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Plugin Boutique
4.7 (375)
$199.00
Thomann
4.6 (7)
$176.00 $175.00 $1.00 · All time low

Average Price: $190

Standard/Professional

$79

$200+

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Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Applied Acoustics Systems Chromaphone 3". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash a world of sonic exploration with the Applied Acoustics Systems Chromaphone 3, a two-voice synthesizer that merges the artistry of acoustic resonance with the versatility of digital synthesis. By integrating eight distinct, physically modeled acoustic resonators, Chromaphone 3 crafts a palette of sounds that are both breathtakingly real and uniquely imaginative. Whether you're sculpting the timbres of strings, plates, or tubes, this plugin offers a tactile experience that puts the power of instrument creation at your fingertips.

The newly enhanced Home View offers a streamlined interface, making sound design a breeze with its intuitive macros for modulation, timbre, envelope, and effects. This thoughtful layout ensures you spend more time creating and less time navigating, allowing for real-time expressive performance and dynamic sound shaping.

With a factory library boasting over 1000 presets, including 420 entirely new sounds from acclaimed designers, Chromaphone 3 stands as a testament to the possibilities of sound synthesis. The inclusion of an expanded multi-effects module gives you even more creative freedom, letting you polish your sounds with reverb, compression, and more.

For those seeking the cutting edge in music software, Chromaphone 3’s compatibility with Chromaphone 2 sounds and support for microtonal tunings via Scala files ensures a seamless transition and expanded musical horizons.

Key Features:

  • Two-voice multitimbral synthesizer with stacked or split timbres
  • Eight physically modeled acoustic resonators
  • Over 1000 presets including a new library of 420 sounds
  • Intuitive Home View with modulation, timbre, envelope, and effects macros
  • Expanded multi-effects module with reverb, EQ, compressor, and more
  • Compatible with Chromaphone 2 sounds and supports Scala scale files for microtonal music
  • Requires macOS 10.11 or later, or Windows 10 64-bit or later, with a minimum Intel Core i5 processor

Owner's manual

Applied Acoustics Systems Chromaphone 3 User Manual

Product specs

Software Type Synthesizer
Platform Mac, PC
Upgrade/Full Full
Download/Boxed Download
Bit Depth 64-bit
Format Standalone, VST, AU, AAX Native
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 type of synthesis does Chromaphone 3 use?

Chromaphone 3 utilizes physical modeling synthesis, simulating real-world acoustic resonators to create organic and dynamic sounds.

Is Chromaphone 3 compatible with my DAW?

Chromaphone 3 is compatible with most major DAWs as it supports VST, AU, and AAX plugin formats on both Mac and PC platforms.

What are the system requirements for running Chromaphone 3?

Chromaphone 3 requires a Mac (OS X 10.11 or later) or PC (Windows 10 or later) with an Intel Core i5 5th Gen processor or better, and at least 4GB of RAM.

Can Chromaphone 3 operate as a standalone application?

Yes, Chromaphone 3 can be used as a standalone application, allowing you to play and experiment with sounds without a DAW.

Does Chromaphone 3 offer polyphonic capabilities?

Yes, Chromaphone 3 is polyphonic, allowing you to play multiple notes simultaneously for rich, layered sounds.

Applied Acoustics Systems

Applied Acoustics Systems

Introducing Chromaphone 3 acoustic object synthesizer plug-in—VST AU AAX NKS

Video thumbnail for Introducing Chromaphone 3 acoustic object synthesizer plug-in—VST AU AAX NKS by Applied Acoustics Systems

Introducing Chromaphone 3 acoustic object synthesizer plug-in—VST AU AAX NKS

Applied Acoustics Systems

Applied Acoustics Systems

Video thumbnail for Welcome to the Chromaphone 3 acoustic object synthesizer plug-in by Applied Acoustics Systems

Welcome to the Chromaphone 3 acoustic object synthesizer plug-in

Applied Acoustics Systems

Applied Acoustics Systems

Video thumbnail for Artist Richard Devine talks Chromaphone 3 and more by Applied Acoustics Systems

Artist Richard Devine talks Chromaphone 3 and more

Applied Acoustics Systems

Applied Acoustics Systems

Video thumbnail for The resonator module with the Chromaphone 3 acoustic object synthesizer plug-in by Applied Acoustics Systems

The resonator module with the Chromaphone 3 acoustic object synthesizer plug-in

Applied Acoustics Systems

Applied Acoustics Systems

Video thumbnail for Chromaphone 3 by Applied Acoustics Systems | Overview & Review of Key Features by Plugin Boutique

Chromaphone 3 by Applied Acoustics Systems | Overview & Review of Key Features

Plugin Boutique

Plugin Boutique

Video thumbnail for Multitimbrality: working with layers with the Chromaphone 3 acoustic object synthesizer plug-in by Applied Acoustics Systems

Multitimbrality: working with layers with the Chromaphone 3 acoustic object synthesizer plug-in

Applied Acoustics Systems

Applied Acoustics Systems

Video thumbnail for Managing user content with the Chromaphone 3 acoustic object synthesizer plug-in by Applied Acoustics Systems

