Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
via this listing
"Fully overhauled
PSU new, CC+ board, midi
comes plus mini programmer (see photo)"
Showing posts with label Chroma. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chroma. Show all posts
Wednesday, January 22, 2025
Monday, January 13, 2025
CHROMA CONSOLE MEETS PERKONS
video upload by Keith Duncan Sound
"THIS IS ME EXPERIMENTING WITH THE CHROMA CONSOLE FOR THE FIRST TIME. I AM ON THE SEARCH FOR A GOD PLAYABLE EFFECTS BOX LIKE THE DREADBOX TYPHON BUT I DON'T THINK THIS IS IT... YOU WILL SEE WHY."
Friday, January 03, 2025
A Brief History of 80s Synths - SynthForceAlpha!
Friday, December 20, 2024
1980s Rhodes Chroma (Model 2103) 16-Voice Analog Synthesizer SN 30915
Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
via this listing
Additional SYNTH CITY Listings
Super rare synthesizer, originally designed by ARP just before they closed their doors. Rhodes saved the day by bringing just 3000 units to the light of day. This particular unit has been serviced thoroughly by our in-house technician. Serial No. 21030915
Polyphony - 16 voices max
Oscillators - 16 VCOs: 0-63 value mix of sawtooth and variable pulse waveforms; 16 modulation sources
LFO - 16 LFO waveforms
Filter - Switchable hi-pass or low-pass filters
VCA - ADSR
Keyboard - 64 weighted-keys with velocity (polyphonic aftertouch optional)
Memory - 50 patches + external cassette tape interface"
via this listing
Additional SYNTH CITY Listings
Super rare synthesizer, originally designed by ARP just before they closed their doors. Rhodes saved the day by bringing just 3000 units to the light of day. This particular unit has been serviced thoroughly by our in-house technician. Serial No. 21030915
Polyphony - 16 voices max
Oscillators - 16 VCOs: 0-63 value mix of sawtooth and variable pulse waveforms; 16 modulation sources
LFO - 16 LFO waveforms
Filter - Switchable hi-pass or low-pass filters
VCA - ADSR
Keyboard - 64 weighted-keys with velocity (polyphonic aftertouch optional)
Memory - 50 patches + external cassette tape interface"
Tuesday, December 10, 2024
Sound morphing with Electra One /w Rhodes Chroma
video upload by Electra One MIDI Controller
"A demonstration of discovering new sounds using the Electra One's snapshot morphing and randomization features.
This functionality will be available in the upcoming Electra One firmware version 4.0.
The demonstration showcases the powerful capabilities of the mighty Rhodes Chroma. I intentionally made the Patch Algorithm parameter part of the sound morphing to achieve more dramatic changes in the sound while morphing and randomizing."
Thursday, December 05, 2024
TMP-3-01 Vintage Synth TV Series from Benge
video upload by Memetune Studio
00:00 Opening Titles
00:17 Introduction
01:27 Switched On 80s
15:30 Little Black Boxes
20:13 Commercial Break
23:19 Synthesiser Club
27:08 Patching Today
40:16 Video Lab
46:25 Outro
"Episode one of the third series of the TV program from Benge, made at his Memetune Electronic Music Studio
The series explores his passion for vintage synthesiser instruments and studio gear and how he uses them in his productions and collaborations
////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
It is divided into the following sections:
SWITCHED ON 80s - This third series takes an in-depth look into six classic 80s synthesisers, selected because of their interesting and unique attributes
LITTLE BLACK BOXES - A further look at some classic rack mount studio gear of the 80s and 90s
SYNTHESISER CLUB - A short musical demonstration of a synthesiser classic or three, concentrating on 'families' of synths
COMMERCIAL BREAK - Some shameless Memetune shilling
PATCHING TODAY - A deep-dive into vintage modular systems and how to set up a patch on them, starting from scratch, this time using Cybersynthesis techniques to bring an element of surprise to the patches
VIDEO LAB - A look at old video equipment and how to create experimental visuals, concentrating on a specific device in each episode
////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
In THIS episode:
SWITCHED ON 80s - A detailed look at the Korg Monopoly from 1981, and Benge unveils his virtual 80s studio environment
