The Chroma Polaris was the second synthesizer made by Fender/Rhodes after they took over ARP, following their classic Rhodes Chroma. It has a classic analog ARP-like sound, kind-of tinny but also fat. Sounds can be layered up to 6 voices. It has typical analog synth controls including a cool 'sweep' knob for sweeping through the LFO or analog filter cutoff parameters. It also has a simple real-time sequencer and 132 memory patches.

There's also a nice and colorful layout with sliders similar to Roland Juno synths, membrane push-buttons and a large velocity sensitive 61-note keyboard making the Chroma Polaris a very nice synth. Fully MIDI-equipped, the Polaris will transmit and receive all its edit controls through MIDI as well as the ability to play up to three patches at once. Unfortunately they are rare and usually hard to find. It has been used by Leftfield and Jimmy Edgar.

Rob Ocelot

June 15, 2013 @ 4:28 pm

@Monty -- Polaris membranes have always been a big problem until recently. The membranes crack underneath at stress points and usually stop working. There are good replacements available for about $200 from one of the original Polaris engineers on the Polaris Yahoo Group.

monty

May 8, 2013 @ 4:57 pm

what are the membrane buttons like on the Polaris. I saw one going for a reasonable price (£400) recently but stalled on buying it as the seller said some of the membrane switches were playing up. Can anyone comment? cheers

Wahid

January 2, 2013 @ 9:51 am

A very underated synth... the Polaris is better than simple Chroma and have greatest and powerful pad and synthbrass like a OB. The processor and the filters are pretty good and the design... in french is "il a une sacré gueule !" :)

Mike

January 1, 2013 @ 1:20 pm

I have an (I believe) '84 Chroma. It is model number 2123 and serial number 302748. Plays great, seems mint and is only missing two of the black toggle tops. Can anyone tell me what I have. I collect guitars and know knothing of the synth world. It was the ex-wife's and she deemed it to heavy to leave with! Any input would be appreciated.

rob ocelot

October 13, 2012 @ 12:43 pm

@restingcell

Check out the Chroma Polaris Yahoo! group. One of the original Polaris engineers (Paul deRocco) had a new batch of membrane panels made.

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