Summary

The Trident Mk III by Cherry Audio is a virtual synthesizer that recreates and enhances the classic Korg Trident synthesizers from the early 1980s. It combines three original instrument sections (Synth, Brass, Strings) in a multitimbral setup with expanded polyphony, modern expressive features, and extensive effects and performance tools.

Features

• Three sections derived from the original hardware: Synthesizer (fully polyphonic with per-voice filter), Brass (paraphonic), and Strings (paraphonic).
• 16 voices per section, allowing complex and rich sounds.
• Velocity sensitivity, channel aftertouch, and polyphonic aftertouch for advanced expression.
• Expanded control panels including Keyboard (performance tools like bend, slide, vibrato), Motion (key splits, layers, sequencer, arpeggiators), and Effects.
• DAW-friendly 16x2 polyphonic step sequencer and dual customizable arpeggiators.
• 17 studio-quality effects, such as BBD flanger, compressor, lo-fi effect, phaser, ring modulator, 7-band EQ, delays, and multiple reverbs including a new Lushverb, arranged flexibly in up to four effects chains.
• Over 380 professionally designed presets spanning 14 categories, created by an experienced sound design team.
• Comprehensive MIDI mapping capabilities.

Historical Context and Design

The original Korg Trident (1981) was notable for its multi-section analog polyphony combining synth, strings, and brass. While it never reached the popularity of contemporaries like the Prophet-5 or Jupiter-8, it was used by artists such as Keith Emerson and Rick Wakeman. Cherry Audio's Trident Mk III revives this unique legacy with authentic sound and modern enhancements, avoiding the original's physical and cost drawbacks.

For Whom

The Trident Mk III is suited for vintage synthesizer enthusiasts seeking authentic classic sounds, producers wanting a versatile multitimbral synth instrument, and musicians interested in a rich orchestral palette integrated into a single virtual instrument.