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Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Cherry Audio CA2600". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Experience the thrill of vintage synthesis with the Cherry Audio CA2600, a duophonic synthesizer that pays homage to the iconic ARP 2600 while embracing modern updates for enhanced playability. This plugin delivers all the charm of its predecessor with astonishing detail, from the distinctive oscillator waves to the robust ladder filter. Whether you're crafting gritty bass lines, soaring leads, or experimental soundscapes, the CA2600 is your go-to tool for creative exploration.

Designed for musicians who crave hands-on control, the CA2600 features semi-normalled patch cabling and integrated effects, providing a seamless workflow without hidden menus disrupting your creative flow. Its flexible design offers a plethora of sound-shaping options, from the vintage-correct multi-mode filter to the fully CV-controllable distortion, reverb, and delay effects.

Perfectly suited for both studio and live performances, the CA2600 supports full MIDI control and DAW automation, ensuring your sonic creations are as dynamic and expressive as your imagination. With a wide array of presets and intuitive patch cabling, this synthesizer invites you to dive deep into a universe of sound possibilities, all with the ease of modern software convenience.

Key Features:

  • Faithful emulation of the ARP 2600 with precise detailing.
  • 300+ presets for immediate inspiration.
  • Monophonic and duophonic voice modes.
  • Vintage-correct multi-mode filter with 12db and 24db slope.
  • Integrated distortion, reverb, and delay with CV control and sync.
  • Sidechain audio input for external signal processing.
  • Advanced patch cabling with quick patch and drag movement.
  • Additional LFO with six waveforms and tempo sync.
  • Multiple color schemes: blue, grey, or black/orange.
  • Full MIDI control and DAW automation.
  • Available in AU, VST, VST3, AAX, and standalone formats for both Mac and Windows.

Owner's manual

Cherry Audio CA2600 User Manual

Product specs

Software Type Monophonic/Duophonic Synth
Platform Mac, PC
Upgrade/Full Full
Download/Boxed Download
Bit Depth 64-bit
Format AAX, AU, VST, VST3, Standalone
Authorization Type Internet Connection Required
Hardware Requirements - Mac Quad-core 3.4GHz / M1 CPU or higher, 8GB RAM minimum
Hardware Requirements - PC Quad-core 3.4GHz or higher
OS Requirements - Mac macOS 10.13 or later
OS Requirements - PC Windows 7 SP1 or later

FAQs

Is the Cherry Audio CA2600 Synthesizer polyphonic?

The Cherry Audio CA2600 is a monophonic/duophonic synthesizer, allowing for one or two notes to be played simultaneously, making it ideal for lead and bass lines.

What are the system requirements for the Cherry Audio CA2600 Synthesizer?

For Mac, it requires macOS 10.13 or later with a Quad-core 3.4GHz / M1 CPU and 8GB RAM. For PC, it needs Windows 7 SP1 or later with a Quad-core 3.4GHz CPU.

In which formats is the Cherry Audio CA2600 available?

The Cherry Audio CA2600 is available in AAX, AU, VST, VST3 formats, and can also be used as a standalone application.

Does the Cherry Audio CA2600 require an internet connection for use?

Yes, an internet connection is required for the authorization of the Cherry Audio CA2600 Synthesizer.

Can the Cherry Audio CA2600 Synthesizer be used on multiple computers?

Yes, you can activate the Cherry Audio CA2600 on up to four computers simultaneously, offering flexibility for multiple setups.

Cherry Audio

Cherry Audio

Cherry Audio | CA2600

Video thumbnail for Cherry Audio | CA2600 by Cherry Audio

Cherry Audio | CA2600

Cherry Audio

Cherry Audio

Video thumbnail for Recreating the "Who Are You" Guitar Tone With Cherry Audio CA2600 by Cherry Audio

Recreating the "Who Are You" Guitar Tone With Cherry Audio CA2600

Cherry Audio

Cherry Audio

Video thumbnail for Cherry Audio CA2600 vs 2600 Hardware: Generic Synth Engine or 2600 character? by Starsky Carr

Cherry Audio CA2600 vs 2600 Hardware: Generic Synth Engine or 2600 character?

