The Behringer 173 is an exact analog reproduction of the Roland System 100M 173 Quad Gate/Multiples module from the early 1980s. This essential 16 HP utility combines four independent voltage-controlled signal gates (analog switches) with buffered inputs/outputs and six channels of passive multiples (each with one input and three parallel outputs)—perfect for routing audio or CV signals on/off with gates, creating buffered switching, distributing clocks/CV/audio to multiple destinations without loading, or building complex patching without extra cables or modules.
Technical Specifications
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Type | Legendary Analog Quad Gate/Multiples Eurorack Module |
| Eurorack Width | 16 HP |
| Depth | 28 mm (1.1″) |
| Weight | Approx. 0.4 kg (0.88 lbs) / 0.40 lb (some listings) |
| Power Requirements | Eurorack bus (10-pin or 16-pin connector) |
| Current Draw | +12 V: 40 mA, –12 V: 40 mA, +5 V: 0 mA |
| Quad Gate Section (4 identical gates) | |
| Type | Voltage-controlled analog switches (signal gates) |
| Controls per Gate | None (gate controlled only; no manual knobs) |
| Inputs per Gate | 1 × Signal In (buffered audio/CV), 1 × Gate In (positive), 1 × Gate In (inverted/negative) |
| Gate Inputs | 3.5 mm TS, DC coupled, typical 0 V off / +5 V to +10 V on (positive logic); inverted accepts opposite polarity |
| Output per Gate | 1 × Signal Out (buffered), preserves signal integrity for audio or CV |
| Multiples Section | |
| Channels | 6 independent multiples |
| Configuration per Channel | 1 × Input + 3 × parallel Outputs (floating/passive; buffered? No—passive for multiples) |
| Jacks | 3.5 mm TS, total 24 jacks (6 inputs + 18 outputs) |
| Signal Handling | Audio or CV; passive splitting—no buffering or amplification |
| Additional I/O | |
| Total Patch Points | 4 gates × (In + Out + Gate + Inv Gate) = 16 for gates; 6 × (In + 3 Outs) = 24 for multiples; grand total ~40 jacks |
| LEDs | None (classic 100M minimalist design—no indicators) |
Key Features & Signal Flow
- Four buffered signal gates – Each acts as a voltage-controlled switch: gate high = signal passes through buffered (low impedance out); gate low = off. Use for muting audio, chopping CV, creating gated effects, or switching between sources with envelopes/sequencers.
- Positive and inverted gate inputs per switch – Flexibility for direct gate from envelopes or logic inversion without extra modules.
- Six 1-in-3-out multiples – Passive parallel splitting for distributing one signal (clock, LFO, envelope, audio) to up to three destinations cleanly—no signal degradation from stacking cables.
- Buffered gates preserve integrity – Unlike passive switches, buffered outs maintain level and impedance for reliable patching to filters, VCAs, or long cable runs.
- Classic System 100M utility — No-frills, high-quality routing in compact form—essential for organized patching, signal distribution, or building logic/gating without utilities eating rack space.
- Fully patchable, no normalisation — Patch gates to control multiples routing, mult envelopes to multiple VCAs, or use as simple on/off for external gear via gates.
- Versatile applications — Gate audio paths for rhythmic chopping, mult triggers for polyphonic setups, route CV to multiple oscillators for detuned stacks, or create feedback loops with gating.
Resources
- Official Behringer product page: https://www.behringer.com/product.html?modelCode=0720-AAL
- Quick Start Guide (PDF): Available on Behringer downloads or direct link like https://notebook.zoeblade.com/Downloads/Documentation/Behringer/173_Quad_Gate_Multiples_quick_start_guide.pdf
- ModularGrid page: https://modulargrid.net/e/behringer-system-100-173-quad-gate-multiples (search for user ratings and discussions)
- Retailer pages (Sweetwater, Thomann, B&H Photo, Vintage King): Detailed specs, user reviews, demo videos, and patch ideas
- Demo videos: Search YouTube for “Behringer 173 Quad Gate Multiples” (routing examples, gating demos, multiples usage)
The Behringer 173 is a must-have utility module—affordable, space-efficient, and true to the original Roland design. Whether completing a System 100 clone or decluttering your rack with reliable gates and mults, it’s an instant workflow booster. Highly recommended for any modular system!
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