Raw Ultra-Analog VA-3 Sound Bank: 100 Gritty Presets

Applied Acoustics Systems presents Raw as a collection that highlights the Ultra-Analog VA-3's lesser-known aggressive character. The presets are built around the natural overdrive of the synth's filters, so grit comes from the core sound rather than from added processing.

The range runs from subtle warmth to heavy distortion. That makes the bank useful both for tones that sit quietly in a mix and for sounds meant to push forward.

The bank contains 100 presets across six categories: 30 bass, 25 lead, 22 mover, 11 pad, 8 key and 5 effect sounds. Bass and lead presets make up over half of the collection, so the bank suits producers working on dirty basslines, aggressive leads and evolving movement sounds.

The effect and pad presets add texture for transitions and background layers. Each category can serve as a starting point for further editing in the synth.

Andre Ettema specializes in audio design and sound programming for artists and picture. He has worked as additional audio designer and synthesizer programmer on film and game scores, including the EA games SSX Blur and Need for Speed Prostreet. His client work has included Scissor Sisters, Madonna and Justin Timberlake.

In 2009 he founded AME Music, which provides audio design for commercials and TV, including campaigns for Audi, Lexus and British Airways. This background in synchronization and branded audio shapes the practical, ready-to-use nature of the presets.