Cherry Audio Intros Crumar DS-2 Synthesizer Plugin
TL;DR: Cherry Audio just dropped the Crumar DS-2 — a massively expanded plugin recreation of the rare 1978 Italian polysynth — for $59. Even better, through April 13, 2026, you can grab it in a Pick 3 bundle for $119 $99 or a Pick 6 bundle for $169 $149. Grab the Crumar DS-2 here.
What Is the Cherry Audio Crumar DS-2?
The Crumar DS-2 is a software synthesizer from Cherry Audio that recreates — and significantly expands — the original Crumar DS-2 hardware from 1978. The original was a rare Italian multitimbral polysynth that most producers have never even seen in person. Cherry Audio’s plugin version keeps the distinctive dual-section architecture (a monophonic Synth section and a polyphonic Poly section) while adding modern features like 32-note polyphony, keyboard splits, extra modulation, and 20 built-in effects. It runs on macOS and Windows in AU, VST, VST3, AAX, and standalone formats.
Key Features
- Dual-section architecture — Combines a monophonic Synth section (with Unison and Multi-voice modes) and a polyphonic Poly section, just like the original hardware.
- Up to 32-note polyphony — The Poly section supports full 32-note polyphony, with selectable 4, 8, or 16 voice modes in the Synth section.
- Keyboard splits and layers — Go beyond the original’s layer-only design with a new split mode for multitimbral setups.
- 20 studio-quality effects — Includes BBD Flanger, Galactic Reverb, Tape Echo, Ring Modulator, Dual Ensemble, Spring Reverb, and more.
- Expanded modulation — A third LFO with discrete delays, sync, retrigger, reverse wave, and one-shot capabilities.
- 300+ presets — Professionally designed sounds across 14 categories to get started quickly.
Who Is It For?
- Vintage synth enthusiasts — If you collect rare virtual analog recreations, the Crumar DS-2 fills a gap that no other plugin currently covers.
- Sound designers — The dual-section architecture plus 20 effects and deep modulation routing offer serious palette-building potential.
- Polysynth pad creators — 32-note polyphony and the Dual Ensemble / Galactic Reverb effects are designed for lush, wide textures.
- Cherry Audio collectors — If you already own several Cherry Audio titles, the Build Your Own Bundle deal makes this an easy add.
Pricing & Deal Details
| Regular Price | Deal Price (Bundle) | You Save |
|---|---|---|
| $59 (single) | $59 | — |
| $99 | $20 | |
| $149 | $20 |
The Pick 3 and Pick 6 bundle pricing runs through April 13, 2026. An optional “Deep Space” preset expansion pack is available for $9.99. A free 30-day demo is also available if you want to test drive it first.
Verify current pricing on the product page — deals can change. Check the deal here.
Alternatives at a Glance
| Name | Price | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Arturia CZ V | Check current price | Models the Casio CZ series — digital phase distortion rather than analog-style subtractive |
| Cherry Audio Memorymode | $59 | Models the Moog Memorymoog — different sonic character, no dual-section architecture |
| u-he Diva | Check current price | CPU-heavy analog modeling with mix-and-match oscillator/filter types — broader but not historically focused |
If you specifically want that rare late-’70s Italian polysynth character with a dual Synth/Poly architecture, the DS-2 is the only game in town. If you want a more general-purpose analog-modeled polysynth with deep flexibility, Diva covers wider ground. If you’re already in the Cherry Audio ecosystem, bundling the DS-2 with other titles at the Pick 3 or Pick 6 price makes the most sense.
FAQ
Q: Does the Cherry Audio Crumar DS-2 require iLok? A: Cherry Audio plugins use their own authorization system — no iLok dongle or iLok License Manager is required.
Q: What formats does the Crumar DS-2 support? A: AU, VST, VST3, AAX, and standalone on both macOS and Windows.
Q: Is there a free trial? A: Yes, Cherry Audio offers a free 30-day demo so you can test it before buying.
Q: What are the system requirements? A: It supports macOS and Windows. Check the official Cherry Audio product page for detailed minimum specs.
Get the Deal
The Crumar DS-2 at $59 is already competitive for a plugin of this depth — but the bundle pricing through April 13 sweetens it further. Don’t sleep on the Pick 3 for $99 if you’ve been eyeing other Cherry Audio titles. Get the Crumar DS-2 now.
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