VAZ Modular

Vaz Modular takes a different approach to building a patch than the other modular synthesizers. This package is focused on building modular synthesizer patches and nothing else. The process of building your synth is much easier than Reaktor or Tassman, but not quite as eloquent as the editor for Nord Modular. You insert different components onto the screen and arrange them to form the layout you want. Patching the components together is a little backward to me. You do not use patch chords. Instead you start with the component that you want to receive control, then choose a component that will be the source. Example: Click on the filter amount and select from a list of possible controllers; various ADSR’s, LFO’s, etc.. Several components can effect a single target, and a single component such as an ADSR can be directed to several destinations. Once you are comfortable with this method the flexibility is very nice.

With either the Vaz Modular, Vaz 2010, or Vaz Plus the sound is distinctively VAZ. I have owned some of the old Arp analog synthesizers and Vaz is the closest thing I have found to that sound and feel. It does not carefully emulate a single Arp with all the little peculiarities as does the Oddity. Instead it gives you that well known Arp sound. Gritty with lots of harmonics and the eg’s have a lot of snap.

Because of the strong, gritty, distinctive sound Vaz can be a bit difficult for some to use. It is too easy to create patches of pads that take over a mix. With care and control this synth can be a “must have” for trance sounds. I prefer to use it for art patterns and bass sounds. The arps can cut through a mix without needing a lot of volume. With a bit of control to vary filter settings it is very hard to distinguish the Vaz from a real analog sequencer. The sound effects that can be created by Vaz are unmatched by other VSTi’s.

This synth is very stable and quite decent for CPU usage. It comes with a manual that describes all of the modules but so much more could be done with the documentation. It is one thing to tell what a slew limiter does. But I think missed a good opportunity by not going deeper and telling you how and why you want to use a slew limiter. 255 different modules will give you a lot of flexibility, and fun. Version 2.5 also works as a VSTi or DXi, meaning you no longer need a loop back device to run it inside a sequencer.

I still remember when I was testing Vaz Modular after downloading the demo. A patch that had several arp’s going in the included sequencer actually made me say “Wow!” I knew I had to buy it, and this is the strong point. In my view nothing does arpeggios as well as Vaz. If you do trance or want to fake a real old style analog sequencer this is a must have.

By the way, the picture on this page is just the sequencer. Go to the web site to see the real Vaz Modular.

RobertRead Review