SH-MAX is a virtual instrument plugin based on three remarkable SH-series synthesizers from the 1970s: the Roland SH-5, Roland SH-7, and Roland SH-3A.

Developed by Cherry Audio, SH-MAX is far more than a first-time software emulation. It combines the bold and assertive sound of the SH-5 with selected features from the SH-7 and SH-3A, enhanced with modern flexibility, expanded routing, and powerful performance tools.

SH-MAX faithfully reproduces the core architecture of the SH-5, including dual oscillators, two LFOs, parallel multimode and bandpass filters, ring modulation, and sample & hold functionality. It expands on this foundation with SH-7 features such as autobend, duophony, filter FM, and syncable VCOs with additional waveforms. The additive-style oscillator of the SH-3A is also included for increased tonal flexibility.

Additional expressive capabilities are inspired by the Roland SH-2000, along with a classic sequencer concept influenced by the Roland System-100 Model 104.

A defining characteristic of SH-MAX is its distinctive filter personality, capable of shifting from warm analog tones to aggressive, cutting sounds. It excels at producing raw timbres that sit prominently in a mix, with optional built-in effects for further shaping.

The mixer section now includes stereo functionality and modular-style routing. Each sound source — VCO-1, VCO-2A, VCO-2B, Ring Mod, and Noise — can be independently routed to the Voltage Controlled Filter (VCF), Bandpass Filter (BPF), or Voltage Controlled Amplifier (VCA), each with its own dedicated effects chain.

SH-MAX includes 20 studio-quality effects that can be arranged within four independent effect chains. Optional drift and slop controls for oscillators, filters, amplifier, and dual envelope generators provide additional analog character.

The instrument supports mono, duophonic, layered unison, and up to 16-voice polyphonic operation. The Touch Effects panel offers four assignable performance controls and supports polyphonic aftertouch for expressive playability.

A built-in four-channel step sequencer allows patterns of up to 16 steps to run in parallel or be chained into 32- or 64-step sequences. More than 300 professionally designed presets are included.

SH-MAX represents a powerful fusion of over five decades of electronic music innovation, bringing the character of the SH-series into a modern production environment.