Ok first impressions.
I normally don't care for product managers since there are just so many of them but the ReFx Cloud app made installing the plugin and the 18 preset banks a breeze. One click, wait a minute and done.
Just make sure you set any custom paths in the cloud app (using the gear icon) before installing or it will pick defaults. The installer did not read the VST plugin location in the registry (Win 10).
As to the sound of the synth itself it's as aggressive as I remember V1 being. Like I said earlier it's not going to make any type of sound you haven't heard somewhere before in other synths but it does have its own unique character and that's very important to anyone with a folder full of other synths. I would liken its core sound more to Spire than say Hive 2.
But as with any synth that has a well defined character there are going to be those who like that character and those who do not.
So in this case I really have to recommend trying the demo (if there is one at some point) before deciding to purchase, especially if one has never heard Vanguard 1.
I like V2's character but it will be a say top 20 synth in my folder rather than a top 5. It will certainly get some work if I need a sound with that particular flavor.
Programming patches is easy but somewhat limited. I don't like the gui color since I'm not a fan of green but the overall gui is adequate. Easy to read, easy to navigate, and fully resizable. Someone said it can be skinned but I haven't been able to find a skin folder yet.
Even if it's a new purchase at $79 (they do charge tax), when you consider it comes with 2400 presets and buying that many presets would certainly cost you near that I think it's a good deal. If you really like the sound then it becomes a great deal. Those who own V1 and haven't had it installed since 32 bit went out of fashion will get a nice shot of nostalgia.
But again it comes down to whether an individual likes the core sound of Vanguard or not. Hopefully they'll drop a demo version soon so everyone can decide for themselves.
