…returning to a hardware synth: Questions about the TI2

[Blackbelt Jones]

I was an owner of an original Virus "A" tabletop many years ago (and prior to that, I bought one of the first Nord Leads to hit the US). I eventually went to an all software + controllers setup which has served me quite well. However, this latest version of the Virus TI me looking @ a dedicated hardware synth for the first time in literally years. I think the VST integration is incredibly forward thinking but I do have a few questions about how it actually performs in the field.

First, my setup: Vista 64 Bit / Cubase 5 32 Bit / Quad 2.66 Proc / 8GB RAM / EMU 1820m PCI + Breakout Box

1) I have become so used to not having multitimbral limitations in software by simply running multiple instances of a plug-in. Obviously, you can only run one version of the TI2. What features will I "lose" by running the TI2 as a multitimbral instrument? I assume patches drop effects? Something else?

2) For convenience sake, it might be nice to occasionally use the TI2 as a sound card. However, I would ultimately record via the analog outs. I assume having the unit plugged in via USB AND running the audio out via @ that same time will not be an issue? I assume not, but I’d love to know if any “gotchas” exist.

3) I have seen some grumblings about the TI2's VST incarnation. Other than the complaints about audio quality (which I presume has to do w/ the lower bit depth of the USB?), are there any other issues to be aware of? Based on my setup above, any reason to suspect it will perform poorly?

Thank you all for your time. I always figured if I were to ever buy another synth, it would be a Virus.

Cheers from Chicago,

BBJ