Cherry Audio’s KR-55C is a supercharged, best-of-both-worlds software emulation that combines features from two lesser-known drum machines of the post-punk era: Korg’s “Rhythm 55” KR-55A and KR-55B. KR-55C boasts all the rhythms from both models, for a total of 240 factory patterns, intros, and fills. Additionally, it adds 200 original patterns and kits that cover a wider range of genres. KR-55C’s user interface shifts based on whether the A or B model is selected and includes extra pages that let this beatbox “step out” even further. It features a familiar X0X-style 16-button layout for step-editing and real-time pattern programming, as well as a song mode for chaining up to 99 patterns.

Cherry Audio has flawlessly recreated the sounds of the KR-55 using various synthesis techniques, providing users with editable parameters such as tuning and EQ for each instrument. The mixer and effects sections allow for separate processing of each sound, with features including panning, mute/solo, overdrive, flanger/chorus, delay, and reverb. It also includes a bus compressor and limiter for master amplitude control. KR-55C offers DAW-friendly features such as auto-sync, drag-and-drop MIDI export, individual outputs, and complete automation capabilities.

The original KR-55 was introduced in 1979 as a replacement for the simpler Mini Pops 35 and Mini Pops 120 drum machines. Although all of these models were preset-only with no option for user-programmed rhythms, the KR-55 represented a significant advancement. In 1982, the updated KR-55B version was released that came with a sleek new design and doubled the internal pattern memory. The patterns and fills were also revised, with very few identical patterns shared between the KR-55A and KR-55B. The KR-55 has been used by many artists, including Depeche Mode, Fad Gadget, Soft Cell, Cabaret Voltaire, Jean-Michel Jarre, and most famously in Joe Jackson’s 1982 hit “Steppin’ Out.”