 106 6th note problem) then i may have to reconsider my options. However I would definitely miss the Virus tone. The Virus is a very nice/distinct sounding modern electronic instrument. I would recommend this synth to all keyboardists for use in ANY genre of music.

For those of you new to a Virus, dont expect to fully maximise the power of the Virus immediately. Give it time and you'll begin to realise just how sonically diverse/powerful this synth is.

I dont have the time to run through all the features, there are just so many. My favourites are: Key action, versatile oscilators, superb filters & excellant effects section.

The warmest digital synth I have ever used. In fact its warmer than some analogues. Incredible sounds. The oscilators are actually quite fat sounding. The filters are the best Ive heard on ANY synth and the effects section is pro quality.

Well built.

V. Good.

Well built and full of useful sound sculpting features. Very warm sounding.

Using OS 5.5 build 306 (English). Ive just unpacked this synth and it has WOW factor! Im just going through all the presets at the moment, alot of them will probably go cos im more into electropop than technopop, besides im a pro-programmer so I'll need the space :) Nice user interface, I cant forsee having any problems using this monster. The manual is very thorough but for some reason I just could not be arsed to read it.

32 note polyphony is great and as far as I can gather using 'Unison' doesnt eat up polyphony :). The record company pushes synths my way all the time and I must admit Ive not had time to explore all the features yet. Great on-board effects. Great key action, and most importantly a huge range of sound creation posibilities. This synth has got a very nice selection of analogue/spectral digital waveforms and 2 killer filters. Chances are youve already heard this synth in one way or another a 100 times already. Sorry I cant provide more info on features, chances are ill be getting a different synth to work with next month :(

Very distinctive Virus sound. Sweet sounding oscilators and 2 aggressive filters + 98 effects. The Virus has a distinct 'dull' tone, which alot of people like. From what Ive heard already, its perhaps the most instantly expressive digital synth ive ever come across. If it were upto me this synth would permantly stay in the studio. Very nice pads, bass, leads and fx.

Well its a new synth which comes with 6 month warranty :( We willl have to see about treliability. No props setting it up.

Excellant. They now even have online chat. You can chat in real time to the design team and ask questions, this is phenominal!

This synth has the word 'Classic' written all over it. I would recommend this synth to all those who love to program their own sounds, its so powerful.

Top marks 10/10.

no, as I say virus c is

actually before I buy each device is tested by my ears for sonic clarity and frequency harmonic time amplitude stability( definately )which unfortunately is hard to find since industry keeps customers for a stupid consumers which dont have ears or knowledge of what sonic quality actually is(digital technology strategy is damaging our ears).I own and testing a lot of gear(spending a lot money,no more, excuse me,enough for me.) , know pretty much about where industry is going wrong ,but its their own bussines of quantity (who cares about quality,they think).we are educated to compete in a life racing game.I tested virus c module and I have to say comparing to others it had enough energy to handle its duty ,pretty close to analog as digital can be.so since I perform a lot live I decided to buy virus KC ,but it was pure dissopointment with increased harmonic distortion and display I hate remind me on groveboxes MC 505 display and that machine is also screwing people for their money since sound quality is something that roland nowdays achieve only in dreams.I decided to return to virus c,and getting maybe virus b. Unfortunately I think about access engineering failed when I think about KC ,concerning virus b and c module engine,work is excellent.
sorry ,I dont pay for harmonic distortion.
by goran mrdja
- digital industries nightmare

OS 6 should be made available June 2003.....Further enhancing the Virus's interface with added arpegio patterns, more shortcuts + added features....this is very exciting. The majority of past user reviews seem to be pretty accurate.....it is open to very wide subjective opinion :)

Its taken me about 3 months to become comfortable with the user interface....well worth the time investment, b'cos I know appreciate just how f*&$ing good this synth really is. The KC comes with alot of interesting factory presets, some of which are very well engineered. Obviously, as time goes by and you start engineering your own, alot of these will be overwritten. Editing patches is easy and logical. The manual is over 120 pages and thorough!

I really like the keyboard action, modulation matrix, effects and those FILTERS.

