PS-3300 Synthesizer

Description

Overview

The PS-3300 Synthesizer by Cherry Audio is an exactingly faithful virtual analog emulation of the colossal and ultra-rare semi-modular polyphonic synthesizer originally released by Korg in 1977. Known as a “giant Japanese monster,” the original hardware was one of the most expensive and rare instruments of its era, with only approximately 50 units ever produced. This software recreation captures the massive stacked sonic character and the signature multiple-resonator sweeps that made the original a legendary “holy grail” for collectors and professional musicians.

The PS-3300 distinguishes itself through a unique architecture featuring three independent signal generator panels. Each panel functions as a complete polyphonic synthesizer, providing an immense amount of sonic flexibility and depth. By combining these panels, users can achieve a broad, bold sound often described as an “orchestra of synthesizers,” capable of producing the fat, evolving timbres that impressed industry pioneers like Bob Moog.

Key Details

• Triple Signal Generators: Three independent panels, each featuring its own oscillator, lowpass filter, and amp.
• Versatile Waveforms: VCOs offering six waveforms: triangle, saw, rectangle (square), two preset pulse waves, and PWM (variable-width pulse).
• Advanced Resonators: Three modulatable 12 dB/oct bandpass filters per generator to create distinct vowel and phasing tones.
• Precision Modulation: Three discrete ADSR-type envelope modulators with velocity control and amplitude modulation.
• Dual LFOs: Two syncable mod generators per panel; one featuring triangle, saw, ramp, rectangle, pink noise, and white noise, and a second triangle waveform.
• Custom Temperament: Individual tuning knobs for all 12 chromatic notes with presets for Equal Tempered, Mean Tone System, Hepatonal System, and Just Intonation.
• Semi-Modular Routing: Extensive patching capabilities that recreate the original’s 67 front-panel input/output jacks.
• Polyphonic Power: Full polyphonic articulation across the keyboard, mirroring the original’s independent discrete VCFs and VCAs for every note.

Use Cases

The PS-3300 is ideal for producers and composers seeking cinematic, evolving soundscapes and rich analog textures. Its ability to stack three independent synth engines makes it perfect for creating massive lead sounds, complex pads, and orchestral-style synth arrangements. It is particularly well-suited for genres such as Berlin School electronic music, Ambient, Synthwave, and Progressive Rock, echoing the legendary work of artists like Vangelis, Jean-Michel Jarre, and Kraftwerk.

Installation

As a virtual instrument, the PS-3300 is delivered as a digital download. After purchase, users should download the installer compatible with their operating system. Follow the on-screen prompts to install the plugin files into the designated VST, AU, or AAX folders on your system. Once installed, scan for new plugins within your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) to activate the synthesizer.

Compatibility

• Supported Operating Systems: Windows, macOS
• RAM: 4GB RAM
• Disk Space: 500MB Hard Drive Space
• Plugin Formats: VST, AU, AAX