LITTLE BLACK BOXES - A look at four of the first true Little Black Boxes - not synths, but early digital reverberation units: the AMS RMX16, Quantec Room Simulator, Yamaha REV1 and the Lexicon Model 200
SYNTHESISER CLUB - Today, it's the Kawai Klub - the K4 synth, R-50 drum machine, Q-80 sequencer and K1m desktop synth. The drum machine and sequencer were very kindly donated to Memetune by a generous viewer called Alex 💕
COMMERCIAL BREAK - Some adverts for Memetune-related goodies, including the new Memetune Annual 2024, a Benge album on vinyl, and the range of Memetune merchandise
PATCHING TODAY - on the Serge Paperface system, and a modern recreation of the CGS Gated Comparator in Serge format made by Loudest Warning
VIDEO LAB - In this episode we take a deep dive into the legendary Panasonic MJ-MX50 Production Mixer from the mid-1980s
////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
LINKS:
Benge's Studio Blog: http://myblogitsfullofstars.blogspot.com
Memetune Studio Instagram: @memetunestudio
Benge & Memetune Merch on Bandcamp: https://zackdagoba.bandcamp.com
////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
The MemeTune Programme Credits:
Everything in this video was created by B D Edwards (Benge)
All music, design, writing, filming and production completed at Memetune Studios, UK, 2024"
Retroaktiv Rhodes Chroma Polyphonic Aftertouch Demo
Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
video upload by Retroaktiv Synthesizers
"Playing a Rhodes Chroma with the Retroaktiv Polyphonic Aftertouch Retrofit installed. For more info, visit www.retroaktivsynthesizers.com"
Found the above video from 2017 in the following listing.
via this listing
"It is in great shape, and the wood is nearly flawless. The metal and tolex are also in great shape. It's got the CC+ CPU board upgrade, MIDI and polyphponic aftertouch. The unit has had the following work done:
Luca Sasdelli Switching Power Supply installed. (Replaces original PSU, which was underpowered)
Retroaktiv Polyphonic Aftertouch installed. Can also transmit this via MIDI to control other devices that support poly aftertouch.
CC+ CPU upgrade installed, allowing for CC control of parameters, extra memory, and more.
Other information:
One of the segments is out on the large 2-digit segment display (Which shows the current program selected). One segment is out on the 8-character mini-7-segment screen. Both of these segments are so minor that I have never been affected by them. One of the voice cards is currently coming up with an error. I am willing to replace the card before shipping the instrument. If I haven't played the Chroma for a month, certain keys will need to be exercised a few times in order to work. This is due to the leaf switches used on these. They're the same as the ones on the K250. I have never seen a keyboard that uses these that did not exhibit this behavior.
There is s small dent in the front panel near the Chroma logo. Hardly noticeable.
Voice 6 is currently throwing an error code."
video upload by Retroaktiv Synthesizers
"Playing a Rhodes Chroma with the Retroaktiv Polyphonic Aftertouch Retrofit installed. For more info, visit www.retroaktivsynthesizers.com"
Found the above video from 2017 in the following listing.
via this listing

Luca Sasdelli Switching Power Supply installed. (Replaces original PSU, which was underpowered)
Retroaktiv Polyphonic Aftertouch installed. Can also transmit this via MIDI to control other devices that support poly aftertouch.
CC+ CPU upgrade installed, allowing for CC control of parameters, extra memory, and more.
Other information:
One of the segments is out on the large 2-digit segment display (Which shows the current program selected). One segment is out on the 8-character mini-7-segment screen. Both of these segments are so minor that I have never been affected by them. One of the voice cards is currently coming up with an error. I am willing to replace the card before shipping the instrument. If I haven't played the Chroma for a month, certain keys will need to be exercised a few times in order to work. This is due to the leaf switches used on these. They're the same as the ones on the K250. I have never seen a keyboard that uses these that did not exhibit this behavior.
There is s small dent in the front panel near the Chroma logo. Hardly noticeable.
Voice 6 is currently throwing an error code."
