Description

SH-MAX is Cherry Audio’s unique blend of three remarkable SH-series synthesizers from the 1970s: the SH-5, SH-7, and SH-3A. But SH-MAX is far from a first-time emulation of these classic instruments in software. We took the undeniably bold sound of the SH-5, combined it with the best features from the other models, and infused it with even more power and versatility. With its assertive tone, versatility, and stunning interface, SH-MAX promises to transform your studio experience, putting a synthesis powerhouse right at your fingertips.

Rated 5 Stars by MusicRadar! “SH-MAX shook the floorboards at MR towers, and it’s hard to overstate exactly how good this thing sounds. It’s deep and detailed, and has a unique sense of warmth, which you could clearly mistake for being real analogue. SH-MAX offers power, warmth, charm and usability, in a highly convincing virtual analogue reproduction, with real heart and soul.”

SH-MAX reproduces the vibrant sounds and essential features of the SH-5, including its powerful dual oscillators, two LFOs, the impressive parallel filter sections (multimode and bandpass), ring modulator, and sample & hold functionality. We then enhanced it with elements from the SH-7, such as autobend, duophony, filter FM, and syncable VCOs with extra waveforms. Furthermore, we included the additive-style oscillator from the SH-3A for greater flexibility. We also incorporated a touch (so to speak) of the expressive capabilities inspired by the SH-2000, along with a classic sequencer influenced by the Model 104. To top it all off, we incorporated three retro interface themes, each reflecting the distinct aesthetics of the SH-3A, SH-5, and SH-7.

What truly stands out about the SH-MAX is the distinctive personality of its filters, which can quickly shift from warm analog tones to aggressive sounds. It excels at producing raw, powerful timbres that easily cut through a mix without the need for additional effects (though those are included as well). We have also incorporated optional drift and slop controls for the oscillators, filters, amp, and dual envelope generators to lend some additional analog vibe.

The powerful SH-style mixer now includes stereo functionality and offers signal routing options comparable to those of a modular synthesizer. Each source — VCO-1, VCO-2A, VCO-2B, Ring Mod, and Noise — is independently routable to the Voltage Controlled Filter (VCF), Bandpass Filter (BPF), or Voltage Controlled Amplifier (VCA), each with its own independent effects chain. SH-MAX includes 20 studio-quality effects that can be arranged and reused within its four effect chains.