Usynth STRANGER Spooky Synthwave Contest
Create your own dark, retro synthwave track inspired by 80s horror vibes and analog nostalgia.
October 23, 2025
Are you ready to step into the shadows of the 80s?
UJAM invites all music producers and synth lovers to take part in the Usynth STRANGER Spooky Synthwave Contest — where retro nostalgia meets eerie darkness.
This is your chance to show off your creativity, build haunting synthscapes, and win some truly epic prizes — including the UJAM Music Creation Suite, Baby Audio Synthwave Essentials, and even the Rhodes V8 plug-in.
🎹The Challenge
Create a dark, vintage synthwave track that captures the haunting energy of the 80s. Think neon fog, flickering VHS static, and those spine-tingling synth melodies that make your hairs stand on end.
Your mission:
🎹 Use Usynth STRANGER for all your synth sounds
🎚️ Add at least one Finisher RETRO effect
🕹️ Build an dark synthwave atmosphere of mystery, tension, and warmth
If your Usynth STRANGER trial has expired, don’t worry — just reach out to our support team for a trial reset.
🕹️ Theme Inspiration
80s Synthwave
Dark & Horror Aesthetics
VHS Texture & Analog Nostalgia
Cinematic Atmosphere
“Stranger Things" inspired compositions
📜 Contest Rules
Length: Your track should be at least 45 seconds long.
Originality: No copyrighted vocals or uncleared samples — keep it fully original.
Synths:
All synth sounds must come exclusively from Usynth STRANGER.
Use at least one effect from Finisher RETRO.
You’re free to use any other effects, drums, guitars, or instruments you like.
Proof: Include a screenshot of your DAW project showing that you used STRANGER and RETRO.
📤 Submission
Upload your finished audio file in the #contests channel on the UJAM Discord.
🏆 Prizes
👑 Judging Panel
Your tracks will be reviewed by an all-star lineup of synth legends:
Derek Von Krogh – Head of Sound Design at UJAM
Peter Gorges – UJAM Co-Founder & Synth Guru
Ryan Baxter – Composer & 80s Synthwave Legend
The top entries will be played live during a livestream feedback session, where Derek Von Krogh will give in-depth feedback and reveal the winners.
📅 Timeline
Start: October 23
Submission Deadline: November 10
Livestream & Winner Announcement: November 19
🔮 Tips for a Winning Track
Focus on atmosphere and texture – STRANGER thrives on cinematic mood.
Use Finisher RETRO to get that authentic VHS/analog character.
Think dark synths, neon fog, flickering static, and 80s film tension.
💬 FAQ
Q: Do I need to own Usynth STRANGER and Finisher RETRO to participate?
A: Yes, but if your STRANGER trial has expired, contact our support team — we’ll make sure you can join!
🎃 You can also get Usynth STRANGER for only $5 right now as part of our limited-time spooky deal. Don’t miss out — it’s the perfect way to join the contest and add some dark 80s magic to your tracks.
Q: Can I use other UJAM plugins or instruments?
A: Absolutely. Just make sure all synth sounds come from Usynth STRANGER and that you use at least one Finisher RETRO effect.
Q: How do I submit my track?
A: Upload your audio file directly to the #contests channel on UJAM’s Discord, along with a screenshot showing STRANGER and RETRO in your session.
Q: What file format should I use?
A: Any audio file format supported by Discord works, so feel free to use whatever fits your workflow best. MP3 or WAV is recommended.
Q: How will winners be chosen?
A: Our panel (Derek, Peter, and Ryan) will evaluate tracks based on creativity, sound design, atmosphere, and mix quality.
Q: When will I find out if I’ve won?
A: Tune in to the livestream on November 19, where the top tracks will be played and winners announced live.
Ready to Join the Darkness?
Bring your synths, channel your inner 80s hero, and enter the Usynth STRANGER Spooky Synthwave Contest today.
Step into the neon shadows — and maybe, just maybe, come out on top. 🌌
👉 Enter now via UJAM’s Discord #contests channel!
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