Hi Again
Good questions.
There are different kinds of Equalizers and they all can be used differently to achieve different results.
Also EQ's utilize different filter types such as
High Pass
Low Pass
Band Pass (HI + Low)
Band reject/ band stop/ notch
Peaking/ Bell
Shelving EQ - Low and High Shelf
There are 3 band EQ
Semi parametric EQ
Fully parametric EQ
Graphic EQ
http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/jul0...qualisers1.asp
http://equalizers.indepthinfo.com/
The virus has a a Low and High Shelf EQ along with a Parametric Mid Band.
Hardware consoles (MOst Affordable ones) come with a similar configuration of High and Low shelving and a semi parametric or fully parametric Mid band
You could buy a hardware EQ too, but it will probably be for a single or 2 channels. SO You would have to use it separately on all your tracks and probably record back as audio through your interface or use it as an insert on your hardware console and then bring it back into your DAW through the interface.
Your DAW comes with ALL, including Fully parametric EQ's. This gives you a lot more shaping flexibility.
PLease read the article to understand Equalizers.
It is a good idea to bounce down your virus channels as audio to be able to use the virus channels for more sounds. IT will also help you to free up some processor power on the virus. It will also help you to build a library of audio samples that you can use later in other projects. Also You can work with audio in different and creative ways, after finishing up with the midi stuff.
Regarding the analog outputs, I use mostly the USB outs and not the analog outs, although the Analog outs would be great to use.
YOu would have to connect them to 2 channels on your audio interface (inputs) and assign them to 2 empty mono channels or 1 stereo channel in your DAW. Then YOu would have to record them as Audio.
Make sure you finish automating and tweaking the sounds before committing them to audio. save your midi channels to come back later if you need to make changes..also save the patches you create on the virus. Save it all within your project.
Good Luck