How to Use BV-X Vocoder by Reason Studios
At the end of April Reason Studios launched a new effect for Reason: BV-X. BV-X is being marketed as a vocoder, and yea, it does that pretty well. But as you'll hear in the demos below, it's actually way more powerful just a Vocoder, though. It works amazing as a gated filter that can transform the most boring sounds into something interesting!
BV-X is really great vocoder, but if you're not sure what you're looking for or don't own Reason, be sure to check out the best vocoder VSTs.
Note: this article may contain affiliate links, which mean that I receive a commission for any purchases you make, at no added cost to you.
How do you get BV-X?
If you are a Reason+ subscriber (you can start a free trial here), you can get access to BV-X instantly right now. Otherwise, you can purchase it here for $99.
In either event, you download it through the Reason Companion app.
What Does BV-X Do?
BV-X is a vocoder, so it does all sorts of fun voice manipulations. But it's way more than that. It has a lot of filtering capabilities, plus some stellar on board oscillators that make it into a hyper powered synth.
Whether you're processing your vocals through it, or turning a percussion loop into a evolving textures, BV-X is a turbocharged tool for making old sounds new and new sounds ... newer.
Some of the main features of the BV-X are:
- Two vocoder modes (Vintage and Modern) mode for lo-fi vocoding or precise modulation
- Built-in synthesizer for simple set-up and a great sound
- Powerful modulation matrix for dynamic vocoding and creative sound design
- CV and audio inputs and outputs connect to other devices in the Reason Rack
What Does BV-X Sound Like?
I've put together this in-depth tutorial and demo video to give you a better idea of what the BV-X sounds like. It also includes a detailed walk through of how to use the BV-X, walking you through the modulator and carrier sections, as well as some of its more advanced options.
Verdict
The BV-X is a great modern vocoder and filter effect. It's fun to use, super simple to setup, and sounds great. If I already owned some other high quality vocoders, I probably wouldn't buy the BV-X, only because I don't need ALL of the vocoders. But if I owned Reason and was seriously looking for a fantastic vocoder, this would be my top pick. It's way better than the built-in vocoders that come stock with Reason!
At least, those are my two cents. What do you think? Would you recommend the BV-X?
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