The Behringer 130 is an authentic analog recreation of the Roland System 100M 130 Dual VCA module from the early 1980s. It packs two independent voltage-controlled amplifiers into a slim 16 HP, each with a built-in 3-channel audio mixer, three CV inputs with attenuators, manual gain control, switchable linear/exponential response, dual outputs (low/high impedance), and signal/clip LEDs for monitoring. Perfect for dynamic amplitude control, mixing multiple sources before amplification, stereo panning setups, or adding that vintage Roland response curve flexibility to any Eurorack patch.
Technical Specifications
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Type | Legendary Analog Dual VCA Eurorack Module |
| Eurorack Width | 16 HP |
| Depth | 44 mm (1.7″) |
| Weight | Approx. 0.5 kg (1.1 lbs) |
| Power Requirements | Eurorack bus (10-pin or 16-pin connector) |
| Current Draw | +12 V: 30 mA, –12 V: 20 mA, +5 V: 0 mA |
| VCA 1 & VCA 2 (identical) | |
| Response Curve | Switchable: Linear / Exponential |
| Controls | GAIN (manual initial level), 3 × SIG LEVEL (attenuators for audio inputs) |
| Audio Inputs | 3 × 3.5 mm TS per VCA (summed with individual attenuators), >50 kΩ unbalanced |
| CV Inputs | 3 × 3.5 mm TS per VCA (summed with individual attenuators), typical 0 V to +10 V range |
| Audio Outputs | 2 × 3.5 mm TS per VCA: • Low: Higher impedance (Eurorack-friendly, lower level) • High: Lower impedance (hotter output for mixers/external gear) |
| Additional Features | |
| Indicators | Signal present (green) / Clip (red) LEDs per VCA |
| Total Patch Points | 12 audio inputs (6 total), 6 CV inputs (3 per VCA), 4 outputs (2 per VCA) |
| Signal Path | Each VCA: 3 audio ins → mixer → VCA (gain + CV control) → low/high outs |
Key Features & Signal Flow
- Two independent VCAs – Process separate signals (e.g., stereo pairs, multiple oscillators) or chain them for complex dynamics.
- Built-in 3-channel mixers – Mix up to three audio sources directly into each VCA without extra modules; individual level controls for precise balancing.
- Triple CV modulation per VCA – Attenuated inputs allow envelopes, LFOs, sequencers, and more to shape amplitude with fine control.
- Linear vs Exponential switch – Linear for clean, accurate volume changes (great for percussion or CV processing); Exponential for natural-sounding musical swells and decays.
- Dual outputs – Low-level for modular patching, high-level for direct connection to mixers or line-level gear—versatile integration.
- Signal/Clip LEDs – Visual feedback prevents distortion and helps dial in levels quickly.
- Classic System 100M character – Smooth, musical VCAs with that warm 80s analog feel—excellent for snappy gates, fading pads, or sidechain-style effects.
Resources
- Official Behringer product page: https://www.behringer.com/product.html?modelCode=0720-AAH
- Quick Start Guide (PDF): Available on Behringer downloads or direct links like https://notebook.zoeblade.com/Downloads/Documentation/Behringer/130_Dual_VCA_quick_start_guide.pdf
- ModularGrid page: https://modulargrid.net/e/behringer-system-100-130-dual-vca
- Retailer pages (Sweetwater, Thomann, B&H Photo): Specs, user reviews, demo videos, and sound clips
- Demo videos: Search YouTube for “Behringer 130 Dual VCA” (unboxings, patch examples, linear vs expo comparisons)
The Behringer 130 is a powerhouse utility module—affordable, feature-packed, and true to the original Roland design. Whether you’re building a complete System 100 clone or just need reliable, versatile VCAs with mixing, it’s a fantastic addition to any rack. Highly recommended!
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