AudioPilz Takes On VITAL: The Free Synth That Puts Serum To Shame?

The Free Alternative

AudioPilz opens up with VITAL, an entry into the realm of free wavetable synths that dares to go toe-to-toe with the revered Serum. The video doesn’t shy away from highlighting the initial apprehensions when dealing with a free option, but swiftly showcases how VITAL checks a lot of boxes that make it a serious contender.

"At first glance, Vital is taking all the, at least its three, boxes."

Digging Into Features

The comparison with Serum comes laden with an analytical breakdown of VITAL’s features. AudioPilz takes us through the intricacies of its wavetable editing and modulation capabilities, pointing out where it shines and where it stumbles. Despite missing a few features present in Serum, VITAL is no slouch with its three wavetable oscillators and comprehensive modulating options. It offers a dual filter section and random generators aplenty, catering well to those who love crafting complex soundscapes.

User-Friendly Innovation

"Assigning modulations is a breeze and the dedicated mod matrix is exemplary."

A significant plus for VITAL is its user-friendly interface, which AudioPilz praises for its intuitive design that doesn’t require you to wage war with bulky manuals. Instead, it’s a breeze to assign modulations, and the dedicated mod matrix simplifies the process further. Even though it’s a heavy hitter on the CPU, the overall user experience remains impressive.

Genre-Bending Versatility

Showcased through multiple music jams, VITAL’s versatility stands stout across various EDM genres like Drum’n’Bass and Electro. These jams underline its potential to produce polished tones straight from the synth, making it a gem for producers strapped for cash yet eager to express their creative impulses.

The Rise of Freeware

The video doubles down on the growing trend of high-quality freeware plugins, with VITAL standing as a testament to this shift. AudioPilz examines how VITAL challenges pricier rivals by offering comparable sound quality and accessibility. Despite some notable omissions when pitted against its more costly competition, it manages to democratise electronic music production in ways budget hardware never could.

"Vital makes us aware of how weird the music technology landscape has become."

Conclusion: A Valuable Player

AudioPilz wraps up with a reflective verdict on VITAL’s place within the synth ecosystem. While acknowledging the advantages of spending on features like Serum 2’s multi-sample support, there’s no denying VITAL’s contribution to making quality music production more accessible to everyone. It’s a statement piece in the evolving landscape of digital music tech.