Behringer have recently announced a number of new releases, from new versions of their 2600 remake to a resurrection of their own classic hardware controller, the BCR2000.
Blue Marvin and Gray Meanie 2600 Editions
Behringer’s 2600 remake may have just recently been released but the company is not content to let that be that. This week, they announced two new editions, the Blue Marvin and Gray Meanie. Both are inspired by early (and very limited) revisions of ARP’s classic semi-modular synthesizer, the 2600. The new Behringer monosynths will reportedly include adjustable single-colour LEDs on the faders, a real spring reverb inside (as opposed to their original’s DSP), and improved components alongside the obvious new front-panel colours.
Both the Blue Marvin and Gray Meanie will retail for $699, $100 more than the base-model 2600 (and quite a bit cheaper than Korg’s recently announced ARP 2600 M). They are expected to start shipping in February 2021.
BCR32
Behringer’s original hardware controller BCR2000 is something of a classic, thanks in no small part to the third-party sequencer upgrade known as Zaquencer. Behringer have now announced that they’ll be working with upgrade programmer ZAQ Audio to create a new controller/sequencer, the BCR32. It looks to have 32 knobs as well as MIDI in/out/thru and four sets of CV/gate sockets, indicating four tracks.
Behringer are promising a price point of $149. There is no indication of ship date yet.
VCS3
Behringer recently shared prototype images of its long-promised VCS3 clone. It looks remarkably like the original with its famous pin matrix and colourful knobs. It reportedly will feature real wood as well as a mechanical spring reverb, as in the new 2600 editions. Behringer claim to be working with a well-known VCS3 modder from the UK to add extra functionality. As it’s still in the prototype stage, there’s no mention of a price or street date.
RSF Kobol
Lastly, Behringer teased an image on Facebook of a new prototype synthesizer. While much of the instrument is covered with streamers and paper hats for New Years, the word “Kobol” is clearly visible on a badge on the upper right of the keyboard. That would be the RSF Kobol, a rare and rather coveted French monosynth from 1978. The synth appears to have the same configuration as Behringer’s recent Poly D and MonoPoly instruments. No pricing or release information is yet available.
See the Behringer site for more.