Arp Instruments Rhodes Chroma Analog Polyphonic Synthesizer Model 2104

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The ARP Rhodes Chroma Model 2104, released in 1982, is a polyphonic analog synthesizer renowned for its rich sound and advanced features. Developed in collaboration between ARP Instruments and Rhodes, the Chroma was quickly considered one of the most sophisticated synthesizers of its time. It was quite a rare instrument as only 3000 units have been made.

Its 16-voice polyphony and advanced modulation capabilities made it a powerful tool for both live performances and studio work. Notable users include Jethro Tull, Herbie Hancock, Oscar Peterson and Joe Zawinul.

The Rhodes Chroma features 16 voices, each with one Voltage-Controlled Oscillators (VCOs) per voice, offering sawtooth, square, and pulse waveforms. The synth can also be set up to have 8 voices with 2 VCO per voice. Among its complicated synthesis engine, the Chroma also offers two arpeggiators, a graphic equalizer, pitch/mod, splittable keyboard and 6 other sliders. A keyboardless expander module of the Chroma was also made available.

One of the most advanced feature of the Rhodes Chroma, for its time, was the ability to interface with an Apple IIe computer for sequence and patch storage using dedicated Chroma software.