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 for rhythm programming and live playing. It has 16 multitimbral parts, so each drum sound can be addressed on its own. Polyphony is 8 voices, enough for layered or busy patterns. The sound generation is 16-bit, which gave clear, dynamic output for its era. Sounds can be expanded with interchangeable ROM cartridges, so the drum kits aren't limited to what ships in the box.
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 launched at £399, as listed in multiple 1992 issues of Music Technology magazine. Some sources show the price as EPOA (Each Price On Application), but the £399 listing appears in three independent issues, which supports it as the official retail price.
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