VACS is a freeware virtual analogue synthesizer VSTi plugin released by Noizefield, featuring a built-in step 32-step sequencer and a powerful modulation matrix.
This is the second freeware release coming from Noizefield in a rather short period of time. Last week they introduced us to 4 Tune, a surprisingly capable virtual analogue synthesizer designed to deliver a set of classic EDM style basslines and lead sounds.
VACS shares a similar concept with its predecessor, aiming to provide an arsenal of sounds suitable for use in techno, big room house, electro house and similar music genres. Although most of the included presets are classic EDM style patches, this freeware synthesizer is capable of producing some rather unique and unusual electronic sounds once you start digging deeper into its rather versatile subtractive synthesis engine.
Compared to the previously released 4 Tune synthesizer, the latest Noizefield freebie introduces a range of interesting features such as the capable 32-step sequencer/arpeggiator and an array of built-in sound effects including a chorus, stereo delay and a bitcrusher module. VACS also features a handy saturation effect which is capable of making the bass and lead patches cut more easily through a busy EDM mix.
The two most interesting parts of the VACS synthesis engine are the oscillator section and the step sequencer module. The plugin features three oscillators in total, with 64 different waveforms per oscillator. The standard sine, saw and square waves are accompanied by a rather large line-up of wavetables which really broaden the instrument’s sound palette.
The step sequencer is loads of fun to play around with, as it allows the user to tweak the tempo setting and the number of steps during a performance. One minor drawback of the sequencer module is the fact that the upper half of the display fades to black, making it much harder to spot which steps are active at any given moment. Hopefully, the developer will improve this issue in an updated version of the plugin, especially since VACS is a rather well designed instrument otherwise.
On a related note, Noizefield has also released a free collection of atmospheric loops called Total Textures Vol.1. The free sound library features 111 MB of royalty free audio material.
Download
VACS is available for free download via Noizefield (4.94 MB download size, ZIP archive, 32-bit VSTi plugin format for Windows, made with FlowStone/SynthMaker).
Last Updated on February 9, 2015 by Tomislav Zlatic.
