Zebra VCF vs XMF?

[Echoes in the Attic]

For filters in Zebra, I tend to just turn to the XMF, in case I decide I want FM on it or dual filter within the one module. It seems to me like the XMF filters can do everything the VCF filters can do and much more. So I'm just curious why use the VCF's at all? (Besides if you need more than two filters of course). I do still noticed many patches using the VCF filters, but I always think we not have an XMF there for more flexibility? Any reason besides lighter cpu?

Speaking of the filters, I've recently decided to sell my Korg legacy plug-ins (trying to reduce plug-in count) but I do love the MS-20 for really quick screaming filter noises. I know Zebra can do this pretty well to thanks to it's XMF filters, though I haven't tended to use it for this kind of sound in the past. What settings would you say most closely mimics the MS-20 filter sound? Obviously a low pass and then high pass filter in series, but is there a mode and overdrive amount most reminiscent of the MS-20? (I'm guessing 'analogue' in XMF with a little overdrive?)

cheers

[Sendy]

They sound different. For example the default VCF uses a frequency exciter at the resonance point for a really unique filter sound. Some people prefer the sound of the VCF to the XMF, apparently the XMF sounds more like ACE, if I remember correctly.

[bmrzycki]

Some filter modes are only available with VCF modules such as EQ peaking, SR Decimate, and Phasing. And as Sendy said each filter mode has a different drive parameter which colors the sound differently. Howard does a great job of giving you an overview of the VCF types in his beta manual, describing the drive modes and sound coloration.

As for replicating the MS-20, I've never used a real one or the VST so I can't speak to the filter. I would probably use the XMF too in an attempt to emulate it.

[Howard]

...and the XMF eats more CPU than the VCF.

[pdxindy]

Some of the VCF filter types sound different from the XMF... so in some cases I prefer the VCF and in some cases I prefer the XMF... very glad to have both!