VAZ Modular

Nobody else has reviewed this synth which doesn't surprise me as this is one of softsynth's best kept secrets. I created my first patch for this synth in November 2000 and have never looked back since.

I use many other softsynths, but this is still my favourite - it simply inspires and inspires. I have never had so many ideas using any other instrument (both hardware or software).

The first thing I like about VAZ is the filter that is simply gorgeous - especially the Type C 12db. Thanks to the 64bit rendering this sounds warm and then some.

Secondly I like the flexibility that is offered this being a modular synthesizer. Although it isn't as flexible as say Reaktor, you can still nonetheless coax a wide range of sounds from it. This may not be to everybody's liking as I know some that subscribe to the 'quick and ready' sounds brigade. I consider the presets of VAZ to be average. If you are prepared to roll your sleeves up and get dirty - it WILL reward. I am not saying that you will get 'in the zone' every time, but more often than not you will. I have created some 150 sounds for the VAZ now and all of them using the waveforms supplied.

What prompted this review was news of the latest version 2.5. VAZ has long seemed like a stray wandering the streets looking for a home. I am so glad that it is now to join in the VSTi party. This I am sure will appeal to many. It will improve my workflow instead of having to trigger using Hubi's loopback from Cubase. This is so refreshing after Fruity Loops followed the same path.

VAZ isn't perfect (is anything?). There could be improvements and I am a bit disappointed that new osc waveform types weren't included in the new release. It could also use some cosmetic improvements like its little brother VAZ 2010.

This is however one cool instrument that I could never live without. This is my first review so I hope that I have done Vaz Modular justice. I am running out of characters so cu...

Regards
Steve Thornhill