Monday, November 25, 2024
FENDER CHROMA POLARIS - RESTORED BY SYNTH TAILOR ELECTRONICS
video upload by Synth Tailor Electronics
"Fender Chroma Polaris six voice synthesizer restored and repaired by Synth Tailor Electronics in Columbus, Ohio. If you have a broken Chroma Polaris or any vintage synthesizer, drum machine, outboard gear, or rare obscure gear that needs repaired/restored, please reach out on our website contact form or email.
The Fender Chroma Polaris is an interesting synth, made by CBS Fender after they took over ARP instruments. It was marketed as a smaller hybrid version of the Rhodes Chroma, and featured more slide potentiometers with the same style membrane buttons as the Rhodes Chroma. The synth has a remarkably pleasant sound and features dual oscillators, dual envelope generators, a smooth analog filter, and generous modulation routings.
The membrane buttons are less than reliable, and along with its rather heavy weight, probably kept the Polaris from gaining wide spread popularity.
It features Curtis Electromusic Specialties chips (CEM3372, CEM3374) which is found on other vintage synthesizers from that era including: Akai AX80/VX600, Oberheim Xpander/Matrix 12, Sequential Prophet 600/Prophet T8, and Simmons Drums."
Tuesday, October 15, 2024
Rare Rhodes Chroma Manuals From 1982
Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
via this Vemia listing
Click the auction link on top when you get there for additional listings.
"For sale are the Rhodes Chroma Performancer Manual and Rhodes Chroma Programming Manual.This is your chance to own this hard to find Manuals from 1982. This is a must-have for any vintage synthesizer collector as these are getting very hard/impossible to find these days. These Manuals have no highlighting or underlining in it. These Manuals are in very good condition, see the picture's for more detail."
via this Vemia listing
Click the auction link on top when you get there for additional listings.
"For sale are the Rhodes Chroma Performancer Manual and Rhodes Chroma Programming Manual.This is your chance to own this hard to find Manuals from 1982. This is a must-have for any vintage synthesizer collector as these are getting very hard/impossible to find these days. These Manuals have no highlighting or underlining in it. These Manuals are in very good condition, see the picture's for more detail."
Friday, October 11, 2024
Rhodes Chroma to Computer Interface PCBrd
Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
via this Vemia listing
See the site's other listings for more. You can find listings by category here
"Here is an extremely rare 'Chroma to Computer Interface PCBoard'. I believe it needs the 'Chroma to Computer Interface' to work which I am also selling in this Vemia. Not tested so no idea if it works or not but it's like new and in case there are issues they should be minimal. More details here : https://www.rhodeschroma.com/?id=computerinterfacehardware Rhodes Chroma rarities I am selling in Vemia : - Chroma to Computer Interface - Chroma tapper - Roland MIF-APL 291-894 board."
via this Vemia listing
See the site's other listings for more. You can find listings by category here
"Here is an extremely rare 'Chroma to Computer Interface PCBoard'. I believe it needs the 'Chroma to Computer Interface' to work which I am also selling in this Vemia. Not tested so no idea if it works or not but it's like new and in case there are issues they should be minimal. More details here : https://www.rhodeschroma.com/?id=computerinterfacehardware Rhodes Chroma rarities I am selling in Vemia : - Chroma to Computer Interface - Chroma tapper - Roland MIF-APL 291-894 board."
Rhodes Chroma to Computer Interface
Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
via this Vemia listing
See the site's other listings for more. You can find listings by category here
"Here is an extremely rare 'Chroma to Computer Interface'. I believe it needs the 'Chroma to Computer Interface PCBoard' to work which I am also selling here. Not tested so no idea if it works or not but it's like new and in case there are issues they should be minimal. Rhodes Chroma rarities I am selling in this Vemia : - Chroma to Computer Interface PCBoard - Roland MIF-APL 291-894 board."
via this Vemia listing
See the site's other listings for more. You can find listings by category here
"Here is an extremely rare 'Chroma to Computer Interface'. I believe it needs the 'Chroma to Computer Interface PCBoard' to work which I am also selling here. Not tested so no idea if it works or not but it's like new and in case there are issues they should be minimal. Rhodes Chroma rarities I am selling in this Vemia : - Chroma to Computer Interface PCBoard - Roland MIF-APL 291-894 board."
Thursday, October 10, 2024
Rhodes Chroma 64-Key 16-Voice Polyphonic Analog Synthesizer
Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
via this listing
"Rhodes chroma all original and in perfect working conditions.
