As a producer and electronic music fan, I’ve always had a fascination with the iconic drum machines that shaped the music of the 70s and 80s. Those robotic, cheesy yet fascinating rhythms and synthetic tones capture my imagination and inspire me to create retro-flavored tracks.
So when Cherry Audio announced their new virtual recreation of the Roland CR-78, I was beyond excited. This quirky analog beatbox is a true legend, used by John Foxx, Blondie, Genesis, The Cars, and more (alright, Phil Collins too). But obtaining an original unit is near impossible for us mortals.
Cherry Audio’s software version changes all that, putting the CR-78’s distinctive percussion sounds at my fingertips.
The plugin (also available in standalone format, yay!) accurately captures the character of the original, with the same 34 preset rhythms and authentic modeling of the bass drum, snare, rimshot, cowbell, claves, and other iconic sounds. No samples were used – the tones were recreated through component-level modeling for unprecedented realism.
Intuitive Step Sequencing and Effects
While faithfully recreating the original unit, Cherry Audio enhanced it in several ways. The original’s complex programming has been replaced with an intuitive X0X-style step sequencer, making pattern creation a breeze. Additionally, the plugin includes a song mode for chaining patterns, a feature that significantly expands its usability in contemporary music production. I was knocking out credible beats in minutes with the responsive real-time recording features.
The CR-78 also includes a full effects and mixing section, with per-instrument effects sends, overdrive (with tube and fuzz mode, get ready for some great fun there!), delay, reverb (with 4 modes, from spring to plate and more), compression, and a 6-band EQ for polishing your beats.
The effect section can radically alter the sounds of the original unit, easily bringing it into the 21st-century sonic territory! Check out this quick demo below to see how one of those innocent samba patterns can mutate into something Trent Reznor might probably like! (FYI: don’t ask me why the colors look funny, must have been a video conversion issue!).
Instrument Editing
After the initial honeymoon period, I began to explore deeper aspects like the instrument editing parameters. Tweaking the decay and tone of the cowbell and rimshot totally transformed them from robotic tones into more organic, living sounds. The effects section also enables rich sonic sculpting possibilities. I created some absolutely wicked industrial patterns by mangling instruments with the overdrive and delay effects.
The preset library showcases the instrument’s versatility across genres too. Many patches capture the CR-78’s vintage new wave vibe, but there are also hip hop, EDM, and experimental kits. Using multiple instances within my DAW, I constructed a complete track featuring different CR-78 grooves. The drag-and-drop MIDI export made this a breeze.
Plugin or Standalone Use
The CR-78 can be used as an instrument plugin in all major DAWs, with full automation of every parameter. It also works in standalone mode for quick jamming or live use. The interface has been thoughtfully designed for usability and includes a useful zoom view.
Pricing And Availability
At its introductory price of $49 (regular $69), Cherry Audio’s CR-78 provides incredible value. If you produce any style of electronic music, from synthpop to hip hop, it’s a great way to add iconic analog-style percussion to your tracks. Try out the free 30-day demo and hear for yourself! For more details, visit the Cherry Audio website.
Cherry Audio CR-78 – Final Thoughts
The Cherry Audio CR-78 is a testament to the enduring appeal of vintage sounds, brought into the modern era with thoughtful enhancements and a user-friendly interface. This one-of-a-kind beatbox is sure to inspire my productions for years to come!
If you’ve ever dismissed the CR-78 as merely a glorified metronome, it’s time to reconsider!
