NEWS  Plugins VST  November 22, 2023  Reading time: 3 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

Following the successful release of the PS-3300, Cherry Audio is back with another exciting launch - the Cherry Audio Pro Soloist - perfectly timed for Thanksgiving celebrations!

Cherry Audio has not only introduced the Pro Soloist to their lineup but has also seamlessly integrated it, along with several other recent releases, into their outstanding Synth Stack. Before delving into that, let's rewind a bit and explore some historical context.

The ARP Pro Soloist Evolution

Back in 1972, ARP took their widely acclaimed Soloist mono synth and elevated it to 'Pro' status. Originally introduced in 1970 as the first commercial preset synth, the Soloist was modest, offering only 18 preset tones designed to complement rather than stand alone. The Pro version not only expanded the presets using digital memory chips but also brought tuning stability to the forefront. Notably, it introduced touch sensor capability in its keyboard, a groundbreaking feature at the time.

Expression took center stage with the touch sensor, allowing users to assign a range of effects such as pitch bend, wow, growl, brilliance, and more—all at the touch of a switch. This early form of aftertouch was a novel and exciting addition to the musical landscape.

Cherry Audio's Take on Pro Soloist

Cherry Audio Pro Soloist faithfully checks all the boxes of the original. Notably, it now allows playing across the entire 88-note keyboard with a staggering 16 voices of polyphony. Moreover, a second layer provides an additional 16 voices, enabling unprecedented stacked or split sounds. The clever addition of simulating polyphonic aftertouch using a channel aftertouch keyboard adds a new dimension to the instrument.

The straightforward front panel has undergone substantial expansion without compromising space efficiency. Three main panel modes—Performance, Edit, and Arp/FX—are easily selectable on the left. Performance mode mirrors the original hardware with instantly recognizable big, flappy switches. The Edit mode delves deeper, allowing manipulation of the LFO, VCO, VCF, VCA, and envelopes through tab-accessed layers. The Pro Soloist introduces five Resonator Banks with modulateable resonance controls via the Mod Matrix, a tech-savvy feature.

Tech Specs and Features

Driving the 16-voice-per-layer capability is a VCO with sawtooth and pulse waves, featuring an additional Super Wave option. These can be modulated using ADSR or AR envelopes, LFO, and velocity. Independent panning for each layer's associated VCO adds to the sonic flexibility. The VCF, a 24db/oct affair with filter invert and various modulation sources, includes a 'Growl' feature powered by a special low-frequency oscillator.

The LFO, with four waveforms and tempo-sync ability, adds rhythmic elements. ADSR and AR envelope versions contribute to shaping the sound. A robust 6-slot mod matrix, boasting 22 sources and 58 destinations, including FX, expands creative possibilities. The Pro Soloist packs a suite of impressive onboard FX—distortion, phaser, flanger/chorus, echo, and reverb, featuring Cherry Audio's delightful Galactic reverb.

Pro Soloist ships with over 400 presets, with additional packs available for purchase at launch, ensuring a rich and varied musical palette for users.

COVER IMAGE AND VIDEO BY CHERRY AUDIO