Virus Synthesizer Comes to TC PowerCore
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Easy Page
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Oscillator Page
(Click for a close-up) |
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Filter Page
(Click for a close-up) |
February 3, 2004
Access Music has announced the Virus PowerCore, a virtual version of the Virus synthesizer for the TC Electronic PowerCore PCI and PowerCore FireWire DSP unit.
With its 16 voices and three oscillators, two parallel multimode filters and extensive modulation matrix, the Virus PowerCore is more than just another virtual analog synth. Just the effects section itself would justify this plug-in to be called a multi-effect processor. Virus PowerCore can be used as a VST Instrument for Windows or MacOS X as well as an Audio Unit. The actual synth engine runs on one of the DSPs of the TC PowerCore and therefore doesn't put any strain on your host CPU.
About the Sound Engine
The Virus features three oscillators plus sub-oscillator, three LFOs, 2 multi stage envelopes, tons of parallel effects and a sophisticated modulation. Every feasible parameter can be sync'ed to an incoming clock and even the FX parameters can be adjusted in realtime.
For those who prefer to use the 4000+ free pre-programmed sounds from the Access website, there is good news as well:
About the Patch Management
The patch management system gives you total control over thousands of patches organised in an automatically created hierarchical menu. The file format is the same Standard MIDI File used by the hardware viruses. "Recently used Items", "Favorite Items" and "Patch Categories" make browsing huge libraries a truly enjoyable experience.
About the Easy Page
Nowadays where the typical computer musician has to deal with dozens of applications and interfaces it becomes increasingly hard to remember where a certain parameter is located. One way out is Access' "Easy Page" concept which consolidates the most important parameters on one page and allows the musician to focus again.
Licensing Details
Along with the Virus PowerCore, Access also presents a new and innovative software-licensing scheme.
The Base Package offers a licence which enables up to four plug-in instances utilizing one DSP (16 voice, 4 instances).
A Multi DSP License can be obtained on top of the Base Package which allows the Virus to be instanced on all PowerCore DSPs simultaneously. With one PowerCore PCI, you'll get 64 voices and 16 instances - with 4 PowerCores you'll enjoy a 256 voice, 64 instances Virtual analog monster.
Pricing and Availability
The Virus PowerCore will be available in March 2004 through TC Electronic Dealers worldwide (EUR 399,00 suggest retail). The Multi DSP Licence will be available in Q2/2004, please contact Access Music for pricing.
For more information, visit their web site at www.access-music.de. | 
