Cherry Audio Mercury-8

The Roland Jupiter-8 defined the sound of the 1980s but commands five-figure prices today. Cherry Audio's Mercury-8 brings that sound to everyone through meticulous component-level modelling at a fraction of the cost.

Dual-Layer Architecture

Mercury-8 goes beyond a simple Jupiter-8 clone with a dual-layer design offering 16 voices per layer (32 total). Each layer is a complete synthesizer with two oscillators per voice, the classic multimode filter, and independent arpeggiator. Split the keyboard, stack two layers for massive unison patches, or run two completely different sounds simultaneously.

Sound Engine

Each oscillator delivers saw, square, pulse, and sub waveforms with oscillator sync and cross-modulation. The filter section recreates the Jupiter-8's distinctive 12dB and 24dB multimode response — the warm, slightly aggressive character that made the original legendary for pads, basses, and leads.

Cherry Audio's vintage controls let you dial in exactly how much analog imperfection you want. Drift adds pitch and filter instability, recreating the natural behaviour of aging components. The original Jupiter-8 factory presets are included alongside 600+ new patches across 16 categories.

Modern Additions

Where the original hardware was limited, Mercury-8 expands. A four-slot modulation matrix adds routing flexibility the 1981 design lacked. Three effects sections (one per layer plus a global bus) offer 20 effect types. A 16-step, 4-pattern polyphonic sequencer brings sequence-driven sound design that the hardware could never do.

Who Is This For?

• Synth-pop and 80s-inspired producers chasing authentic Jupiter-8 tones
• Anyone priced out of vintage Jupiter hardware wanting the sound at $69
• Producers wanting analog warmth without analog maintenance
• Sound designers who will appreciate the dual-layer depth beyond simple emulation
• Budget-conscious studios needing premium vintage character