# Mellotron > Authentic Mellotron tape instrument sounds for keyboardists. (iPhone/iPad app by Markus Resch.) - Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/mellotron/id648885269 (this page in markdown: same URL + `.md`) - Developer: [Markus Resch](https://appshunter.io/developer/648885272) - Category: Music - Price: $1.99 - Rating: 4.50/5 from 4 App Store ratings · 29 written reviews indexed - Age rating: 4+ - Requires: iOS 9.3 · 88 MB - Languages: English - Released: 2013-10-23 - Data updated: 2026-06-10 - Monetization: paid - User reviews in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/mellotron/id648885269/reviews.md ## What is Mellotron? Description This is the official and the only Mellotron app with sounds from the original library. This app contains 6 sounds but we also have the Mellotron XL app available, which contains 18 sounds plus emulations of the characteristics of different Mellotron and Chamberlin models. The XL version has some rare Chamberlin sounds, more Mellotron rhythms and fills from the MkII Mellotron plus a reverb unit. This instrument supports Core Midi, Audiobus output (Audiobus 2 & 3) and midi input (Audiobus 3 only). The Mellotron is a keyboard instrument that uses magnetic tape to play back recordings where each key has one tape. When you press a key, the tape starts and the corresponding pre-recorded note or sound is played back. When you release the key the tape is quickly rewound back to the start point. Invented in 1950 by the American, Harry Chamberlin, it became popular among recording musicians when it was manufactured in the UK as the "Mellotron" (a hyphenation of "melody-electronics"). Before the introduction of digital samplers, this was the only way for keyboardists to play real instrument sounds like strings, flutes, rhythm ensembles and sound effects from a keyboard instrument. Few people know about Mellotrons and Chamberlins, but almost everybody has heard the sounds they produce. Among the most well-known tracks are BeatIes "Strawberry Fields Forewer" (flute), Moody Blues "Nights in White Satin" (3 violins), Oasis "Wonderwall" (cello), Radiohead "Exit Music for a Film" (choir), Lana del Rey "Ride" (Chamberlin flute). We at Mellotron have collected, conserved and improved Mellotrons since 1989, and have been making tape Mellotrons since 1999 (the MkVI and MkVII). Please check out our website www.mellotron.com for a more complete history, real hardware instruments, our new digital M4000D Mellotron and M4000D Mini, tapes from the original masters, parts, service and lots of more info. ## Key features - Original Mellotron sounds - 6 authentic tape-based instruments - Core Midi support - Audiobus output - Midi input support ## Recent user reviews (10 of 29) All indexed reviews: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/mellotron/id648885269/reviews.md ### 4/5 — Upgrade? *2020-07-11, version 2.0.3* Can I upgrade to xl without posting full price? ### 5/5 — It’s a Mellotron! *2020-03-24, version 2.0.3* The sounds are awesome. Just like the original tapes. ### 5/5 — This App Is Amazing! *2020-03-14, version 2.0.3* Just what I needed, thank. It’s fun to play around with all the sounds. I give this a five star. ### 5/5 — Excellent! *2020-01-06, version 2.0.3* The samples sound great, and the interface is gorgeous! ### 1/5 — Updated version is silent *2019-12-25, version 2.0.1* I loved the previous version of this app but latest update is completely silent! Help ! ### 4/5 — Bug is fixed *2019-11-20, version 2.0.1* Used to crash every time. The bug has been fixed and this app now works well. Thanks for the fix! ### 5/5 — Nice application for mellotron lovers. *2019-11-20, version 2.0.1* I love this application. I’m not a musician BUT I’m a big fan of progressive music and of course the Mellotron sound. Thanks for the new update, it’s now working on IOS 13 and the new design look great! ### 1/5 — Crashes when opened! *2019-08-07, version 1.14.0* As soon it opens, one touch and it crashes. Worked on my old 5S, but not my newer iPhone. ### 1/5 — Crashes instantly *2019-07-26, version 1.14.0* Waste of money ### 1/5 — Crashes *2019-07-04, version 1.14.0* Crashes instantly waste of money ## Frequently asked questions about Mellotron ### What is the Mellotron app? The Mellotron app is a digital recreation of the classic Mellotron keyboard instrument. It provides access to authentic sounds from the original Mellotron library, allowing users to play these unique vintage tones on their mobile devices. ### What sounds are included in the Mellotron app? This specific app includes 6 sounds from the original Mellotron library. For a broader selection with more sounds and emulations of different Mellotron and Chamberlin models, the Mellotron XL app is also available. ### How much does the Mellotron app cost? The provided information indicates that this is a paid application. There are no mentions of in-app purchases or advertisements, suggesting a one-time purchase model. ### What are the technical specifications for the Mellotron app? The app supports Core Midi, Audiobus output (versions 2 & 3), and MIDI input (Audiobus 3 only). This allows for integration with other music production software and hardware. ### What is a Mellotron and why is it historically significant? A Mellotron is a unique keyboard instrument that uses magnetic tape to play back pre-recorded instrument sounds. Invented in the 1950s, it was the primary way for keyboardists to access realistic instrument sounds like strings and flutes before the advent of digital samplers, famously featuring on iconic tracks. ## Version history (last 1 release) ### 2.0.3 — 2020-01-03 Will still play audio when device is in silent mode Minor graphic bug fixes (2.0) Fix for crashing app New improved graphics Core midi support Double tap to reset knobs to default ## More apps by Markus Resch - [Mellotron XL](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/mellotron-xl/id716634619) - [Mellotron Updater](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/mellotron-updater/id1507995104) - [Chamberlin](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/chamberlin/id1534293584) All apps by Markus Resch: https://appshunter.io/developer/648885272 --- *Data collected daily from the US App Store and indexed by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/). User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-06-10.*