Behringer UB-Xa and more synth treats hinted for release
The Behringer UB-Xa is the latest gear in a growing list that has been turning heads recently, particularly in synthesizer circles and their bold steps have won a lot of interest.
First, they turned the synth-world on its head when they announced an accurate replica of the Moog Model-D in the form of their own aptly named – Model D, then the Oberheim OB-Xa in the form of the Behringer UB-Xa, and now they have hinted at something particularly interesting for anyone who was captivated by the previous announcements.
Behringer have hinted at a standalone effects solution, and after their recent acquisition of both TC Electronics and Klark Teknik alongside the release of some stellar analog gear – one question remains.
Will it be analog or digital?
The hint was dropped on Facebook by Uli Behringer himself, cryptically hidden within a post about the new front-panel layout they are testing for the UB-Xa (Behringer’s replica of the OB-Xa).
Here’s what he said:
“Please find attached a new front panel layout, which includes many of your suggestions. However, we decided not to integrate effects in order to retain the authenticity of the original instrument. When it comes to effects, we might be able to surprise you with a very cool solution in the near future :-)”
Two key things to look forward to from Behringer
So, it looks like we will soon have an affordable outboard effects solution as well as an authentic replica of the OB-Xa. That would be a huge drawcard for the sound. Personally, I’m not so sure about the controls – I’m not a big fan of the increment style input, rotary encoders are much more playable. A separate MIDI controller is a quick and easy fix for that, I guess that comes down to preference.
The Oberheim OB-Xa employs a Curtis CEM3320 chip, similar to the chips you will find in Behringer’s new Neutron synth, who knows what previously rare and expensive features we will start seeing in Behringer’s new gear in the future!
Judging by the recent releases from Behringer, I’m guessing the Behringer UB-Xa will be affordable especially considering an original OB-Xa will set you back around R 50,000 (if you’re lucky).
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