Fender Chroma Polaris

$2,495.00 Price Tier: High-end

4.5 (5)

1 Critic Review

Find out who is using Fender Chroma Polaris

1 community setup

6 wishlisted

17 saved

Page last updated Jun 13, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated June 13, 2026.

Store

Reviews

Price

5.0 (5)

$2,495.00 5 available Used

View Deal

Average Price: $2,495

High-end/Boutique

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

In the Synthesizers category, Fender Chroma Polaris is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

^* 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

Edit description

The Fender Chroma Polaris is a vintage synthesizer that brings a classic touch to any musician's collection. Released in the mid-1980s, this synth is celebrated for its six-voice polyphony, allowing for rich, layered soundscapes. Its analog/digital hybrid design offers the warmth of analog synthesis combined with digital precision, making it a versatile tool for both studio sessions and live performances. The Chroma Polaris is equipped with a 61-key velocity-sensitive keyboard, providing expressive control and dynamic playability.

This synthesizer features a robust set of controls and parameters, including envelope generators, LFOs, and a variety of modulation options. With its easily navigable interface, musicians can effortlessly shape their sound, whether it's for creating lush pads, punchy basslines, or cutting leads. The inclusion of MIDI compatibility further enhances its adaptability, allowing integration with modern setups.

The Chroma Polaris is not just a tool but a conversation piece, with its distinctive interface and unique sound palette. It offers a tactile experience that invites experimentation and creativity, making it a cherished addition to any synth enthusiast's arsenal.

Key Features:

Six-voice polyphony for complex sound layers
61-key velocity-sensitive keyboard
Hybrid analog/digital design
Extensive modulation options, including envelope generators and LFOs
MIDI compatibility for integration with contemporary setups
Intuitive interface for easy sound shaping
Vintage aesthetic with a distinctive design

Videos

Add video

Alex Ball

That One Time That Fender Made A Synth...

Alex Ball

Fender / Rhodes CHROMA POLARIS - Ambient Chillout Music 【SYNTH DEMO】

synth4ever

Fender Chroma Polaris 100% sounds demo - polynominal.com

Polynominaldotcom

Fender Chroma Polaris | The Synths That Time Forgot

Alamo Music Sound Lab

CHROMA POLARIS: Live Demo of the Polyphonic Odyssey

Vulture Culture

Fender Chroma Polaris - one song - one synth

The Synth King

Reviews

Add review

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Chroma Polaris.

Features and functionality

0 0

The Chroma Polaris is praised for its robust MIDI control and the ability to perform complex multitimbral operations, surpassing other polysynths from its era.
Source
0 0

The Osc 2 Envelope function allows distinct envelopes for each oscillator, creating dynamic swells and unique sounds.
Source
0 0

Utilizing the pedal input can introduce complex dynamics, enhancing the synthesizer’s expressive capabilities.
Source

User experience

0 0

Owners highlight the synth's "minty condition" rarity and its enduring appeal, making it a cherished piece that some refuse to part with.
Source
0 0

The Chroma Polaris offers crisp, high-definition sound quality described as punchy and powerful, appealing to those seeking a majestic audio presence.
Source
0 0

The Chroma Polaris's appeal can vary, with some users not ranking it in their top 5 synths, preferring models like the Virus TI and Analog Keys.
Source

Comparisons

0 0

The Chroma Polaris's layout is reminiscent of the Brute series with its linear fader arrangement, offering a unique visual and tactile experience.
Source

Use cases and applications

0 0

Users find the Chroma Polaris fun and enjoyable for jamming sessions, appreciating its sound quality during casual play.
Source
0 0

Some owners debate the practicality of owning both a Chroma Polaris and a Prophet 5 due to overlapping features, though each offers unique sound profiles.
Source

Build quality

0 0

The Chroma Polaris is noted for its heavy weight, attributed to a potential manufacturing error where 1/8" steel was used instead of plastic for the chassis.
Source

Setup and maintenance

0 0

Replacing the membrane panel is crucial as the original often fails; replacements can be sourced from Paul De Rocco, an original engineer.
Source
0 0

Owners stress the importance of regular internal cleaning, as spills can lead to severe issues like caramelization on the PSU and voltage spikes.
Source

Value and pricing

0 0

Recent sales suggest Chroma Polaris prices have risen significantly, with some units selling for up to $1500 compared to $400-$600 in 2012.
Source

Critic Reviews

Chroma Polaris (EMM Nov 84)

muzines.co.uk

The Fender Chroma Polaris is a synth with potential but marred by some execution flaws. Its rich analogue sounds and versatile interface options are highlights, offering a wide range of sonic possibilities. However, the complexity of its controls and lack of user-friendly features, like aftertouch and easy editing, detract from its appeal. Performance issues, such as unfriendly levers and buttons, and a complicated control section, undermine its usability. While its sound quality is commendable, especially with the return of classic analogue tones, the Chroma Polaris faces stiff competition at its price point. Musicians seeking a robust performance instrument might find it worth a look, but should be prepared for its operational quirks.

neutral

Full Review

Add review

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 5 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star