I totally agree with past user reviews, in that the Virus sounds excellant. Overall the Virus is one of the warmest and fattest digital synth ever made. The Virus excels at doing beautiful silky pads, strong basses, classic (modern) leads, complicated fx & atmospheric soundscapes. Analogue emulation, for the most part, is very good. If you are a professional programmer, you wont have any problems making an insane range of great sounds. This synth is VERY expressive.

Ive had no problems with mine thus far....that does not mean to say I never will. All synths at some point have weird glitches :)

Support on the website is good. The OS updates are fantastic. Email support could be a little quicker.

At this price point, you have a number of options. The Waldorf Q, Nord 3 and the SuperNova II. Forget all the marketing hype and tryout all these synths and find the one which works best for you.

For me, I found the Waldorf Q to be too digital/cold sounding for my liking, however, I still think its a great, versatile sounding synth.

The Nord 3 has the best user interface of all modern synth and sounds great. Perhaps a little warmer than the Virus. However, it is not as sonically versatile as a Virus.

The Super Nova II also has a great user interface and sounds excellant. The Super Nova II came a VERY close 2nd to the Virus. Uses the same semi-weighted keyboard action as the Virus...but does not sound as distinct. An overly glassy, smooth sound were-as the Virus can sound like gritty shit stuck onto the pavement.

All of these aforementioned synthesizers are well built, sound superb and could be regarded as the 'big' synths of today. Whichever one you end up buying, im sure it will be a great asset to your setup.

Based on my preference for warm/authentic/fat/complicated sounds my ratings are:

The Virus KC 10/10
Super Nova II 9.5/10
Nord 3 9/10
Waldord Q 8.5/10

The Virus interface is fine. Future OS updates may include more shortcuts.....but that doesnt especially concern me. Considering how powerful this synth is, I find the Virus to be very easy to understand/use. Try it out and see whether you can work with it.

The manual is comprehensive and amusing at times hehe. The Germans have a funny use of English sometimes. Everything you need to know about the Virus and how it operates IS included in the manual. Access also include a large tutorial on how to create your own sounds.....and for the beginner/intermediate it makes for very interesting reading. Goodjob Access!

The factory presets are the best Ive heard from any synth and are perfect for those cool rainy day jamming sessions! There are alot of professional quality patches that you can download from the Access website. For those of you, like me, who enjoy programming your own sounds then the Virus will blow your mind. It really is a very professional, cool synth.

Well, the features for the Virus KC are well documented. Suffice to say, the key action is superb, the effects are superb and the build quality is amongst the finest/robust Ive come across.

Read the full list of features here: http://www.access-music.de/specifications.php4?product=viruskc

The Virus range of synthesizers all have that unmistakable tone. It is a truly great, massively versatile, fantastic sounding synth. The presets will keep you occupied for some time, by which time you will have figured out how to create your own, unique killer sounds.

The Virus is the only digital synth I choose to use and I think that says it all. My kit list includes all the classic ananlogue poly's and classic mono's.

Just remember, no synth is perfect....every synth should be played on its strengths. I really enjoy the Virus pads, leads and fx.

No problems yet. Should I have any issues ill re-post the problem here.

Fine.

With so many great syntheizers available on the market, the competition is fierce. Out of the Nord 3, SuperNova II and Waldorf Q I auditioned, I decided to go for the Virus purely b'cos it sounds so distinct. If you are looking for the 'sound' of todays pop/dance/trance/ambient music then this IS the synth you should be using. In 5yrs from now, the Virus may sound a little dated.....but in 10-15yrs time everyone will be wanting that retro Virus sound. Its all relative!

Using version 5.0, will upgrade today. Presets are standard fare for Virus line - I have the same on Virus A, had the same on Virus B. There are some deviations from regular stuff and the cool thing about new KC is the "soft knobs" - you have 2 knobs under LCD that have different function for each patch that you're using. I think that's a really cool feature.

