Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $1,813

High-end/Boutique

$500

$1501+

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Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The Access Virus TI Polar synthesizer is a paradigm-shifting instrument that seamlessly bridges the gap between analog warmth and digital precision. At the heart of this powerhouse is the Dual-DSP Core, delivering unmatched performance with ultra-low latency, ensuring that every note you play is as crisp and responsive as your creativity demands. Featuring a WaveTable Oscillator, this synth opens a new world of sonic possibilities, perfect for crafting intricate soundscapes or punchy, rhythmic sequences.

Designed for both studio and stage, the Virus TI Polar is not just an instrument but a complete music creation system. Its Total Integration technology allows it to function as a flawless VST/AU plugin, offering a seamless two-way audio and MIDI connection with your DAW. This means you'll experience sample-accurate timing and delay-compensated audio, elevating your music production workflow to new heights.

The Virus TI Polar is equipped with 37 velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch, making it a tactile delight for performers who demand expressiveness in their music. Its onboard arsenal includes a programmable arpeggiator, dual multi-mode filters, and an array of 129 parallel effects, from lush reverb and delay to phasers and ring modulators. Moreover, the Remote Mode transforms this synth into a universal MIDI controller, giving you hands-on control over virtually any MIDI-capable device or software.

Whether you're delving into lush pads or gritty bass lines, the Virus TI Polar's expansive modulation capabilities and extensive memory ensure you have everything you need at your fingertips.

Key Features:

  • Dual-DSP Core for high performance with low latency
  • WaveTable Oscillator for a diverse sonic palette
  • Total Integration with VST/AU plugin functionality
  • 37 velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch
  • Programmable arpeggiator and dual multi-mode filters
  • 129 parallel effects including reverb, delay, and more
  • Remote Mode for MIDI control of external devices
  • Extensive memory: 512 RAM and 2048 ROM patches, fully rewritable

Product specs

Brand Access
Model Virus TI Polar 37-Key Digital Synthesizer
Finish White
Year 2000s
Categories Digital Synthesizers, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital Digital
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Number of Keys 37 Keys
Polyphony 110 Voices

FAQs

How many voices of polyphony does the Access Virus TI Polar support?

The Access Virus TI Polar supports up to 110 voices of polyphony, allowing for complex and layered sound design.

Does the Access Virus TI Polar offer both analog and digital sound capabilities?

The Access Virus TI Polar is a digital synthesizer, known for its powerful virtual analog sound engine and digital wavetable oscillators.

How does the Access Virus TI Polar integrate with a DAW for music production?

The Access Virus TI Polar features sample-accurate timing and delay-compensated connection, making it highly compatible with DAWs for seamless music production.

What type of keyboard action does the Access Virus TI Polar have?

The Access Virus TI Polar has a synth action keyboard, providing a responsive and smooth playing experience ideal for synthesizer performance.

Can the Access Virus TI Polar be used as an effects unit?

Yes, the Access Virus TI Polar can function as an effects unit, offering a range of built-in effects to enhance your sound design and live performances.

tritonrecordings

tritonrecordings

Synth Stuff Ep. 47 - Access Virus TI Polar

Video thumbnail for Synth Stuff Ep. 47 - Access Virus TI Polar by tritonrecordings

Synth Stuff Ep. 47 - Access Virus TI Polar

tritonrecordings

tritonrecordings

Video thumbnail for Access Virus TI Polar Demo by Panu M Savolainen

Access Virus TI Polar Demo

Panu M Savolainen

Panu M Savolainen

Video thumbnail for Access Virus TI Polar DarkStar Part.1 | No Talking | by DKS SYNTH LAB

Access Virus TI Polar DarkStar Part.1 | No Talking |

DKS SYNTH LAB

DKS SYNTH LAB

Video thumbnail for Ambient Explorations pt.24 (Access Virus TI Polar) by Piotr Garbaczonek

Ambient Explorations pt.24 (Access Virus TI Polar)

Piotr Garbaczonek

Piotr Garbaczonek

Reviews

PROS

  • Timeless sounds unmatched by other synths

  • Intuitive use with a clear, punchy sound output

  • Total integration with DAW via USB for direct audio transmission

  • Deep programming with thousands of patches available

  • Multi Mode allows stacking sounds for complex output

  • Reliable across a range of music styles and performances

  • Mentioned and used by notable artists like Fedde Le Grand, Hardwell

CONS

  • Lack of updated drivers for current Windows or OS X operating systems

  • Some units have issues with keys not working

  • Reported USB bugs affecting performance

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Access Virus TI Polar.

Features and functionality

  • The Virus TI2 Polar can perform wavetable and granular synthesis, requiring a laptop for detailed mapping due to the small screen.

    Source
  • Creating custom arpeggiators is possible by connecting the Virus TI Polar to a computer, allowing unique patterns to be saved and used without further PC connection.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Owners experience frustration with USB "Total Integration," but modern alternatives like Aura Plugins offer improved functionality and USB audio on newer Mac OS versions.

    Source

User experience

  • The keyboard on the Virus TI2 Polar is highly praised for its feel, adding a musical touch that some users find lacking in other synths.

    Source
  • Users enjoy the ability to quickly plug in the USB to create or modify arpeggiators, then disconnect and continue using custom settings in standalone mode.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Virus TI2's multitimbrality is a standout feature, especially valued in live PA setups for its unique sound capabilities.

    Source
  • The Virus TI Polar, when connected to an audio interface with 6 inputs, effectively acts as three distinct synths in a studio setup.

