iVCS3

iVCS3

Official EMS VCS3 emulator

203 ratings
192 reviews
$19.99
In-App Purchases

Details

  • Released
  • Updated
  • March 6, 2014
  • April 10, 2026

Features

iVCS3 screenshot #1 for iPhone
iVCS3 screenshot #2 for iPhone
iVCS3 screenshot #3 for iPhone
iVCS3 screenshot #4 for iPhone
iVCS3 screenshot #5 for iPhone
iVCS3 screenshot #6 for iPhone
iphone
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About

This application emulates the iconic EMS VCS3 synthesizer, a pioneering portable synthesizer from 1969. It recreates the original's unique sound generation capabilities, including its oscillators, filters, and patch matrix, allowing users to explore its distinctive sonic palette.

Official EMS VCS3 emulation
Three oscillators (2 VCOs, 1 LFO)
Noise generator
Voltage controlled low pass filter (VCF)
Patch board matrix
Joy-stick controller
Voltage controlled spring reverb
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What users say

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What's New in iVCS3

3.6.3

April 10, 2026

RESTORE PURCHASED works for OS 26

4

In-App Purchases

Free

Red Sky Lullaby - 180 Presets

https://www.apesoft.it/video/RedSky.mp4

User reviews

The Real Deal

Having owned and used both a VCS-3 and an AKS for many years back in the ‘70s I can confirm that this app is a stunningly accurate replica of the original instruments.
It has some additional features. For example, used in AUM, you can add additional control modules (like LFOs) and apply them to just about every control on the APP’s panels.
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Mac compatibility now available.

The update sounds great on iPad, but mentioned Mac compatibility doesn’t seem to be available. Really hope this is added soon.

Update: Mac compatibility now working - fantastic!

Lil Woodryc

This plug-in is absolutely nuts

Eight different effects to play

around with and even a

bit crusher functionality sound

design possibilities are endless

good for lofi textures in sound

EMS VCS Emulator

I’ve used this secret sauce Monster Emulator for approximately 2.5 years now Still there’s nothing close to the raw power and versatility that you can run on an iOS device . Once you channel it through a Universal Audio NEVE strip plug in or a Fairchild and an Eventide ? What larks

Keyboard disappears

Love mostly all about this app, but the keyboard shows up when loading the app and then flies out of frame and can't be brought back which makes it hard to play - left with drones and the sequenzer its still nice, but an bugfix update would be amazing

Developer apps

Featured on

User experience

🐞

Reported Bugs

3 issues

Presets not loading

Bug

Crashes on iOS 15.04

Bug

Sampler not functioning properly

Bug

Requested Features

3 requests

Mac compatibility

Feature

Improved preset management

Feature

Expanded sampling capabilities

Feature

FAQ

What is the iVCS3 app?

The iVCS3 app is an official emulator of the EMS VCS3, a groundbreaking portable analog synthesizer released in 1969. It allows users to experience the unique sonic capabilities of this historic instrument on their mobile devices.

What are the key features of the iVCS3 emulator?

The app features three oscillators (two standard and one LFO), a noise generator, a voltage-controlled low-pass filter, a patch board matrix for connecting modules, a joystick controller, and a voltage-controlled spring reverb. It aims to replicate the original hardware's functionality.

Is the iVCS3 app free to use?

The application is free to download and use, but it offers in-app purchases. These purchases likely unlock additional features, presets, or functionalities beyond the core emulation.

What kind of music can I create with the iVCS3?

The VCS3 was famously used by progressive rock bands and for sound effects in TV shows. You can use the iVCS3 to create a wide range of sounds, from experimental textures and atmospheric soundscapes to the distinctive electronic sounds characteristic of the 1970s.

Can I connect a keyboard to the iVCS3?

While the original VCS3 lacked a built-in keyboard, external controllers like the DK1 and DK2 were available. The app description mentions keyboard controllers and sequencers associated with the VCS3, suggesting potential compatibility or emulation of these features.