Cherry Audio – SH-MAX v1.0.4.52 for WiN

SH-MAX is a unique combination of Cherry Audio’s three outstanding SH series synthesizers from the 1970s: the SH-5, SH-7, and SH-3A. But SH-MAX is far from the first software emulation of these classic instruments. We’ve taken the undeniably bold sound of the SH-5, combined it with the best features of other models, and added even more power and versatility. With confident tone, versatility, and a stunning interface, the SH-MAX promises to transform your studio experience, putting synth power right at your fingertips.

5-star rating from MusicRadar! “The SH-MAX shook the floorboards in the MR towers, and it’s hard to overstate how good it sounds. It’s deep and detailed, with a unique sense of warmth that could be mistaken for true analog. The SH-MAX offers power, warmth, charm, and usability in a very convincing virtual analog reproduction with real heart and soul.

Be sure to install (if you don’t already have it) – TEAM R2R Network Block Runtime (Tested Runtime Version: v2.3.0) (attached)

Peculiarities

• A software virtual instrument plug-in based on the sound and features of the SH-5, SH-7, and SH-3A synthesizers from the 1970s.
• A software virtual instrument plug-in based on the sound and features of the SH-5, SH-7, and SH-3A synthesizers from the 1970s.
• Highly optimized voice architecture with monophonic, duophonic, unison and 16-voice polyphonic modes
• Five sound sources: VCO-1, VCO-2A, VCO-2B, ring modulator and noise
• Two parallel filters: multi-mode with low-pass, band-pass and high-pass, as well as a separate dedicated band-pass filter
• Two syncable LFOs with retrigger capability
• Sample/Hold, Ring Modulator, Auto Bend, Vibrato and Portamento
• Two full ADSR envelopes per layer with velocity and loop options
• Flexible signal path options allow audio to be routed individually to one or both filters, or bypassed directly to the VCA
• Adjustable VCO, VCF and VCA drift, as well as EG slop for a more analog feel
• Over 300 professionally designed presets in 14 categories
• Comprehensive SH-2000-inspired touch-sensitive effects with four slots and simple assignment function, with 47 assignable channels or polyphonic aftertouch with compatible controllers
• Syncable, transposable, and chainable step sequencer (four channels, up to 16 steps each), inspired by the Model 104, with start, stop, audition, and humanization options, precise DAW and step sync, and MIDI out to compatible DAWs
• Four independent, customizable effects chains, one for each of the three signal paths plus a global layer with a separate effects modulator for each layer
• 20 studio effects that can be arranged, saved, and recalled in your effects chains, interchangeable with Cherry Audio Trident and Mercury-8 synthesizers:
• BBD Flanger, Compressor, Digital Delay, Digital Reverb, Distortion & EQ, Dual Delay, Dual Ensemble, Dual Phaser, Envelope Filter, Flanger & Chorus, Galactic Reverb, Lo-Fi, Lushverb, Ring Modulator, Sevenband EQ, Spring Reverb, Tape Echo, DCO Chorus, Panner and Pulser
• Permanent effects: Quick controls for on/off, solo, bipolar modulator, amount slider, and dry/wet mix for each effect. Global effects on/off, leveling, and stereo widening
• Includes separate virtual instruments and plugins
• User adjustable oversampling control
• Full MIDI control and DAW automation for all controls with easy-to-use MIDI learn and mapping (preset and global)
• Cherry Audio’s popular Focus Zoom feature, along with standard drag-and-drop UI zooming and resizing
• Full documentation is available directly online from the tool or in PDF format for download.

Possibilities

The SH-MAX replicates the vibrant sounds and core features of the SH-5, including powerful dual oscillators, two LFOs, impressive parallel filters (multimode and bandpass), a ring modulator, and sample and hold functions. We then augmented it with SH-7 elements such as autobend, duophonics, an FM filter, and syncable VCOs with additional waveforms. 

We also incorporated the additive oscillator from the SH-3A for greater flexibility. We also added a touch of SH-2000-inspired expressiveness, as well as a classic sequencer inspired by the Model 104. To top it all off, we included three retro interface themes, each reflecting the unique aesthetics of the SH-3A, SH-5, and SH-7.

What really stands out about the SH-MAX is the unique personality of its filters, which quickly transform warm analog tones into aggressive sounds. It excels at creating raw, powerful tones that cut through a mix without the need for additional effects (though they are included). We’ve also added optional drift and layer controls for the oscillators, filters, amp, and dual envelope generators to add additional analog ambience.

The powerful SH-style mixer now includes stereo functionality and offers signal routing options comparable to modular synthesizers. Each source—VCO-1, VCO-2A, VCO-2B, Ring Mod, and Noise—is independently routed to a voltage-controlled filter (VCF), bandpass filter (BPF), or voltage-controlled amplifier (VCA), each with its own independent effects chain. The SH-MAX includes 20 studio-quality effects that can be arranged and reused across four effects chains.