Arturia V Collection X is a comprehensive virtual instrument suite that brings together 39 meticulously crafted software emulations of classic synthesizers, keyboards, and other instruments. This latest iteration builds upon the success of previous versions, adding new instruments and refining existing ones. The collection spans decades of music technology, from vintage analog synths to modern digital instruments and hybrid creations. V Collection X introduces several new additions, including Acid V (a TB-303-inspired bass synthesizer), MiniFreak V (based on Arturia’s hardware MiniFreak synth), and CP-70 V (emulating the Yamaha CP-70 electric grand piano). It also expands the Augmented series with new Brass, Grand Piano, and Woodwind instruments. Existing plugins like Mini V and Wurli V have been updated with improved sound engines and features.
Pros:
• Extensive collection of 39 high-quality virtual instruments
• Faithful emulations of classic hardware with added modern features
• Diverse range of synthesis types and sound creation possibilities
• Regular updates and additions to the collection
Cons:
• Significant system resources required for some instruments
• Learning curve can be steep for users new to synthesis
The suite offers an extensive range of sounds and synthesis types, catering to various musical genres and production styles. From faithful recreations of iconic instruments to innovative hybrids, V Collection X provides a vast sonic palette for producers, composers, and sound designers. The collection is designed to integrate seamlessly into modern music production workflows, with each instrument available as a standalone application or plugin for use within digital audio workstations.
V Collection X boasts an impressive array of features across its 39 instruments. Each plugin is designed to capture the essence of its hardware counterpart while offering expanded functionality for modern music production.
The analog synthesizer emulations form the backbone of the collection, including classics like the Mini V (Minimoog), Prophet-5 V, and CS-80 V. These instruments recreate the warm, rich tones of their hardware inspirations with remarkable accuracy. The newly added Acid V brings the iconic squelchy bass sounds of the TB-303 to the collection, complete with a sequencer for creating authentic acid lines.
Digital synthesizers are well-represented, with emulations of the Yamaha DX7, Casio CZ series, and the Synclavier. The addition of MiniFreak V expands the digital offerings, bringing the unique sound and flexibility of Arturia’s hardware synth to the software realm.
The collection’s keyboard instruments cover a wide range, from electric pianos like the Wurlitzer and Rhodes to the newly added CP-70 V. Acoustic piano sounds are handled by the Piano V and the new Augmented Grand Piano, offering both realistic and creatively processed tones.
Arturia Augmented series, which blends sampling and synthesis, has been expanded in V Collection X. The new Brass, Woodwind, and Grand Piano instruments join the existing Strings and Voices, providing a wealth of organic and hybrid sounds for film scoring and contemporary production.
Each instrument in the collection features a user-friendly interface that balances authenticity with modern functionality. Advanced modulation options, built-in effects, and expanded sound-shaping controls allow users to push beyond the limitations of the original hardware. Many instruments also include additional sound banks and presets, providing instant inspiration and a wide range of production-ready sounds.
The Analog Lab feature ties the collection together, offering a unified interface for browsing and combining sounds from across the entire suite. This powerful tool allows for quick layering and splitting of instruments, making it easy to create complex, multi-timbral patches.
V Collection X stands out in the crowded field of virtual instrument suites due to its comprehensive nature and focus on emulating specific hardware. While other collections like Native Instruments Komplete offer a broader range of instrument types, including orchestral and world instruments, V Collection X specializes in synthesizers and keyboard instruments. Compared to individual emulations from companies like U-he or Softube, Arturia’s offerings in V Collection X may not always match the absolute pinnacle of accuracy for each specific instrument. However, the breadth of the collection and the consistency of the user interface across instruments provide significant value and ease of use. Plugin Alliance’s bx_oberhausen or Synapse Audio’s The Legend might offer more detailed emulations of specific synths, but V Collection X provides a cohesive ecosystem of instruments that work well together and cover a much wider range of sounds and synthesis types.
This plugin is best for:
• Music producers seeking a diverse palette of classic and modern synthesizer sounds
• Film and game composers requiring a wide range of keyboard and hybrid instruments
• Sound designers looking for extensive sound-shaping capabilities
• Electronic musicians interested in authentic recreations of iconic synths
• Studios wanting a comprehensive collection of virtual instruments to cover multiple genres
V Collection X represents a significant evolution in Arturia’s flagship product line. The addition of new instruments like Acid V and MiniFreak V demonstrates Arturia’s commitment to expanding the collection’s sonic possibilities. The updated versions of existing plugins, such as Mini V and Wurli V, show a dedication to refining and improving the core offerings. The suite’s strength lies in its versatility and depth. From accurate vintage emulations to forward-thinking hybrid instruments, V Collection X provides tools for a wide range of musical applications. The consistent interface design across instruments helps users quickly adapt to new additions, while the depth of each plugin rewards deeper exploration.