Editing patches is a breathe. Here's an interesting fact: I originally bought Virus KC after 2 days I couldn't get anything decent out of it, so I sold it. Later, I decided to give Virus another shot and bought Virus B - expecting things to be different. Well, without opening a manual it still sounded flat and boring. Then I decided to crack open a manual and do a bit of reading. First of all, whatever these people tell you about synth manuals - they never read it. Period. I was a synth newbie and had no idea what terms like "envelope" "pot" "LFO" or "Oscilator" meant. This manual explained it to me. Without complex engineering diagrams like roland makes. Ever seen a Roland manual???? it would make an engineer weep. This manual rox!!!! it is definitely written with a novice in mind. You do need to know some basics like MIDI (how does it work, channels, parts, etc) - you don't need to know what a MIDI message like 0xAB933D3D means, just know what it does, how it does it and off you go. Furthermore, download tutorial from Virus website and go through it. Virus manual is definitely not a "bathroom reading material" If you're new to synth, unless you plan to drag your virus to the bathroom to try things out, I say sit down at the synth with the manual and in about 10 minutes that b!tch will screaaaaam!!!

Editing patches is a breathe. Twist, and go. the only thing I don't like is that menus are somewhat deep. So, some settings need to be investigated. However, using just surface controls (without diving into menus) you can still twist the heck out of the standard sounds and make this baby sing and quivver..... ;)

Polyphony is 32 voices but you knew that, right? You loose some voices if you start cranking up your oscilator use. But still respectable number. Besides, with filters and other tweaks you can do this baby gets PHAT sounds even on a 20 voice Virus A model, so you can imagine what KC does... Fecking awesome!

Ok, keyboard action is not my bag of chips. I come from Roland/Korg keys and in my opinion, Roland has the best key action around. I find Virus keys a bit spongy and springy at the same time. To quick to release. I also think that black keys a bit too narrow and sometimes, if you got elephant fingers like me, you either end up missing the key or finger slips. So, I control it from my Triton or XP 60.

Does it have effects???????? Are you BLOODY SERIOUS???? This synth can get on by just by looks alone and on top of it it's got something crazy like 90 different effects. I was looking at Clavia Nord Lead 3 which has no effects and blows in comparison on top of it has no effects. So, believe me - this black beauty has effects out of whaaazoo. hell, you can hit one note and just modulate it for hours, listening in awe. this is what it was meant to be, the ultimate effects and synth.

No expansion, duh, but you can leech bunch of patches from Access Virus site and various groups which are easily loaded in/out of your KC. I love the fact that I don't have to worry that my neighbor has more expansion cards than me and he has "vintage synth" and I only have "hip hop" expansion. C'mon - this baby has all the sounds that you need. Rick Wakeman said very smart thing - get a synth, delete all patches and just start playing - create your own, that's the only way to learn your synth's true capability. So believe me, I got plenty of sounds to mess with.

Aftertouch, all knobs send MIDI messages (waaaay cool stuff) and standard fare of MIDI galaxy galore. No on board sequencer but who needs it? I got Cubase SX and Triton Studio, what the heck do I need a sequencer for on Access Virus? It's like asking for four doors in Lamborghini Diablo. It's like asking a Porsche to build SUV. oh, wait.... :-O

Ok, this is the part where I quote an old Infiniti moto: "Own one and you'll understand"

No real instruments - but you wouldn't expect that in AV. If you need real, get a Kurtzweil or Roland workstation. Better yet, get yourself a nice concert piano. The sounds on this black beauty are great for all music that needs unreal sounds - Don't know about rock, don't listen to it but from what I read I think Linkin Park uses it plus bunch of other bands that use synths with guitars have it. It is mainly aimed at Electronic producer. Trance, Techno, Prog, Ambient, DnB, Hard House, House, etc. I took one sound, hit arpegio button and modulated it to hell (just twist the knobs baby) - listen to me, before you do it, hit REC on your sequencer and start recording audio. You now have crazy samples, loops, inserts to sprinkle all over your track. I can stamp out albums on this synth alone that would not be any less decent than what you hear in clubs.

Onboard effects are amazing... they are just "sweet and smooth like butta"...

Ok, not to sound too geeeky but this synth is like a fine woman. It begs to be understood. She won't give in to you if you just twist here, poke there. You got to spend some time getting to know her, feel her out, find out what makes her tick. She has moods - on some days she responds to your slightest touch and sometimes she won't even peep no matter how hard you try. The more time you give her the more she'll give you back. I am trully in love with this black beauty. Three access viruses and two model lines later I found my one true love. It has it all - brains, beauty, it is seeeeeexxxy. Even my wife who's totally unresponsive to my synths said "Wow, she's soooo pretty". Actually, my wife's pretty jealous coz' I've been spending more time twisting Virus' knobs than hers ;P.

