Cherry Audio PS-3300 is a virtual analog synthesizer plugin that meticulously emulates the legendary Korg PS-3300, a rare and coveted polyphonic synthesizer from 1977. This software recreation brings the massive sound and complex architecture of the original hardware to the digital realm, making it accessible to a wide range of musicians and producers. The PS-3300 plugin replicates the original’s three independent signal generator panels, each functioning as a complete polyphonic synthesizer with six-waveform oscillators, dual LFOs, filters, envelopes, and amplifiers. It also includes the master panel with its mixer, sample and hold, and additional modulation options. Cherry Audio has expanded upon the original design, adding modern features like tempo sync, multiple filter types, and integrated effects while maintaining the authentic sound and character of the hardware. With its extensive patching capabilities and unique triple-resonator design, the PS-3300 plugin offers a vast sonic palette capable of producing everything from lush pads and sweeping textures to aggressive leads and thunderous basses.
Pros:
• Faithful recreation of an extremely rare and expensive hardware synthesizer
• Expanded feature set with modern conveniences like tempo sync and integrated effects
• Extensive patching capabilities with virtual cables and unlimited connections per jack
• High-quality presets designed by professional sound designers
• Affordable price point compared to other virtual analog synths
Cons:
• Complex interface may be intimidating for beginners
• High CPU usage due to the plugin’s complexity
The Cherry Audio PS-3300 plugin is a powerhouse of synthesis, offering a wealth of features that both replicate and expand upon the original hardware. At its core are three identical polyphonic synthesizer panels, each containing a full complement of synthesis modules. These include six-waveform oscillators capable of producing sine, triangle, sawtooth, square, and two pulse waves. The oscillators feed into a pair of modulation generators (LFOs) for vibrato and other cyclical effects, followed by a dynamic lowpass filter that can be switched between PS-style (24 dB/oct) and MS-style (12 dB/oct) responses.
Each panel also includes envelope generators and amplifiers for shaping the sound over time, as well as a distinctive triple-peak resonator. This unique feature allows for the creation of formant-like tones and otherworldly timbres not possible with traditional filters. The independent per-note “temperament” tuning knobs from the original hardware are faithfully reproduced, allowing for microtuning and the creation of unusual scales.
The master panel houses a signal mixer for blending the outputs of the three synthesizer panels, along with a sample and hold module and a general-purpose envelope generator. Cherry Audio has expanded this section with continuously variable CV control over level and panning for each channel, as well as global pitch bend range adjustment.
One of the most powerful aspects of the PS-3300 is its extensive patching system. The plugin replicates the original’s numerous input and output jacks, allowing for complex signal routing and modulation. Cherry Audio has enhanced this feature by providing unlimited virtual cables per jack and the ability to create mult connections, greatly expanding the modulation possibilities.
Modern additions include tempo-syncable LFOs and envelopes, copy and paste functionality between panels, and a set of high-quality studio effects including chorus, delay, and reverb. The plugin also features Cherry Audio’s Focus zoom-in feature, allowing users to magnify specific areas of the interface for detailed editing. The PS-3300 comes with over 360 professionally designed presets, showcasing the instrument’s versatility. These presets cover a wide range of sounds from classic analog tones to evolving textures and experimental soundscapes. The plugin also supports MIDI learn functionality for easy mapping of hardware controllers.
This plugin is best for:
• Producers and composers seeking authentic vintage analog sounds
• Sound designers looking for a deep, patchable synthesizer for creating unique timbres
• Electronic musicians interested in recreating classic synth tones from the late 70s and early 80s
• Experimental artists exploring complex modulation and unconventional sound design
• Studios wanting a high-quality polyphonic synthesizer without the cost and maintenance of vintage hardware
Cherry Audio PS-3300 plugin is an impressive achievement in virtual analog synthesis, offering an incredibly detailed recreation of a legendary and nearly unobtainable hardware synthesizer. Its ability to capture the massive, orchestral sound of the original Korg PS-3300 while adding modern conveniences makes it a valuable tool for a wide range of music production scenarios. The plugin’s extensive patching capabilities and unique features like the triple-resonator provide sound designers with a vast playground for sonic exploration. While the complex interface may present a learning curve for some users, those willing to invest the time will be rewarded with an instrument capable of producing rich, evolving textures, powerful leads, and distinctive analog tones. The affordable price point, especially considering the rarity and cost of the original hardware, makes the PS-3300 an attractive option for both professional studios and home producers. Despite potential CPU demands, the plugin’s sound quality and flexibility justify its resource usage for those seeking top-tier analog emulation. Overall, the Cherry Audio PS-3300 stands out as a lovingly crafted homage to a synthesizer icon, successfully bringing its unique character and capabilities to a new generation of musicians.