Behringer To Make Eurorack Modules In $49-$99 Range

Not content with their existing growing line of super-affordable, high-quality hardware synthesizers, Behringer are jumping into the eurorack market too. And they want to know what you want.

With the Model D, DeepMind and Neutron now out Behringer have been planning to conqueor the synth world with a Pro One clone, OB-Xa clone, and potential Jupiter-8 and TR-909 clones too.

Here's some "real renders" of possible Behringer eurorack modules as posted by ‎Marian Ciungu:

Behringer eurorack synth renders 1

 

Behringer eurorack synth renders 2

 

Behringer eurorack synth renders 3

As if that wasn't enough to keep us interested Uli Behringer has announced his company are now about to jump into the the world of eurorack modules by popular demand. And in the style we've become accustmed to he opened up the discussion to everyone on Gearslutz : 

Hello everyone,

As you are aware, many of our synthesizers such as Model D, Neutron, Pro-1 etc. have been designed to be used as standalone instruments but also to fit the hugely popular Eurorack format.

Many of you have now requested for us to build individual Eurorack modules, powered Eurorack cases and especially bring back some of the legacy modular systems.

At the same time we also thought about inviting all designers and engineers among you to participate in this initiative. 

The goal would be to build a wide range of modules and - as usual - at very affordable prices (target prices US$ 49-99) which would allow us to open this market and get as many people as possible into synths and making music. 

Our synth teams are very excited about this potential direction and would love to hear your opinion.

  • Are you interested in Eurorack systems?
  • What modules would you like us to make?
  • What legacy modular systems would you like us to make?
  • What accessories do you require?

Thank you :-)

Uli

If you already have a semi-modular synthesizer like the Model D or the soon to be released Neutron (a steal of a synth for just $299 btw), then you're already half way in the world of eurorack synthesizers thanks to the patch bay in both these synths. 

The Behringer Neutron is eurorack compatible.

Negative Impact On Eurorack Synth Industry?

We imagine Behringer will enter the eurorack synth world with a wide array of modules covering all bases, perhaps including some of their tasty filters from the Model D and Neutron. The modules will be in the very affordable $49-$99 range, which we suspect will be cheaper than similar modules by smaller companies.

Until we know more it's difficult to say what impact this might have on the industry as a whole. But we generally think building an accessible bridge between the computer musician and the world of hardware synths and now eurorack synthesizers can only increase the numbers wanting to explore it. Ultimately that should bring more interest and customers to large and small eurorack module manufacturers.

Of course, some smaller eurorack makers might be squeezed out if their more expnsive range of modules compete directly with a cheaper variety. However, the world of modular synths has niche products where price isn't neccessarily the deciding factor for customers. The quality, design and creative potential carry just as much, if not more, weight.

In short, we hope there's room for everyone, from the smaller eurorack makers to the established brands like Mutable, Make Noise, Bastl, to the bigger companies like Roland and Behringer.

What Modules Would You Like Behringer To Make?

So what kinds of modules would you like to see from Behringer? Oscillators, modulators, drum modules, MIDI/CV convertors, individual effect modules (reverb, distortion, delay, etc), sample players, mixers, clones of original 808 drum machine, sequencers, cases with power supply... the possibilities are endless!

 

 

Synthesis 101
The Filter
by Bob Moog Foundation

"Rounik is the Executive Editor for Ask.Audio & macProVideo. He's built a crack team of professional musicians and writers to create one of the most visited online resources for news, review, tutorials and interviews for modern musician and producer. As an Apple Certified Trainer for Logic Pro Rounik has taught teachers, professional..." Read More

Discussion

Ken
The best thing about Eurorack is the delightful kookiness and amazing originality of the multitude of makers in the space. It's not a field Behringer can dominate -- there is too much diversity.
But, if the Behringer kit is any good at all, you'll see a lot of noobs starting out with them. That's not a bad thing, as long as they progress to more interesting stuff as they grow in the hobby.
Some similar existing makers will feel the competitive heat, and will have to innovate to keep their market share. That's likely not a bad thing either.
ivandub
Competition is always good and might help bring down the cost of what, in my opinion, are some very over-priced modules. I think the high cost of getting into the Eurorack format has been discouraging a lot of people. Go for it, Behringer!! Bring out a complete line of "basic" modules, then branch out from there according to demand.
Mortar
I'm already chomping at the bit waiting for Neutron. Now Behringer's adding Eurorack to the mix? I am sooo stoked!
Kyle King
"However, the world of modular synths has niche products where price isn't neccessarily the deciding factir for customers. The quality, design and creative potential carry just as much, if not more, weight."

Factor not factir
JohnDoe
psst Uli, hey Uli! Turn the VCF cutoff slider into a knob! Please! Thanks!
DoubleStop
I am just getting into eurorack .. and I must express the frustration I often feel when I see these wonderful big rack collections with fantastic modules... and I then croak when I see the price tag for just ONE of them. So I do welcome affordable, yet well made modules for those of us thirsting at the edge of the desert. I have a pre-order set for the Neuron, but I'm not letting myself get to optimistic about actually receiving it anytime in the near future. (It sounds like most People are still waiting for the Model D!!! ) ... I have decided that since I lack financial resources, I am making it my goal to build as many DIY modules as I can...Still I really need to fill out my very humble small skiff with lots of holes in it f with as many essentials and utilities that I can...

Want to join the discussion?

Create an account or login to get started!