Like I said - Access Virus is a girl. She's not just a girl, she's a sexy sexy bitch - which means that she not only wants some attention she wants you to be open minded and adventerous. Ok, I think I need a cold shower.... ROFL, just kidding. I'm just in love with this synth. I never cared for any peice of gear in my studio than i do about this one.

Velocity is good, keyboard action I wish was better. See my comments above. Overall, this section would get 15 on a scale of 1-10.

Never giged it, no plans to, built like a fortified concrete/steel
sh!thouse. Unless your gigs involve dropping synth from a 10-story building, I believe this synth would outlive me.

If I ever did gig it, I would buy another one, just in case this one got stolen or breathed on wrong way. I'd be too scared to part with her. Let's put it this way - if you're a live musician you can gig it in a 1/2 heartbeat, but it's like taking a Lamborhini on a road in a 2 foot snow with snow trucks spitting rock salt from all sides of the car. I would be to chicken-sh!t of getting a scratch on it to take it out. I am telling you, this thing is like an exotic car. you baby it.

Never dealt with virus and I had 3 different models so far. the website and forums provide all the info you need and if it ever needed service, I hear they are terrific.

If it was stolen, I'd take my gun and find the mofo who took it, I would empty my clip into his ass and after carefully wiping off blood from my baby take it back home where it belongs. If it ever got lost I'd forever stop doing whaterver drugs I was doing at the time when it was lost and go look for it. This synth is classic already - it is unmatched by anything else out there. I have Supernova II, Access Virus A, just sold Virus KB, Roland JD-800, Roland XP-60, Triton Studio and bunch of other stuff - this one is the prized item in my collection. It is my absolute favorite. I was looking at Roland V-Synth but it's a joke comparing to Virus. A toy, nothing more. I also spent some serious time with Clavia Nord Lead 3 and it didn't do anything for me. There is no contest. Access virus is the queen (remember, she's a girl) of all synths, unmatched. I would even go as far as to say that Access did succeed in making "virtual analog" more "analog" than anyone else. it has wormest sounds and beats Jupiter 8 in every category. You can make it sound like Jupe, if you put some time into it. This synth is an instant classic.

I love everything about it. The only thing I wish it had more keys and better keyboard action.

I am an amature with a lot of gear. I have been "mucking around" with synths for about 2 years now but played other musical instruments for about 10 years. (Don't laugh - accordion and guitar). Anyway, I don't know a single note and play it all "by ear" - managed to get through 4 years of musical school with "A's" without knowing Sulfedgio (music theory).

Virus is music - just hit a key and start twisting (and recording).

And by the way - you don't begin to appreciate the Virus until you realize what it is for. It's like getting a race car for daily commute in traffic. Don't buy a Virus if you plan to write classical music or rehearse Chopin - unless you plan to make a Ferry-Corsten-like remix of it. He's the only one who can get away with it.

I am as novice as it gets - I have no knowledge of musical theory, I don't have any vast experience with electronic gear. Just don't be scared, grab a manual and spend literally 15 minutes a day, practicing the technique they show you in the manual. In about 3 weeks you'll know it inside/out.

All major functions have a dedicated knob. But the power of this synth lies within the OS. Once you get used to the format of using menues in sound creation then its a doddle. Editing patches is easy and thorough. I like the manual....although I must admit I tend not to read them.

As you may already know this synth is bristling with high quality features. Its very subjective as to which features matter most but im very happy with their implimentation. The semi weighted keyboard is genuinely one of the best I have ever used on a synth, it is very responsive to my playing. 32 polyphony is ample for my applications. Built in effects of a high quality are also a bonus (Even if you choose not to use them there still useful to have). The real beauty about this synth is that not only is it very well engineered but as OS updates become available it will constantly bristle with new professional features! Very cool synth, in fact this is now my favourite studio piece.

When it comes to synths, the overall sound is what makes a synth great or just ok. For me, this synth has the most distinctive tone (The filters on this synth are just superb). The sound quality is incredibly detailed and you can litrally create any sound on this machine - it is just wonderful. I have created the most atmospheric lush/glossy pads you will ever hear. I have also created the most far out fx and the most electronic of bass lines. This is the most futuristic sounding synth I have yet to come across - It takes me on a journey into the future! I use this synth for what it excels at and for anything else I use a workstation. This synth can be used for any genre of music. If you need distinct, cool synth sounds then this is what you need.

