Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $674
Standard/Professional
$249
$700+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
Dive into a world of endless sonic possibilities with the Access Virus B, a powerhouse in the realm of tabletop synthesizers. Known for its versatile sound engine, the Virus B seamlessly blends analog warmth with digital precision, making it a go-to choice for DJs and producers looking to elevate their soundscapes. Whether you're crafting lush pads, gritty bass lines, or intricate leads, this synth is equipped to handle it all.
The Virus B stands out with its 24-voice polyphony, allowing you to layer sounds without compromising on richness or depth. Its intuitive interface encourages creativity, with easily accessible knobs and controls that put sound design right at your fingertips. The robust modulation matrix offers unparalleled flexibility, letting you shape tones to your heart's content. With an array of built-in effects, including reverb, delay, and chorus, you can effortlessly add depth and texture to your tracks.
Designed for both live performances and studio sessions, the Access Virus B provides a reliable and dynamic tool for any musician's arsenal. Its compatibility with various MIDI setups ensures seamless integration, making it an ideal choice for those who demand both innovation and reliability from their gear.
Key Features:
- 24-voice polyphony for complex layering
- Intuitive interface with hands-on controls
- Extensive modulation matrix for versatile sound shaping
- Built-in effects: reverb, delay, chorus, and more
- Seamless MIDI integration for versatile performance setups
Product specs
| Brand | Access |
| Model | Virus B Desktop Digital Synthesizer |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2000s |
| Categories | Desktop Synths, Digital Synthesizers |
| Analog / Digital | Digital |
| MIDI I/O | MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through |
| Polyphony | 24 Voices |
FAQs
-
Is the Access Virus B synthesizer polyphonic?
-
Yes, the Access Virus B is a polyphonic synthesizer with 24 voices, allowing for complex and layered sound design.
-
What type of synthesis does the Access Virus B use?
-
The Access Virus B utilizes digital synthesis to produce a wide range of sounds, offering flexibility for various musical styles and applications.
-
How does the Access Virus B integrate with other MIDI equipment?
-
The Access Virus B features MIDI Input, Output, and Through, making it easy to integrate with other MIDI-compatible gear for expanded control and performance options.
-
What are the standout features of the Access Virus B's sound engine?
-
The Access Virus B's sound engine is known for its rich, versatile sound palette, capable of creating everything from lush pads to aggressive leads, making it a favorite among electronic musicians.
-
Is the Access Virus B suitable for live performances?
-
Yes, the Access Virus B is well-suited for live performances, thanks to its robust build, intuitive interface, and extensive sound-shaping capabilities.
Videos
TausendAugen
Access Virus B - Sounddemo Bank H: 0-127
Reviews
PROS
-
24 voices and Multi-Timbral, offering extensive usability
-
Exceptional filters enhance sound quality
-
Minimal menu diving; most controls accessible via knobs
-
Wide selection of waveforms for oscillators and LFOs
-
Analog modeling provides a distinctive Virus sound
-
Versatile, capable of producing a broad range of sounds
-
Dual filters add significant expression to patches
-
Can replicate sounds of many other synths due to its architecture
CONS
-
Voltage regulation issues due to faulty capacitors
-
Original power supply is crucial for optimal performance
-
Audio upgrade recommended for enhancing signal-to-noise ratio
-
Some find its character too focused on trance and supersaw leads
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Access Virus B.
Features and functionality
-
The Virus B offers knob-per-function control for basic sound design, but deeper functions require extensive menu navigation, which can be cumbersome during live performances.
Source -
The Virus B's multi-mode allows layering two to four patches, enhancing sound design complexity without additional equipment.
Source
Use cases and applications
-
Users find the Virus B suitable for creating sound design templates beforehand to minimize menu diving during live improvisational performances.
Source -
Owners suggest using a MIDI controller like the BCR-2000 to overcome the menu-heavy interface for live control of parameters.
Source -
Virus B can effectively recreate trance leads using presets from the C, as confirmed by owners, despite some differences in sound quality.
Source
Comparisons
-
The Virus B is contrasted with the Elektron Digitone, highlighting its simpler operation without the complexities of sequencing and FM synthesis.
Source -
The Virus B is contrasted with the Alesis Ion, which offers a more visually intuitive interface for those who dislike menu diving.
Source -
The Virus C offers supersaw-like trance leads, not found in the Virus B, which lacks Hypersaw and wavetable synthesis, appealing to those focused on these sound types.
Source
Software and compatibility
Value and pricing
-
Some users argue that modern softsynths can rival or surpass the Virus B’s sound for EDM, suggesting the emulation as a cost-effective option.
Source
Setup and maintenance
User experience
-
Users have noted the Virus B's menus are context-specific, showing only relevant parameters when editing, which eases navigation compared to endless scrolling systems.
Source -
The visual aesthetic of the Virus KB, with its distinctive red accents and wood finish, significantly enhances user inspiration and enjoyment.
Source
4.5 out of 5
Based on 4 Reviews and 30 Ratings
236
versatile polysynth
For virtual analog modeling, I like this the best. Better than the Ultranova and Blofeld. The dual filters add incredible expression to patches. Can be programmed to replicate many other synths because the architecture (3 oscillator) is so flexible. Decent FM capabilities, too.
Here is a track made only with the Virus B
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mQv5KYiLWf0
1264
Good for trance pads and super duper saw leads
I sold it and don't regret it. It did have it's uses, and sometimes I wish I had it again, then I remember the trance pads and supersaw leads and why I didn't love it. Maybe it would be good if I wiped out the entire patch memory and started from scratch. The effects were great.
If I were a trance producer I would love it.
Artist usage
Add artist
According to this article, Hans Zimmer utilizes an Access Virus B in his studio.
The Access Virus B Synth can be spotted mounted in a rack in Headhunterz' studio.
An Access Virus B is seen in the "Bomb Shelter" in this photo The Crystal Method tweeted.
Klaus Schulze is listed as using the Access Virus B Synthesizer on his official instruments page.
"This is a hardware synth which was made in 1999 with a 24 note polyphony and amazing oscillators, from 2 to 3 per voice. I use this mainly for the creation of lead sounds and occasionally for atmospheric pad sounds. This synth is essential because it never really creates the same sound twice so you are always creating something new."
At 1:38, 12th Planet says he owns a Access Virus B Synthesizer. "It's from the days when I was producing Drum and Bass."
In the MusicRadar article, photos show Basement Jaxx's Simon Ratcliffe using the Access Virus B Synthesizer, highlighting its role in their music production.
"Sometimes I record something from the Virus or my old JP-8000, but I always add samples digitally using Ableton"
It is seen that it is the Virus B in his Electronic Beats TV Interview at 0:38.
In an interview with Reckorder, Tipper mentioned that the Access Virus B Synthesizer is one of his most frequently used synthesizers.
Album Usage
The Access Virus B has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Access Virus B, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
Show yoursMore Access Tabletop Synthesizers
Accessories & Related Items
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Tabletop Synthesizers
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
equipboardGear IQ 4934
-