Managing user content with the Chromaphone 3 acoustic object synthesizer plug-in

Applied Acoustics Systems

Applied Acoustics Systems

Video thumbnail for AAS Chromaphone 3 Acoustic Object Synthesizer / Studio Demo Sound / by NIKOLAJ OSADCHIJ

AAS Chromaphone 3 Acoustic Object Synthesizer / Studio Demo Sound /

NIKOLAJ OSADCHIJ

NIKOLAJ OSADCHIJ

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique physical modeling synthesis offers diverse, realistic soundscapes

  • Extensive library with over 1000 versatile presets

  • Ideal for creating spacey and synthetic sound textures

  • Excellent for ethnic and percussive instrument emulation

  • Arpeggiator and sequencer enhance groove and rhythm creation

  • Intuitive, user-friendly GUI design

  • Expands spectral expression capabilities for creative sound design

  • Compatible with additional expansion packs for extended versatility

CONS

  • High CPU usage can cause audio dropouts on less powerful systems

  • License restrictions may limit preset customization

  • Price may be high outside of sales or discounts

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.

Software and compatibility

  • Chromaphone 3 may struggle on older systems; switching to ASIO4ALL drivers improved performance significantly for one user, reducing CPU spikes.

    Source
  • An Ableton bug causes crashes when opening the UI post-update, believed to be related to licensing; restarting resolves the issue.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The synth excels at creating hybrid sounds, like a mix between a marimba resonator and a harp, or IDM-textured drumkits.

    Source
  • Chromaphone 3 includes unique "drumhead" and "manual" resonator modes not found in Ableton's Collision, enhancing sound modeling capabilities.

    Source
  • The "coupled resonators" mode physically models resonators interacting, distinct from Collision's "serial mode," offering more nuanced sound interactions.

    Source
  • Built-in EQ and compressor facilitate quick sound cleanup within the plugin, beneficial for streamlined workflow.

    Source
  • Scala file support allows for alternative tunings, appealing to users interested in microtonality.

    Source
  • Users highlight modulation capabilities, allowing for control over unique parameters like mallet stiffness and drum head circumference, enhancing expressiveness.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Chromaphone 3 is ideal for generating unique, 'uncanny valley' sounds rather than replicating real-world instruments.

    Source
  • Sound packs like "Humanized" are praised for their quality, offering extensive patches that users find valuable for varied sound design projects.

    Source

Comparisons

  • While CPU intensive, it's noted to be less demanding than Knifonium, yet more so than many conventional synths.

    Source
  • Chromaphone is preferred over Logic's Sculpture for its diverse resonator options, including marimbas and tubular bells, though string sounds may be less impressive.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Owners mention a free upgrade to Chromaphone 3 if purchased from PluginBoutique after October 12, adding significant value for recent buyers.

    Source
  • Chromaphone 3's spring sale offers it at the lowest price seen, with the bundle discounted further than initially displayed.

    Source

User experience

  • Some owners report occasional slow patch loading and CPU spikes during heavy parameter modulation, impacting performance.

    Source

Critic Reviews

AAS Chromaphone 3 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Chromaphone 3 enhances its predecessor's robust sonic capabilities with dual resonator layers, unlocking a world of creative possibilities. The sound quality remains exceptional, and the expanded preset library adds depth and variety. However, the new Home tab feels underwhelming and lacks functionality, which may frustrate users seeking streamlined navigation. Overall, while it may not revolutionize the experience, Chromaphone 3 is a solid upgrade that continues to impress with its versatility and sound design potential.

positive

Applied Acoustic Systems Chromaphone 3 Review at AudioNewsRoom | Plugin Boutique

pluginboutique.com

Chromaphone 3 pushes the envelope of acoustic object synthesis with its improved interface and dual synthesis engines, delivering an expansive and versatile sound palette. The new browser and macro features enhance user experience, allowing for real-time performance tweaks. However, it lacks a "quick tip" feature and MPE support, which some users might miss. Despite these minor drawbacks, the plugin’s extensive preset library and additional sound packs offer plenty of inspiration for both traditional and experimental musicians. Overall, it's a compelling upgrade that invites creativity in sound exploration.

positive

Review of Chromaphone 3 by AAS - www.andrulian.com

andrulian.com

Chromaphone 3 is a powerhouse of sound versatility, offering an impressive range of acoustic object synthesis that spans from traditional percussion to innovative arps and organs. With a user-friendly interface and superb sound quality backed by complex modelling, it invites creative exploration. However, its demanding CPU usage can strain less powerful machines, although it remains functional even on older systems. While it excels in providing a wealth of presets and intuitive controls, users should be prepared for the necessity of a robust setup to fully harness its capabilities. Overall, Chromaphone 3 stands out as a compelling tool for musicians, albeit with some hardware limitations to consider.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
carbinax

excellent

I've never heard a sound so pristine on any other vst. If you use ethnic instruments like kalimba, thumb piano, cimbalom, woodblock and tons of other similar percussive instruments, this is absolutely essential. The sound quality is stunning. The GUI is well thought out and easy on the eye, and there are over 1000 presets before even dipping a toe in the whole library of extra expansions you could buy. Highly recommended !!

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Richard Devine uses Applied Acoustics Systems Chromaphone 3

Richard Devine

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

Featured in this October 27, 2020 video.

Genre Usage

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