Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated .
Price History
Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Applied Acoustics Systems Chromaphone 3 + PACKS". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
Discover a realm of sonic possibilities with the Applied Acoustics Systems Chromaphone 3 + PACKS, an innovative music software plugin that redefines acoustic synthesis. This two-voice synthesizer merges the organic resonance of eight meticulously modeled acoustic resonators, creating a unique palette of sounds that spans the spectrum from delicate melodies to thunderous rhythms. Chromaphone 3 is your gateway to crafting music with a distinctive edge, offering over 1000 expertly designed sounds that leverage its cutting-edge acoustic object synthesis.
With its intuitive new Home view, Chromaphone 3 allows musicians to explore soundscapes effortlessly through streamlined browsing and tweaking. Its versatile two-part multitimbral feature lets you stack or split timbres for performance-ready, spacious sounds. The comprehensive factory library, crafted by top-tier sound designers, provides an extensive resource of inspiring presets, setting the stage for boundless creativity.
The plugin’s robust capabilities are further enhanced by its expanded multi-effects module, featuring a reverb, equalizer, compressor, and more, enabling you to sculpt your sound with precision. Chromaphone 3's compatibility with Scala scale files also unlocks new frontiers in microtonal music-making, inviting you to experiment with a world of alternate tunings.
Whether you’re a seasoned composer or an experimental sound artist, Chromaphone 3 + PACKS offers a universe of textures and timbres waiting to be explored. Dive into the sonic depths and discover your next muse with this unparalleled acoustic synthesizer.
Key Features:
- Two-voice synthesizer with eight acoustic resonators
- Over 1000 factory sounds by top sound designers
- Two-part multitimbral: stacked or split
- New Home view for intuitive browsing and tweaking
- Expanded multi-effects module with reverb, equalizer, compressor, etc.
- Supports Scala scale files for microtonal music
- Compatible with Chromaphone 2 sounds
- Four performance macros per layer for dynamic sound shaping
Product specs
| Software Type | Synthesizer |
| Platform | Mac, PC |
| Upgrade/Full | Full |
| Download/Boxed | Download |
| Bit Depth | 64-bit |
| Format | Standalone, VST, AU, AAX Native, NKS |
| Hardware Requirements - Mac | Intel Core i5 5th Gen or later (M1 processor compatible), 4GB RAM or more recommended |
| Hardware Requirements - PC | Intel Core i5 5th Gen or later, 4GB RAM or more recommended |
| OS Requirements - Mac | OS X 10.11 or later |
| OS Requirements - PC | Windows 10 or later |
FAQs
-
What makes Chromaphone 3 different from other synthesizers?
-
Chromaphone 3 uses physical modeling to create sounds, allowing for a wide range of organic and expressive tones. It simulates acoustic resonators, providing a unique sound palette compared to traditional subtractive or FM synthesizers.
-
Is Chromaphone 3 compatible with my DAW?
-
Chromaphone 3 is compatible with major DAWs that support VST, AU, AAX Native, and NKS formats, making it versatile for integration into most digital audio workstations on both Mac and PC.
-
Can Chromaphone 3 be used as a standalone application?
-
Yes, Chromaphone 3 can operate as a standalone application, allowing you to use it independently of a DAW for live performance or sound design.
-
What are the system requirements for running Chromaphone 3 on a Mac?
-
Chromaphone 3 requires a Mac running OS X 10.11 or later, with an Intel Core i5 5th Gen or later processor, and at least 4GB of RAM. It is also compatible with M1 processors.
-
Does Chromaphone 3 come with additional sound packs?
-
Yes, Chromaphone 3 + PACKS includes additional sound packs, expanding its library with a variety of presets and timbres for more creative possibilities.
Videos
Applied Acoustics Systems
Introducing Chromaphone 3 acoustic object synthesizer plug-in—VST AU AAX NKS
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Applied Acoustics Systems Chromaphone 3 + PACKS.
Software and compatibility
-
Some users experience high CPU usage with Chromaphone 3, particularly in complex patches, though switching to ASIO4ALL drivers can improve performance.
Source -
While version 2 presented CPU challenges for some, version 3's performance varies, with users noting improvements when optimizing system drivers.
Source
Comparisons
-
Chromaphone 3 is compared to Ableton's Collision, with the former offering expanded physical modeling capabilities and more layers, leading to richer soundscapes.
Source -
Chromaphone's UI is preferred by some over Ableton's for complex programming, offering a cleaner interface with fewer boxes.
Source
User experience
-
Owners highlight Chromaphone 3's unique ability to create 'uncanny valley' sounds, merging qualities of different instruments, making it ideal for experimental music.
Source
Use cases and applications
-
It's noted for creating alien-like IDM drumkits and soundscapes, with specific soundpacks like "Microsound Textures" and "Humanized" enhancing its versatility.
Source -
Chromaphone excels at imitating marimbas, vibraphones, tubular bells, and exotic sounds like PVC pipe, though string sounds may be less convincing.
Source
Features and functionality
-
Chromaphone 3 includes unique "drumhead" and "manual" resonator modes not found in Ableton's Collision, enhancing its acoustic modeling capabilities.
Source -
The "coupled resonators" mode physically models resonators being attached and interacting, distinct from Collision's "serial mode."
Source -
Built-in EQ and compressor allow quick sound cleanup directly within the plugin, offering convenience over additional software.
Source
Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
More Applied Acoustics Systems Complete Collection
Accessories & Related Items
Artist usage
Community setups
Similar
Most Popular Complete Collection
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
equipboardGear IQ 4934
-