Only 3000 made and don’t know how many have made it to these days"
via this listing
"Rhodes chroma all original and in perfect working conditions.
Only 3000 made and don’t know how many have made it to these days"
Thursday, October 03, 2024
Rhodes Chroma Polaris SN 100052
Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
via this listing
"- great condition overall
- fully serviced
- new membrane panel, so very responsive
- new tuning capacitor, so no more drifting out of tune, as very common with the Polaris
- new rebuilt power supply"
via this listing
"- great condition overall
- fully serviced
- new membrane panel, so very responsive
- new tuning capacitor, so no more drifting out of tune, as very common with the Polaris
- new rebuilt power supply"
Thursday, September 26, 2024
Rhodes Chroma w/ Enabler SN 016 & Pedals
Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
via this listing
"Your chance to own one of the most sought after analog synths of all time along with the custom-built “Enabler” controller manufactured by Randel Osborne.
Both were purchased directly from Mr. Osborne who described this particular Chroma as cosmetically and functionally one of the nicest he’d ever come across. The Enabler took two years to receive due to the extensive waiting list for this boutique unit.
The Chroma sounds MASSIVE and The Enabler allows the user to in real-time access endless layers of functionality buried by the synth’s original designers.
Comes with the original double sustain pedal, volume pedal, a bespoke interface used to connect the Enabler and an ATA style, heavy duty flightcase.
The only thing keeping me from listing this Chroma as “excellent“ is an error with voice board #5(limiting the synth to 14 voices (still sounds amazing), a burnt out “pixel” in the Chroma’s numerical display (does not affect functionality) and a dark LED screen on the Enabler (which also doesn’t affect functionality). In any event these should be simple fixes and these issues are already reflected in the lower than normal asking price. All buttons/sliders/keys functions as they should.
Due to the delicate nature of the synth it is available for local pick up only in the northeast for now. If it isn’t sold after a while I’ll open it up to shipping although I doubt it will not sell quickly as I’ll be entertaining all serious offers."
via this listing

Both were purchased directly from Mr. Osborne who described this particular Chroma as cosmetically and functionally one of the nicest he’d ever come across. The Enabler took two years to receive due to the extensive waiting list for this boutique unit.
The Chroma sounds MASSIVE and The Enabler allows the user to in real-time access endless layers of functionality buried by the synth’s original designers.
Comes with the original double sustain pedal, volume pedal, a bespoke interface used to connect the Enabler and an ATA style, heavy duty flightcase.
The only thing keeping me from listing this Chroma as “excellent“ is an error with voice board #5(limiting the synth to 14 voices (still sounds amazing), a burnt out “pixel” in the Chroma’s numerical display (does not affect functionality) and a dark LED screen on the Enabler (which also doesn’t affect functionality). In any event these should be simple fixes and these issues are already reflected in the lower than normal asking price. All buttons/sliders/keys functions as they should.
Due to the delicate nature of the synth it is available for local pick up only in the northeast for now. If it isn’t sold after a while I’ll open it up to shipping although I doubt it will not sell quickly as I’ll be entertaining all serious offers."
Tuesday, September 03, 2024
Rhodes Chroma 64-Key 16-Voice Polyphonic Analog Synthesizer
Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
via this listing
Pics of the inside below.
If you plan to own a Rhodes Chroma, be sure to check out the excellent https://www.rhodeschroma.com.
"Powers on and has some sound output but reads error message 4 on LCD screen. The rest of functions are untested. Has the Syntech Midi upgrade. Please examine pictures carefully. Comes with original Anvil custom case."
See here for error codes. Err 4 likely means an issue with voice board 4, aka dual channel board 4.
Note there was a CC+ midi upgrade as well. You can find info on it here. You can find info on the Syntech Midi upgrade on this Chroma here.
via this listing
Pics of the inside below.
If you plan to own a Rhodes Chroma, be sure to check out the excellent https://www.rhodeschroma.com.
"Powers on and has some sound output but reads error message 4 on LCD screen. The rest of functions are untested. Has the Syntech Midi upgrade. Please examine pictures carefully. Comes with original Anvil custom case."
See here for error codes. Err 4 likely means an issue with voice board 4, aka dual channel board 4.
