Cherry Audio Unveils Mercury-8, the Ultimate Emulation of the Legendary Jupiter-8
Cherry Audio has announced the launch of Mercury-8, an innovative software synthesizer that faithfully replicates the iconic Jupiter-8 from 1981. Available now for just $69, this "Ultimate Eight" combines the authentic sound of the legendary hardware with new features that enhance its creative possibilities for modern music producers and synthesizer enthusiasts.
Mercury-8 synthesizer utilizes advanced circuit and behavioral modeling to achieve unparalleled sonic accuracy. Unlike sample-based emulators, Mercury-8 utilizes virtual analog synthesis, offering comprehensive, dynamic control over all synthesis parameters while remaining compact.
Its dual-layer architecture allows for 16 polyphonic voices per layer, enabling musicians to easily create complex, evolving soundscapes through powerful split and stacked modes. Additionally, the synthesizer includes authentic analog drift and condition controls, allowing sound designers and players to fine-tune the instrument's character, from pristine and modern to beautifully unstable and vintage. Mercury-8 not only captures the unique sound and essence of the JP-8 but also supports data exchange with MIDI-modified hardware.
The instrument goes beyond simple emulation, featuring an extensive array of tools designed for modern production workflows. It offers a comprehensive modulation matrix, a syncable arpeggiator, and a programmable 16x4 polyphonic step sequencer. Mercury-8 also includes three independent, customizable effect chains, each equipped with 20 studio-quality effects, including the new DCO Chorus, Panner, and Pulser effects. Its unique architecture enables direct import and export of original JP-8 patch bank SysEx data, effectively bridging the gap between vintage hardware and contemporary software.
With more than 600 professionally designed presets, including precise recreations of the original JP-8 factory patches, users can start creating music right away. Additionally, for those seeking extra inspiration, The Grid Preset Pack by renowned producer Michael Oakley is exclusively available from Cherry Audio for $9.99. Featuring lush pads, dynamic arpeggios, and sequences that showcase the full potential of Mercury-8, this pack includes 100 additional presets inspired by the synthwave genre.
Mercury-8 also highlights Cherry Audio's ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional sound at an unbeatable price. Priced at just $69, Mercury-8 is an ideal choice for synth enthusiasts who seek outstanding performance, features, and affordability. Additionally, until December 1st at cherryaudio.com, customers can take advantage of Cherry Audio's Build Your Own Bundle promotion. They can select the Pick 3 bundle for $99 (regularly $129) or the Pick 6 bundle for $149 (regularly $169), allowing them to mix and match any of Cherry Audio's award-winning instruments for as low as $25 per plugin.
Mercury-8 is also available as part of Cherry Audio's new Synth Stack 6 collection, which bundles 36 of their acclaimed plugins at an affordable price. Synth Stack now includes 28 emulations of vintage synthesizers, three original synthesizers, two legendary drum machines, an electric piano, a tonewheel organ, and a massive modular synthesizer platform, along with over 12,000 professionally designed presets. The total retail value of these instruments is $1,687, but the entire collection is available for an incredible $599. And for those who have already purchased one or more of the individual products, including any previous versions of Synth Stack, additional discounts are applied at the Cherry Audio store.
Cherry Audio's Mercury-8 synthesizer is available for macOS (10.13 and later) and Windows (7 and later) in AU, VST, VST3, AAX, and standalone formats. A free 30-day demo is available. Visit cherryaudio.com for additional product details, a deep-dive introductory video, system requirements, and an extensive collection of awe-inspiring sound demos.