Element Virtual Analog Synthesizer

I have been playing the Element for many days straight. It is one of the best synths out right now. It is way under rated and reviewed. The tweekability and sound are perfect. A couple minor things I would like to see would give it a 10/10. Like slide/accent on the sequencer for 303 stuff, choice of sub osc. etc. But I am very disappointed that the Element does not work in FL Studio. I would have bought it already and it would be one of my secret weapons that somehow is getting past everyone.

My initial opinion about this synth was that it is not a bad synth but it is a disappointing one, considering the expectations many had as well as the price tag.

I was going to post my review earlier last week but I thought I'd spend a bit more time with it. I'd have given it a 6.

After further evaluation, I'm now giving it... a 5.

A generous 5, taking into account that it is stable, has great ergonomics - and other such reasons, that have nothing to do with the actual sound and features.

Element would be better compared to free VA synths that come bundled w/ most DAW software. And even then - Element doesn't hold a candle to Retrologue which is included in Cubase. I also prefer Logic's ES-2 to it. Or even Vacuum in Pro Tools.

IMHO, it's definitely not a $200 type of virtual instrument - certainly not in 2013. Even if I've never actually seen it going for more than $99, to me, it is not worth it.

Honestly, if you're in the market for VA, there are tons of better and cheaper options to consider before Elements.

The aforementioned Steinberg Retrologue is at the top of my list in terms of sound quality and ease of use - and it goes for a quarter of Elements MSRP.

Similarly, Korg's offerings are a much better choice at a much better price, especially MonoPoly - a must-have synth.

On its own, Element is pretty average. As one among thousands of synths on the market, it isn't exactly noteworthy. And w/ a price tag of $200 - pass...