I use this synth in a studio environment. It is certainly robust enough to gig with, in fact its one of the more solid synths out there. In the 6 months Ive had it ive experienced no problems. I think people who do are just unlucky.

knobs have a solid feel and should last a long time. Keys feel solid. Buttons will probably wear a little quicker than the knobs. The whole synth feels well built and is reasuringly heavy compared to others on the market.

I have not tried their customer support yet. I have heard from people that they are pretty good. I hope I never have to! but ill give them a mark of 9.

Overall this is a great sounding modern digital synth. It is fully featured, very well constructed (Both in terms of hardware and software) and is an absolute pleasure to play. It is very responsive to velocity and aftertouch and makes for a great controller keyboard when using softsynths. If I lost mine or it went wrong I would buy another because there is really nothing else like it in my opinion. Some people say that this synth will become a classic in years to come and there may be an eliment of truth in that. You can clearly hear the filters on this synth on 80% of pop music and 90% of electronic/dance/trance these days. Alot of musicians run drum loops and all sorts through it - utilising the filters and effects section it does sound sweet! Id have to say that these are a good collection of ingredients to have if you want to make a synth have a 'classic' status.

Fantastic synth. If you can affored it go and buy one.

*Manual is good and gets you going.
*The 132 page book on the Access website is really cool 'How to Program Analog Synths' It is specifically geared towards Virus users .....How cool is that. I dont see other manufacturers providing this kind of service.
*Once you become familiar with the OS menues its really quite easy.
*

*The number of features are just mind boggling. Just brilliant. I use it to control other synths and its wired up to practically everything you can think of. It sits very nicely above my Jupiter 8 and Prophet 5.

my JP8 and P% Care very special sounding synths.....they are very distinct. In my opinion the Virus is the most distinct sounding new synth made in the last 10 years. The Virus is capable of lovely ambient pads, cool FX, and solid digital bass. Personally I believe this is one of the most expressive digital synths Ive ever used. How does it compare to the P5 and JP8 you ask...well, the Virus is certainly different in every sonic respect. I think the Virus holds its own, just as the JP8 and P5 do.

I invested in a Virus because of its beautiful sonic capabilities. I also own the JP8 and P5....I think thats says it all really.

As is the case with all synths some users are going to experience problems with their Virus...that is to be expected. What is important to bear in mind is that the Virus gear is very well engineered. Everything on the Virus feels robust. I would say that the first thing to go wrong would be the buttons (In 20 yrs time that is!)

I would feel confident gigging with my Virus.

*Great website
*Regular OS updates - These updates massively enhance the Virus and add new features and paramaters, aswell as fixing known bugs.
*When you email them......they actually respond!

Overall I have only good words to speak about Access.

Most VA synths are really excellant now. But for me the Virus tops the lot. Its funny to think ill be using this in 20 yrs time....but I will!

OK this review is my genuine opinion and its quite bizare:

*The truth is I wish it was easier to use. I cannot be arsed to scroll through f*@?ing menues. At this price why the f*&$ should I have to waste time....time is money to a guy like me. Oh yeah, if your under pressure to finish a project, its not as if you can phone a freind and ask them to help you with some programming ...because they wont know what the f*&% to do with it.
*The KNobs and buttons across the surface are superficial.......what Access needs to do is cover the whole bloody synth in knobs and buttons.
*Midi works great
*Manual is shite
*My grandmother wanked all over it

I dont want any more f*&@ing effects ok. I need the oscilators to sound more powerful.

It would have been better if the keys lit up as you play them...cos i keep on forgetting what keys i just pressed down.

Polyphony would be great......this damn keyboard is mono and its f*&$ing hard to do chords when you can only press one key down at a time.

Taking into account this synth has 3 main oscilators and one sub etc etc it still sounds remarkably light. IM disapointed with the overall thickness......I wish it could be like my oberheim obx-a or Jupiter8...I guess virtual/digital stuff cant do it yet.

What the Virus kc does it does very well and and has a pleasent sound. The Virus can do everything.....but since getting it I seem to rely on my JP8 and OBxa more than ever.