Starsky Carr

Starsky Carr

Video thumbnail for Cherry Audio CA2600 - ARP2600 Software Recreation by Dash Glitch

Cherry Audio CA2600 - ARP2600 Software Recreation

Dash Glitch

Dash Glitch

Video thumbnail for Cherry Audio | CA2600 | Presets Preview by Simon Le Grec

Cherry Audio | CA2600 | Presets Preview

Simon Le Grec

Simon Le Grec

Video thumbnail for First look at Cherry Audio CA2600 by Marula Music

First look at Cherry Audio CA2600

Marula Music

Marula Music

Video thumbnail for VST synthesizer - Cherry Audio CA2600 by HRS Courses

VST synthesizer - Cherry Audio CA2600

HRS Courses

HRS Courses

Video thumbnail for Using Cherry Audio's CA2600 As An Audio Effect by Cherry Audio

Using Cherry Audio's CA2600 As An Audio Effect

Cherry Audio

Cherry Audio

Reviews

PROS

  • Faithful ARP 2600 emulation with vintage gear vibe

  • Extensive control and accessibility for sound creation

  • Integrated effects like stereo panning, distortion, delay, and reverb

  • Lightweight on computer resources, ideal for older systems

  • Highly affordable, providing great value for money

  • User-friendly layout for quick sound design

  • Presets available for beginners to learn synthesis

  • Ring modulator offers unique sound possibilities

CONS

  • Downloading and activation process can be problematic

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Cherry Audio CA2600.

Comparisons

  • Arturia 2600 is polyphonic, unlike the monophonic CA2600, making it better for playing chords.

    Source
  • Some users feel the CA2600 sounds similar to an FM synth, described as "clangy and metallic," which might suit special effects like laser zaps.

    Source
  • A comparison by Starsky Carr suggests the CA2600 closely emulates its analog counterpart, appealing to users seeking authenticity in sound.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Arturia 2600 includes an ARP sequencer, adding useful experimental possibilities not found in the CA2600.

    Source
  • The CA2600 uses a standard patch browser/UI frame across all Cherry Audio synths, enhancing user familiarity and ease of use.

    Source
  • Additional effect processors are included, allowing patches to sound more complete and self-contained.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The CA2600 offers solid sound quality at a competitive price compared to Arturia, which may not justify the higher cost for some users.

    Source
  • The CA2600 is priced at $19, considered a high-value offering, even cheaper than its original launch price of $39.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners of the Arturia 2600 find it creatively inspiring and frequently reach for it in their music projects.

    Source
  • Owners with high-performance CPUs like the AMD Ryzen 7 3700X report no performance issues, highlighting system-dependent experiences.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The CA2600 can be creatively used for sci-fi effects and funk squelches, with additional LFOs for burbly modulations.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The CA2600 is noted to consume high CPU resources, which may be a concern for users with less powerful systems.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Cherry's CA2600 is a perfect ARP 2600 for $25 - here's a tour - CDM Create Digital Music

cdm.link

Cherry Audio's CA2600 is a fantastic homage to the ARP 2600, offering a user-friendly interface packed with features for just $25. Its intuitive layout, eye-catching design, and inclusion of modern enhancements make sound design a breeze, especially for beginners. However, some traditionalists might miss fine-tuning options on the filter. Still, the overall sound fidelity and ease of use ensure that this synth is a must-have for both novices and seasoned musicians alike.

positive

CA2600 is Cherry Audio’s $39 software take on the legendary ARP 2600

musictech.com

Cherry Audio's CA2600 stands out as an affordable homage to the classic ARP 2600, packing in modern features like semi-normalled patching and built-in effects that enhance its creative potential. While it faithfully replicates the original’s quirks and tones, the added flexibility of control and MIDI compatibility makes it appealing for both novice and seasoned musicians. However, some users may find the interface slightly overwhelming at first, and the price point—while low—is still a consideration for budget-conscious producers. Overall, the CA2600 is a worthy buy for those looking to explore the world of soft synths without breaking the bank.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

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carbinax

$29 for an Arp 2600 emulation ??

I've never owned an actual hardware Arp2600. I think very few of us ever have. That;s what makes this emulation so desirable. I don't know if it sounds identical to an actual 2600, but what I do know is that it sounds analog, it sounds great in its own right, and I definitely get that vibe of vintage gear. It's the closest I'll ever get to owning a 2600, and without the hassles of space, finding more plug sockets, usb sockets etc....and being able to save my presets, and all for the miniscule asking price of $29. At that price, I feel like I'm robbing Cherry Audio. This is an awesome synth !!

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