noob question : software-based vs. Virus TI
 

Hi,

this is probably a dumb question, but i'm going to ask it anyway... What are the advantages/disadvantages of a mac with software like reaktor and a midi controller versus using a Virus Ti? It's for live use and for weird effects (think of devine's aleamapper sound or the atomizer stuff), rather than making dance music at home or something.

thanks!!!

koenraad

Reaktor is a very different animal than a Virus TI. The Virus can't sequence music or drums on it's own. You'll need a separate MIDI software sequencer or hardware sequencer for the Virus. Reaktor is also more versatile than the Virus because it's an open programming platform. This means you can actually design your own synths, drum machines, sequencers and effects. These are called Ensembles in Reaktor terminology. The are many of them available from NI and from individual users (many of them are free to download if you own Reaktor).

The Virus however will not strain the CPU on your computer. NI software is notorious for using rather large amounts of processing power, so if you want to get serious with Reaktor you'll need a newer/fast machine with lots of RAM.

In terms of pure sound quality, Reaktor is top notch, but I think the Virus edges it out IMO. Sounds more full and polished. As far as drum sounds, pure flexibility and freakiness goes, there's no contest. Reaktor reigns supreme. The biggest problem I have working with Reaktor is it's almost too capable. There's so much you can do with it, I feel like I've got ADD sometimes. Hard to keep focused when there's nearly as many parameters in a single Reaktor Ensemble as there are in Virus Control.

I'm fortunate enough to own both and I think they compliment each other quite well, but it's a hard comparison because they're so very different. I also haven't owned my Virus as long as Reaktor, so maybe the Virus has more to offer in terms of flexibility than I've experienced so far.

thanks!

all the best,

koenraad

Well stated! I would have to agree the whole way! The thing with the virus is your paying for the sound! Access puts a lot time into the design of the there Oscillators, Effects, and most certainly there filters. I own nearly every plug in on the market and unless you have the money to purchase all TDM and RTAS plug ins or you are some super nerd that has a whole lot of time on your hands you will never be able to achieve the sounds "BASS" that a virus can produce! Z3ta, Massive, Reaktor, and discoDsp are really impressive vst's in my opinion. If you go the software route i would recommend adding them to your collection. Still there is nothing like sitting down at your desktop and watching all the blinking lights on the Virus! Thats worth the money for me!