After extensive public beta testing, Access Music has just released its latest version of the operating system for the Virus TI line of synthesizers. The new operating system introduces new and classic effects including additional distortion types, tape delay, and a ring shifter.

The improved interface allows for flexible manipulation of your synth ranging from express/live tweaking to more detailed sound shaping. The tabs are logically placed from left to right, from simple to detailed, which makes its multitude of features appear in a very organized manner. Everything from instant tweaks, assigned controls, sound library management, oscillators, filters, LFOs, arpeggiation, and effects (in two tabs FX1 and FX2) can be accessed and manipulated at a click of the mouse or via your Access Virus TI hardware.

OS3 boasts of a variety of features and effects that make it unique. Characters attempt to model various setting which optimize the mix of your sound. Some of these characters include analog emulation settings and emphasis. The tape delay is truly versatile in that the tape delay in itself may become one of the reasons you would want to upgrade. The tape delay has four modes, each mode tweakable in order to achieve effects ranging from a mono delay and stereo ping pong up to feedback and Doppler effects reminiscent of the split in Jethro Tull's Thick as a Brick. The frequency shifter / ring modulator can now be found in the FX1 section and boasts of a range of "space synth" effects ala Vangelis or Hawkwind. The new distortion on OS3 features more flexibility via its different modes, each mode having its own distinct set of parameters to add more sickness, dirt, and brutality as needed.

OS3 is available as a free download for all Virus TI users. This Virus certainly has a dazzling symptom range that can leave you feverish, bewildered, and excited at the same time. Consult your doctor of you begin to develop BTs, Skinny Puppies, or Nine Inch Nails.