Behringer Grind puts the colorful algorithms from Mutable Instruments Plaits and B Brains into a standalone hybrid semi-modular Synthesizer.
According to new videos, Andertons (UK) shipped the first batch of the Behringer Grind hybrid semi-modular Synthesizer. Youtuber Starsky Carr has published a no-talking sound demo about all the oscillator models. Sounds great in the video.
I’m curious when the other dealers get the first batch.
Update: it’s now ready for pre-order from Thomann for 189€.
Crave, Edge, and Spice are three analog instruments that have the same origins. All three are based on current designed from Moog Music, more precisely the Mother-32, DFAM, and Subharmonicon. Although there are differences. The Crave, for example, uses a different oscillator chip.
The third member of this Producer Series Spice, the Subharmonicon clone, has not yet been released. Now there is news in the series but interestingly not about the Spice. With the Grind, Behringer introduces a fourth synth in this lineup.
Behringer Grind
Grind is the first semi-modular Synthesizer in this series that is not directly based on the Moog. However, it is still not completely original.
Behringer Grind is a hybrid semi-modular Synthesizer that combines a multi-engine digital oscillator and a classic analog filter. The oscillator is based on the Behringer Brains digital oscillators, which in turn is a clone of the Mutable Instruments Plaits. It’s however not a complete clone.
It uses 15 of the open-source Plaits and nine new algorithms, ranging from synths, percussive, and extended engines: virtual analog, waveshaper, FM, grains, additive, chords, rain, noise, dust, modal string, FM drum, DX7, TD-3 bassline, wave generator, and more.
The oscillator is adjustable using four CV-controllable parameters: timbres, harmonics, frequency, and morph.
From here it goes into an analog part based on the Crave (Mother-32), using a Moog Ladder filter replica with lowpass and highpass option. Cutoff, resonance, VCF mod settings allows you to tweak the filter on the fly.
The modulation and sequencing section is also taken from the Crave Synthesizer. Behringer Grind hosts an ADS (attack/decay/sustain) envelope, a single analog triangle/square wave LFO, vibrato control, and a utility section with glide and voltage control mix options.
Part of the Mutable Instruments Plaits and B Brains is a lowpass gate/VCA combo that you can also use here.
Further, you can find a 32-step sequencer with 64 onboard storage slots and an advanced arpeggiator. Like in the previous releases, all this digital and analog sections are fully patachable, using a 34-socket Eurorack compatible patch matrix (22×12 I/O).
Plus, it offers a 16-voice poly chain option to combine multiple synths for up to 16-voice polyphony and it ships with classic MIDI support, including MIDI channel and voice prirotiy selection. Full MIDI CC is not available.
Behringer promises that Grind is a semi-modular synth powerhouse for anything from percussion, leads and basses to drums, drones and soundscapes.
First Impression
That’s a surprise. Many are waiting for the Spice, and then Behringer comes around the corner with the Grind. I think the idea of turning its Brains oscillator into a standalone Synthesizer is funny.
Behringer Grind is available soon for $199/189€.
More information here: Behringer
Available for pre-order at my partner
Thomann
