Chroma Synthesizer

Cherry Audio’s Chroma synthesizer is a virtual reimagining of the legendary Rhodes Chroma, a synthesizer that set a new standard for analog polyphonic instruments in 1982. This meticulously developed software version not only emulates every nuance of the original but also makes sound programming more accessible and powerful with modern enhancements. Cherry Audio has devoted over a year and a half to recreating the Chroma’s unique architecture, resulting in one of their most ambitious projects to date.

The original Chroma was a marvel of engineering, boasting 16-voice polyphony, advanced signal routing, and modulation capabilities that were groundbreaking for its time. However, its flat panel interface made accessing these features challenging. Cherry Audio’s Chroma solves this with a user-friendly interface that includes intuitive pop-up menus and real-time displays integrated directly into parameter buttons, making sound design both powerful and enjoyable.

In addition to the standard single instrument mode, Cherry Audio’s Chroma includes the Chroma Expander, effectively doubling the synthesizer’s capabilities. The Expander allows for layer and split modes, enabling a second Chroma synthesizer to be used simultaneously, enhancing creative possibilities with 16 polyphonic voices across all modes.

Cherry Audio’s Chroma synthesizer is not just a faithful emulation; it is an expansion of the original concept. It includes 16 oscillators, filters, VCAs, and LFOs, along with 32 envelope generators. Users can choose from 16 distinct preconfigured signal paths, ranging from basic VCO-VCF-VCA setups to more complex configurations featuring oscillator sync, filter FM, ring modulation, and variable or serially connected filters. All of the original Chroma’s modulation capabilities are precisely replicated, offering a modular synthesizer-like programming experience.

Further expanding its versatility, the Chroma synthesizer allows for direct import of SysEx patch data from original Chroma hardware, bridging decades of sound design. With seven studio-quality onboard effects, including distortion, phaser, flange/chorus, delay, reverb, and a global EQ and limiter, the Chroma synthesizer offers a comprehensive toolset for sound design. The library includes 700 extraordinary presets, featuring the original 250 factory presets and 450 additional custom presets crafted by expert sound designers.

Whether you’re seeking to recreate the classic sounds used by legends like Herbie Hancock and Joe Zawinul or to explore new sonic territories, the Cherry Audio Chroma synthesizer provides an unparalleled synthesis experience, combining the best of the past with the innovations of today.

Key Features:

• Faithful Analog Emulation: Exactingly reproduces the Rhodes Chroma’s analog polyphonic synthesis, including 16 oscillators, filters, VCAs, LFOs, and 32 envelope generators.
• 16 Preconfigured Signal Paths: Offers a wide range of configurations, from basic to complex, for advanced sound design.
• Chroma Expander: Effectively adds a second Chroma synthesizer for layer and split modes, with 16 polyphonic voices across all modes.
• Enhanced User Interface: Intuitive pop-up menus and real-time displays simplify the programming process, making it accessible to both novices and professionals.
• SysEx Import: Directly import patches from original Chroma hardware, allowing for seamless integration with vintage equipment.
• Studio-Quality Effects: Includes seven integrated effects, such as distortion, phaser, flange/chorus, delay, reverb, and a global EQ and limiter.
• Expansive Preset Library: Includes 700 presets, featuring the original 250 Chroma factory presets and 450 additional custom presets.
• Complete MIDI Control: Full MIDI control and DAW automation for all parameters, with easy MIDI Learn and mapping.
• Versatile Format Support: Available as a standalone instrument and in AU, VST, VST3, and AAX plugin formats.
• Modern Features: Cherry Audio’s Focus zoom-in feature, standard UI zoom, and resize options, along with user-adjustable oversampling control.