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.

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.

Legacy of the SH-Series

SH-MAX is Cherry Audio's tribute to the SH series of analog synthesizers, and models the sounds and features of:

SH-3A (1975) - The manufacturer's first non-preset synth, one that offers both subtractive and additive synthesis techniques, mixing up to five different waveforms via footages. Famous for its Moog-like filter, dual oscillators, and ring modulator. Often recognized as a precursor to the popular SH-101 and SH-09 synthesizers.

SH-5 (1976) - A monster monosynth, known for its flexible routing and a parallel bandpass filter. Two VCOs with saw, pulse, square, and triangle waveforms, featuring sync, PWM, and ring modulation. Features a resonant multimode filter (lowpass, bandpass, and highpass) plus an additional, independent resonant band-pass filter. Audio can be routed through these in series or parallel. Its 5-channel mixer allows independent routing of VCO1, VCO2, noise, ring mod, and external inputs to different filter paths or straight to the VCA.

SH-7 (1978) - This duophonic synthesizer is evolved from the SH-5 and features autobend and VCO-to-Filter FM. It includes two VCOs with triangle, sawtooth, pulse, and PWM waveforms, and VCO1 has a unique "multi-osc" section for sub-oscillators and custom wave shapes. Additional features include a five-source mixer, ring modulator, white/pink noise generator, and oscillator sync. It has a built-in sample-and-hold circuit for random modulation effects, along with 12dB/octave high-pass and low-pass filters with resonance. Modulation options are available from the LFO, sample-and-hold circuit, and envelope follower.

We drew inspiration from the expressive "touch effect" capabilities of the SH-2000 (1973) and the classic sequencer of the System 100 (1975) Model 104 sequencer.

The SH-series synthesizers have been used by a diverse range of artists, including Kraftwerk, Tangerine Dream, Jean-Michel Jarre, Brian Eno, Gary Numan, Mike Oldfield, Throbbing Gristle (Chris Carter), Skinny Puppy, Coil, Aphex Twin, Autechre, Orbital, Mathew Jonson, Pink Floyd, Nine Inch Nails, Kitaro, INXS, MGMT, Vangelis, The Human League, Blondie, and Yello.

SH-MAX builds upon and enhances this mighty lineage by leveraging the strengths of software, making the entire experience accessible within a modern production environment. Play it as a classic mono or duophonic synthesizer, create layered sounds for earthshaking unison, or employ 16 voices of polyphony to produce rich chords that are just as impactful as its bass lines and leads. The Touch Effects panel features four assignable controls and supports polyphonic aftertouch, offering expressive performance capabilities that go beyond what was possible in the 1970s. SH-MAX also includes a four-channel step sequencer capable of running patterns of up to 16 steps in parallel or chaining them in 32 or 64-step cycles. And producers can get started immediately with over 300 presets that take full advantage of these features, designed to inspire.

Cherry Audio's SH-MAX is more than a software emulation of a single classic analog synth or even three of them. It's the fantastic fusion of a pioneering series of synthesis instruments that bridges over 50 years of electronic music innovation with the essential tools and sounds desired for today's modern music production.

Cherry Audio has once again collaborated with Tim Shoebridge to create a comprehensive introductory video for SH-MAX. This in-depth exploration highlights its key features, including the three distinguishing oscillators, its distinctive parallel filters, extensive modulation capabilities, envelope and looping options, and the four-channel step sequencer.