The Access Virus TI represents a groundbreaking evolution in synthesizer design, bridging the divide between hardware and software instruments through what Access calls "Total Integration" (hence the TI designation). Released in October 2005 after considerable anticipation, the Virus TI builds upon Access' established reputation for creating powerful hardware synthesizers while embracing the software revolution.

The Virus TI was  available in three distinct models, this one, the TI Keyboard, features a 61-note keyboard with modulation and pitch wheels, replacing the previous Virus KC model.

Sound Engine

The Virus TI features a completely overhauled architecture compared to previous Virus models, utilizing a dual-DSP configuration with faster processors. This provides significantly more power, with Access quoting a polyphony of 80 voices "under average conditions." The actual polyphony depends on how many oscillators are used and what effects are active.

The TI's sound engine includes two groundbreaking new oscillators:

• Hypersaw: A sawtooth oscillator capable of generating up to nine sawtooth waves in parallel, with real-time control of oscillator count and no audible glitching. Combined with the Virus' Unison mode, this theoretically allows up to 72 oscillators per note (or 144 when using both main oscillators).
• Wavetable: A true wavetable oscillator with 72 wavetables plus a sine wave. Includes smooth crossfaded transitions between waves via the Wavetable Index parameter.

Total Integration Features

The "Total Integration" concept allows the Virus TI to function in multiple roles simultaneously:

• As a standalone hardware synthesizer
• As a sample-accurate instrument plug-in within computer-based sequencers
• As an audio recording device for computer (utilizing onboard audio inputs/outputs)
• As a MIDI interface (using built-in MIDI ports and keyboard)
• As a hardware control surface for the Virus software running in plug-in mode

The Virus Control plug-in application switches the Virus TI into "Sequencer mode," transforming the hardware control surface into a controller for the plug-in. The communication between hardware and software is internal, requiring no additional setup, and allows automation recording through the host's automation system.

Interface Improvements

The TI features significant interface enhancements over previous Virus models:

• New 128x32-pixel LCD display providing more information with improved readability
• Addition of eight new buttons including a Shift key
• Three soft knobs (up from two on the Virus C) with context-specific functions
• Adjustable LED brightness for studio and stage environments
• Improved knob response visualization thanks to the enhanced display

Audio Quality

The TI offers enhanced audio quality through:

• 192kHz D-A converters with optional soft limiting
• Improved 24-bit A-D converters (up from 18-bit)
• S/PDIF digital input and output via RCA connections
• Ability to operate at 44.1kHz or 48kHz internal sampling rates

Effects System

The effects architecture has been improved, now featuring:

• Independent delay and reverb effects for each of the 16 parts
• Enhanced Multi mode that embeds all data for every part in one patch

Modulation Capabilities

The modulation system offers:

• Six modulation matrix slots with one source and three destinations each
• A total of six sources and 18 destinations
• Three LFOs capable of complex modulation effects

USB Connectivity

The TI connects to computers via USB 2.0, enabling:

• Audio transfer to and from the computer
• MIDI communication
• Integration with host sequencers through the Virus Control plug-in
• Use as an audio and MIDI interface for the computer music system

Technical Specifications

Synthesis Engine

• Architecture: Dual-DSP Motorola 56k family processors
• Polyphony: Up to 80 voices under average conditions (varies with oscillator and effect usage)
• Parts: 16-part multitimbral
• Oscillators:
  • Two main oscillators per voice
  • Sub-oscillator
  • Noise generator
  • New Hypersaw oscillator (up to 9 sawtooth waves per oscillator)
  • Wavetable oscillator (72 wavetables plus sine wave)
• Unison: Up to 8 voices per note
• Filters: Various filter types including low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, and band-reject
• Modulation:
  • Six modulation matrix slots (6 sources to 18 destinations)
  • Three LFOs
  • Arpeggiator with extensive programming options

Audio Specifications

• Sample Rate: Internal 44.1kHz or 48kHz operation
• D-A Conversion: 192kHz with optional soft limiting
• A-D Conversion: 24-bit
• Inputs:
  • 1x stereo analog input (1/4" jacks)
  • S/PDIF digital input (RCA)
• Outputs:
  • 3x stereo analog output pairs (1/4" jacks)
  • S/PDIF digital output (RCA)
  • Stereo headphone output

Connectivity

• USB: USB 2.0 port for computer connectivity
• MIDI: In, Out, and Thru
• Pedal Inputs: Control and Hold pedal inputs (Polar and Keyboard models)

Control Interface

• Display: 128x32-pixel LCD
• Knobs: Multiple parameter knobs plus three context-sensitive soft knobs
• LED Indicators: Adjustable brightness, including tempo-synced logo illumination
• Keyboard:
  • Desktop: None
  • Keyboard: 61-note keyboard with mod and pitch wheels
  • Polar: 37-note keyboard

Power

• Built-in auto-sensing power supply

Software Integration

• Plug-in Formats: Compatible with VST, Audio Units, and other major formats
• Control Software: Virus Control application
• Audio Drivers:
  • Windows: Direct X, MME, and ASIO
  • Mac: Core Audio and MIDI
• Patch Storage:
  • ROM/RAM banks on hardware
  • Additional storage on computer in MIDI file format

Special Features

• Hardware knob control modes: Jump, Snap, and Relative
• "Logo Groove" tempo-synced illumination (Polar and Keyboard models only)