If you want the best VST-based Commodore 64 synth, QuadraSID is the prime choice. There is one feature in QuadraSID that I don't think gets enough mention, but is a major contributing factor of that VGM sound-- the wavetable. In capable hands, this feature alone gives the user the ability to crank out all manner of classic C=64 drums, sound effects, high speed arrpegios and true VGM leads/basses. There are two soundsets out there that really make this apparent-- Torben "Metal" Hansen's soundbank at Pro-Sounds and my own, soon to be released set at ReFx (Bryan Lee Signature soundset-- shameless self promotion, I know lol. Anyhow...). The sonic character in QuadraSID is very, very unigue as well. By turning on two waveforms in the waveform selection area, you get an absolutely gritty, dirty, digital and metallic pulswave that can be modulated via LFOs or envelopes. It does not sound like any typical VA pulsewave at all. You also get real galaway noise in this puppy. For those not familiar with that, let's just say it sounds nothing like your standard VA white, pink and brown noise. QuadraSID is marketed as being a chiptune synth but its possible applications extend far beyond that :). In unison mode, you can dial in fat Trance leads and basses that are nothing like what you would get out of a typical VA. Creative use of the wavetable and multi-envelopes aid in molding unique special effects fitting for film and video game production. Minimal techno artists might find QuadraSID useful as well.Read Review