F*&$ing loud bangs and higher octave distortion and pops and f*&%ing god knows what. Yeah you can tell this bitch is pure software....what f*&^ing bollocks is this.

As far as new synths go its probaly one of the best built but is absolutly f*&$ing bollocks campared to my JP8 and oberheim OBXA.

Access I lover the f*&$ers.

Overall its the probably the best synth in the world today and is genuinely very good.

I ordered a KB 2 years ago, and had to return it immediately because of constant LOUD clicking and chirping noise -dangerous to your ears over a PA.
I waited 2 f***ing months for a replacement -which did exactly the same thing.
I then again waited for God knows how long for a third replacement -which simply didn't make no sound at all.

Well, that became an immediate a money-back issue.

So -when the KC hit the market, I of course immediately asked my local dealer if he knew the KC to have similar problems. He replied in the affirmative, saying that his own model in the store sometimes had these kinds of hiccups and that he had an uneasy feeling everytime he sold a Virus. And the best thing: The manufacturer ALSO doesn't know WHAT the hell the problem actually is!

I wouldn't touch it anymore -which is sad because I liked the sound of it very much.

Currently using Os 5.0.

Presets sound excellant and inspire you to tweak them further. I would prefer less menue work and dedicated knobs for ALL parameters, as is the case on my Jupiter 8.

Excellant features for a modern day synth. It nearly has everything you need. Very good implimentation.

VERY distinctive sounding filters + effects. To my ears it still sounds a little digital....this is not a bad attribute. Capable at producing beautiful pads, lovely strings and basses etc etc. An excellant all rounder.

I've experienced no crashes or hangs on mine. It seems to have integrated itself nicely into my studio.

Very good after sales support.

As far as modern synths go, this is without a doubt the best.

Using software 5.0. I have to say that the presets are quite inspiring. Taking one's time to go through them really shows off the C's power and potential. I was surprised by some of the patches, going into the C thinking it couldn't do some things (like scream like a Lead2), and was pleasantly mistaken. Editing patches is pretty easy once you get a hang of it. I come from mostly Roland gear so the learning curve was a bit steeper than normal, but worth it. Since I use a laptop to sequence, I have the PDF of the manual, which is fairly thorough. There is some information you would think should be in a particular section, but is not, and it is sometimes boggling to find it elsewhere. However, I have never been one to use manuals anyway, and the tutorials are much more useful IMHO.

32 voice poly. Keyboard action is in a class of its own. Like I said, I come from Roland (and Ensoniq) gear, and the KC's keyboard is miracle in comparison. Although my old VFXsd was fun to play, it never felt as professional and responsive as the KC's. The virus has a useful number of effects, although while in multi mode verb/delay are global, which is pretty limiting. This is ok as I tend to lay tracks down dry anyways, and verb/delay them up later. Global verb/delay will give you enough wetness to to arrange and be creative. No expansion capabilities. It could do with a few more voices. Vel/aftertouch keys, which respond wonderfully. No sequencer, which is why I use a laptop. Sequences isn't missed very much (tho I hark back to the old VFX days sometimes...) I would give it a 10 but for having already experienced some note stealing.

Nothing realistic like a sampler, but that's not what I got the KC for. It does everything else extremely well. Pads are lush and organic, and leads are biting and dirty. Best genres are really anything you might want to spice up with electronic tones. Pretty much any modern music. I wouldn't say the C is limited to any genre - have yet to see Shania Twain do a Crystal Methodisque rendition of a country song... Oh but the sounds. When the C was on its way, I had a good idea of the kinds of power it could muster. Be forewarned tho, that no demo song of any kind will give you a real idea of how good this board sounds. I've been sequencing for over 6 years and I have never encountered a board so 'ready' to do what you want it to do. If you are familiar with German engineering, a good example would a BMW 328i. It just has a performance and feel to it that is oustanding, and difficult to put a finger on, but entirely unique to itself. You have to sit down with a good set of headphones and listen to the C yourself to really feel it. (AKA go test drive a 328i). Headphone socket a bit noisy, but o well.

Couple hangups and glitches. Panic button doesn't work. Not sure what's going on. This is after software update. I'm thinking of reloading the sq to see if that will fix the problem.

Not yet, but will.

Indespensible, unmatched. Compliments my setup very well.