UAD Spotlight: Anthem Analog Synthesizer

Craft bold sounds with a vintage‑inspired VST synth for the ages. 

In this Getting Started video, Matt Petersen gives you a walkthrough of UAD Anthem Analog Synthesizer – a powerful virtual instrument plug-in that's designed for bold, analog-style sound design. 

From raw, gritty basses to evolving sequences and lo‑fi textures, Anthem gives you fast workflows and massive tone straight out of the box. Learn what makes this plug-in so special, and how to get the most out of it in your productions. 

 

 

Step 1: Start with Big Oscillators

At the core of this VST synth plug‑in are two analog‑modeled oscillators, great for dialing in classic waveforms with a modern twist.

Try this:

  • Start with the default saw wave for immediate impact
  • Adjust the Oscillator Shape knob to sweep through triangle, saw, square, and pulse waves 
  • Use the outer ring to add movement from the filter envelope or LFO

 

Step 2: Shape Your Tone with Anthem’s Filter

Anthem's analog-modeled low‑pass filter delivers squelch, warmth, and personality.

Try this: 

  • Use MIDI Learn to map cutoff and resonance controls to your hardware for real‑time sweeps
  • Use the Drive control to add harmonics and analog grit while smoothing harsh highs
  • Use Growl to introduce grunge and heavy analog tones

 

“Drive, Growl, and Resonance are deeply interactive. It's best to experiment to find unexpected textures.”

 

Step 3: Add Movement with Modulation

Anthem makes modulation easy — perfect for evolving pads or vintage PWM effects.

Try this:

  • Use LFO modulation with pulse shapes for instant synth nostalgia
  • Use Pitch Mod to create 808s, risers, and tuned percussive sounds
  • Use Warp Control to add edgy textures via ring mod and hard sync-style effects

 

Step 4: Add Lo‑Fi Color with Built‑In FX

With analog‑modeled effects built right in, this VST synth plug‑in goes beyond raw sound design and into full mix‑ready production.

Try this:

  • Use the Chorus control to add width and subtle movement
  • Use Hall or Spring reverb for added depth without needing extra plug‑ins
  • Use BPM sync and automate for tape-style echos or beat-repeat tricks

 

“Automating the echo mix knob is an easy way to add ear candy to your sequences.”

 

Step 5: Sequence, Experiment, Evolve

Anthem’s step sequencer transforms the plug-in into an idea machine, giving you independent control over pitch, velocity, and gate length.

Try this:

  • Use offset step counts per lane for evolving and generative sequences
  • Use Gate + Velocity shaping to add groove and expressive articulation
  • Play a complete melody by simply holding one note

 

An Inspiring Synth for the Ages

If you're looking for analog-inspired synth sounds without the menu diving, Anthem is for you. Whether used alongside other VSTs or as your main creative tool, it brings raw tone and expressive control to any production workflow.

Explore Anthem Analog Synthesizer ›
Shop UAD Synths and Instrument Plug‑Ins ›

— UA Staff

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