Summary

The Rhodes Chroma by Cherry Audio is a virtual instrument faithfully recreating the iconic 1982 Rhodes Chroma polyphonic analog synthesizer, enhanced with modern features and a user-friendly interface.

Background and Heritage

The original Rhodes Chroma synthesizer was developed starting in 1979 by ARP Instruments and released under the Rhodes brand in 1982. It featured 16-voice polyphony, microprocessor control, aftertouch, advanced signal routing, and modulation, making it a pioneering instrument of its time. The original hardware is rare and highly regarded, used by notable artists like Herbie Hancock and Joe Zawinul.

Key Features

• Accurate emulation of the original Rhodes Chroma hardware components, including 16 oscillators, filters, VCAs, LFOs, and 32 envelope generators.
• Supports importing original SysEx patch data and WAV-format cassette data from the vintage instrument.
• Offers 16 distinct preconfigured signal paths ranging from simple VCO-VCF-VCA chains to complex modulations like oscillator sync, filter FM, and ring modulation.
• Modernized user interface with intuitive pop-up elements, real-time displays, and comprehensive modulation menus for easier sound design.
• Expressive keyboard features including velocity sensitivity, aftertouch, multiple monophonic and polyphonic modes, and arpeggiator modes.
• Double mode with Chroma Expander emulation allows layering and splitting of two synthesizers with full 16-voice polyphony.
• Comes with original 250 factory presets plus 450 additional custom presets covering a wide range of musical styles.
• Includes seven studio-quality integrated effects such as distortion, phaser, flange/chorus, delay, reverb, plus global EQ and limiter.

User Support and Community

The product features tutorial videos by the lead designer, extensive preset libraries by professional sound designers, and a separate Chroma Classics Preset Pack add-on. Testimonials from acclaimed producers and composers underline the quality and musicianship enabled by the instrument.