Cheetah MD16RP
A 16-part multitimbral digital drum machine with 8-voice polyphony and ROM cartridge-based sound expansion.
Overview
The Cheetah MD16RP is a digital drum machine built by Cheetah, designed for flexible rhythm programming and performance. It supports 16 multitimbral parts, allowing each drum sound to be individually addressed, and delivers 8-voice polyphony for layered or complex patterns. The system uses 16-bit drum sound generation, providing clear and dynamic audio output for its era. A key feature is its support for external sound expansion via interchangeable ROM cartridges, enabling users to customize and expand the available drum kits.
Specifications
| Product type | Drum machine |
| Parts | 16 multitimbral parts |
| Polyphony | 8-voice polyphony |
| Sound generation | 16-bit drum sound generation |
| Sound expansion | Support for external sound expansion via ROM cartridges |
| Original price | £399 |
Market
The Cheetah MD16RP was priced at £399 at launch, as listed in multiple 1992 issues of Music Technology magazine. While some sources list the price as EPOA (Each Price On Application), the confirmed £399 listing from three independent issues supports this as the official retail price.
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