OSTIRUS Review

The Usual Suspects have released a new version of their VirusTi emulation/plugin. Now there are some issues with this as technically there isn’t an official licensed plugin, but in this case as the required files are easy to find as they are supplied by Access! So debating about the legality aside this plugin emulates the Motorola 56300 DSP, the ROM files make the VirusTi emulation and then it is wrapped into a VST3, CLAP etc. plugin.

Also note that there are a few other emulations/plugins available on that website though getting hold of roms can be more difficult. I have decided to review the VirusTi version here, but please be aware that all of the emulations work well and for the price, well they cannot be beaten!

These are well worth checking out! The emulation once you have found the required files, sounds etc. is excellent. The amount of patches available both by default and out in the wild are superb. Now I’m not the greatest fan of the virus sound to be honest, but after a few hours playing with this I can say that there are so many classic sounds available and well it performs great. CPU usage was pretty low meaning you could have a couple of instances running if you wanted and browsing and editing patches worked really well. This plugin is just a breeze to use and even if you don’t edit anything it is very, very useable right from the get go.

OsTIRus Plugin/emulation Review

9 out of 10

I am in no way advocating piracy but the required files are easy to come across and as the product is now discontinued I can’t see the issue with reviewing it. Great product as it effectively gives you a VirusTi and loads of presets all wrapped up in a decent package. Can’t fault it for the price and whilst it is in no way the prettiest thing to look at it works really well. Not bad cpu usage considering it is effectively an emulation wrapped in a plugin(s). Worth jumping through the (small) hoops to get and use

Stability

9 out of 10

Hasn't crashed on me so far which is admirable as it is work in progress.

Ease of Use

8.1 out of 10

Have to find the correct rom to use but it is fairly easily found. Manual copying of files required to install.

Look, feel & sound

9 out of 10

Looks basic but gets the job done, all editing is easy though could be better. Looks basic. Sounds great though with loads of presets/patches available

Price

10 out of 10

It is free – if you can find the required files!

Pros

Easy to use

Great price!

Sounds great and has loads of sounds!

Cons

Ethically it isn't the best, but it is a discontinued product

Finding the files required specifically the roms isn't the easiest

Basic looking and way behind a lot of modern plugins

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