Note there was a CC+ midi upgrade as well. You can find info on it here. You can find info on the Syntech Midi upgrade on this Chroma here.
Monday, September 02, 2024
Cherry Audio Chroma - "Possible Future" Soundset
video upload by LFOstore
"Vintage Treassure & one of the most interesting Poly Synths by Arp re-created by Cherry Audio - Chroma is here!
BUY: https://lfo.sellfy.store/p/cherry-aud...
Chroma having wide pallete of sounds : from classic analog tones through cinematic landscapes to modular & spacey patterns.
"Possible Future" soundset conitans 61 organic preset:
Big Authentic Strings
Space Pads
Wdge Plucks
Deep Basses
Cutting Leads
Massive Poly's
Modular Sounds
By Nick Klimenko aka Chronos, a creator of 'Organica' for Waldorf Blofeld & 'WS Universe' for Korg Wavestation.
From Cinematic Soundtrack through Synthwave & Ambient tracks to modern electronica - all is here.
All instructions included in the pack
Touch the Legend with our "Possible Future" Soundset!"
Thursday, August 29, 2024
Analogue Synthesiser Melodies | The Art of Production: Olof Dreijer
video upload by Resident Advisor
An interview with Olof Dreijer of The knife.
"Few do melodic electronics like Olof Dreijer.
No matter which part of the Swedish producer's broad catalogue you dip into—from The Knife to Oni Ayhun—you can always make out that knack for resplendent melodies, achieved using vintage analogue synthesisers such as the Oberheim Xpander and the Chroma Polaris.
Read the full feature here: https://ra.co/features/4367
Producer: Sophie Misrahi
Director of Photography: William Engström
Assistant Producer & Editor: Guy Clarke"
Envelopes | The Art of Production: Olof Driejer
video upload by Resident Advisor
"Envelopes play an essential role in Olof Dreijer's expressive, synth-heavy sound.
Dreijer demonstrates how he uses envelopes—a cycle of attack, decay, sustain and release—to emulate acoustic instruments. 'I like it when music has a mix of soft envelopes and slow attacks, and then very fast, more percussive things,' he says."
Saturday, June 15, 2024
Chroma Multi-Lane Filter Modulation
video upload by Dome Music Technologies
"This patch uses the Misfit Audio Drum Sequencer and the Poly Pressure Encoder to play different rhythmical patterns to each voice of the Cherry Chroma."
Monday, June 10, 2024
Rhodes Chroma 64-Key 16-Voice Polyphonic Analog Synthesizer
Thursday, May 30, 2024
Arp Rhodes Chroma Keyboard Expander Dual Channel Voice Boards
Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
via these listings
Additional Retro Gear Shop Listings
"Rare vintage spare Dual Channel Bd circuit board Assy-7225601 Fab 30-5422801 for your Arp Rhodes Chroma Keyboard or Expander. Previous tech notes it was tested and working in 2015, but I have not tested it as I no longer have any Chroma keyboards to test with, so this is sold as-is with no guarantees, for parts/repairs. Very useful if you have a Chroma you need to restore and looking for this piece. We have many other rare Rhodes Chroma parts for sale, please check out our other listings."
Note the white board below is a Rev 3 board: "Assy-7225601 Fab 30-5422801 Rev 3"
via these listings
Additional Retro Gear Shop Listings
"Rare vintage spare Dual Channel Bd circuit board Assy-7225601 Fab 30-5422801 for your Arp Rhodes Chroma Keyboard or Expander. Previous tech notes it was tested and working in 2015, but I have not tested it as I no longer have any Chroma keyboards to test with, so this is sold as-is with no guarantees, for parts/repairs. Very useful if you have a Chroma you need to restore and looking for this piece. We have many other rare Rhodes Chroma parts for sale, please check out our other listings."
Note the white board below is a Rev 3 board: "Assy-7225601 Fab 30-5422801 Rev 3"
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© Matrixsynth - All posts are presented here for informative, historical and educative purposes as applicable within fair use.
MATRIXSYNTH is supported by affiliate links that use cookies to track clickthroughs and sales. See the privacy policy for details.
MATRIXSYNTH - EVERYTHING SYNTH