    Source

Other

  • Some users report issues with jitter when sending rapid arp sequences, particularly with longer amp releases, suggesting possible unit-specific faults.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Despite using popular plugins like Serum, some owners still prefer the distinctive sound quality of the Virus TI Polar.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Selling prices for the Virus TI Polar can exceed £950, indicating its retained value and desirability among synth enthusiasts.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 7 Reviews and 23 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
fathand

So deep you can make new sounds for ever

I have had this synth for approaching ten years now and it finds new locations within my set up as I changes styles and approaches to writing and performing. Very deep programming that you can take as far as you want or get inspired by the thousands of patches designed by some masterful sound designers. It is well worth checking out.

At the moment I am using the Octatrack midi sequencer to control the Polar in my live performances. These two instruments alone are a very powerful combination.

carlbnl

Amazing workhorse synth.

One of the most reliable all-round synths available

djtimwaters

worth every penny: an incredible synth investment

what can i say. nothing that hasn't already been said. get one. worth every penny. this synth is so freaking good i'd pay more money for it. 3k is almost a bargain. thats how freakin good it is. :p

dgerbs

Love this synth

I've had the A & B keyboards...sold both & now have the Polar. My main synth and I love it.

From Gear Setup
grancalavera

Sleek and sinister

Nothing else needs to be added that hasn't already been said about this beauty.

sunchase

this is a beast

beast. hate usb bugs tho

jimslaton

USED BY ALL PRO STUDIOS

Fedde Le Grand, Hardwell, etc

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Tommy Lee uses Access Virus TI Polar

Tommy Lee

Drummer

Mötley Crüe

...
Verified via Photo

During an interview with legendary engineer Warren Huart, this synthesizer was positively identified at 44min 15secs by the artist's studio engineer as the Access Virus TI. The specific version is the TI1 Polar White with keyboard.

See how 12th Planet uses Access Virus TI Polar

12th Planet

Music Producer

Evol Intent & Infiltrata

...
Verified via YouTube

At 1:20 in this video, it can be clearly seen that 12th Planet has an Access Virus TI Polar synth

See how Andy Fletcher uses Access Virus TI Polar

Andy Fletcher

Keyboardist

Depeche Mode

...
Verified via YouTube

Ben Adams, keyboard tech for Depeche Mode during their 2013 Delta Machine Tour, talks about some of the keyboards and synths used by the band live on stage. Starting at 0:21, he talks about Andy Fletcher’s Access Virus TI Polar: “So here we are on stage left, Andrew Fletcher’s position. He has two controller keyboards that are linked to my racks there, but most importantly… you have the Virus Indigo. The smaller version, the Ti. Used quite predominantly throughout the show. Most importantly, we generate the baseline for Just Can’t Get Enough which is pretty important!”

See how Gui Boratto uses Access Virus TI Polar

Gui Boratto

Music Producer

...
Verified via Attack Magazine

There is a Virus TI Polar top right on the shelf.

See how Harry Gregson-Williams uses Access Virus TI Polar

Harry Gregson-Williams

Composer, Music Producer

Kind Heaven Orchestra

...
Verified via YouTube

At 07:55, a TI polar can be seen on the shelf.

See how Thomas Dolby uses Access Virus TI Polar

Thomas Dolby

Singer, Keyboardist

Bruce Woolley & The Camera Club

...
Verified via ProSoundNetwork.com

Logic acts as his MIDI host for the three keyboard controllers (CME Pro 7, Novation ReMote SL25, and a Virus TI Polar, which is the only sound source) and a variety of plug-ins, both built-in ones and others such as Stylus-RMX; Arturia's MiniMoog; RMIV drums; Slayer2 guitars; UltraFocus; Camelspace gating effect and T-racks mastering.

See how Coone uses Access Virus TI Polar

Coone

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post, Coone is shown using the Access Virus TI Polar synthesizer.

See how Madonna uses Access Virus TI Polar

Madonna

Singer

Breakfast Club

...
Verified via YouTube

During Madonna's Confessions Tour, she uses the Access Virus TI Polar synthesizer, as seen in the YouTube video by M Videos2.

See how Laurie Anderson uses Access Virus TI Polar

Laurie Anderson

Singer, Keyboardist

We Are Family Collective

...
Verified via Photo

Seen in this picture of Laurie Anderson's home studio is an Access Virus TI Polar. Photo taken by Derek Peck in Laurie Anderson studio circa 2010.

https://www.anothermag.com/art-photography/331/laurie-anderson

See how Stuart Price uses Access Virus TI Polar

Stuart Price

Music Producer

The Killers

...
Verified via Soundonsound

In this picture of his studio, you can see an Access Virus TI Polar on the left side of the screen

See how Jeff Frankenstein uses Access Virus TI Polar

Jeff Frankenstein

Singer, Keyboardist

Newsboys

...
Verified via Twitter

During the Born Again VIP Experience Tour on May 17, 2011, at the Civic Auditorium in Idaho Falls, Jeff Frankenstein used the Access Virus TI Polar synthesizer. This instrument was utilized throughout the tour, as confirmed by his Twitter interaction discussing his gear setup.

See how Towa Tei uses Access Virus TI Polar

Towa Tei

Music Producer

Deee-Lite

...
Verified via Pinterest

the Access Virus TI Polar can be seen in this image

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 TI Polar, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

Show yours
beat_supercell

beat_supercell

Gear IQ 174

dgerbs

dgerbs

Gear IQ 82

marc_martinez

marc_martinez

Gear IQ 793

patrickwolf

patrickwolf

Gear IQ 604

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