Synthesizer Hardware
Behringer – 2600 Analog Semi-modular Synthesizer – Notes
The Behringer 2600 is a faithful analog recreation of the iconic ARP 2600 semi-modular synthesizer from the 1970s. This desktop/rack-mount beast delivers the same fat, versatile tones with three voltage-controlled oscillators, a multi-mode resonant filter, extensive patching capabilities, envelopes, LFO, ring mod, sample & hold, voltage processors, and more—all in a compact 19″ rack format. With normalled signal paths for instant playability and 93 patch points for deep experimentation, it’s a powerhouse for sound design, from classic leads and basses to experimental textures.
Technical Specifications
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Type | Semi-Modular Analog Synthesizer (inspired by ARP 2600) |
| Polyphony | Monophonic / Duophonic Mode |
| Format | Desktop / 8U Rack-Mount (19″ width) |
| Dimensions (H × W × D) | 4.3″ × 19″ × 14″ (109 mm × 483 mm × 356 mm) |
| Weight | 11.22 lbs (5.09 kg) approx. |
| Power Supply | 12 V DC (included external adapter) |
| Oscillators (3 × VCO) | |
| Waveforms | Sawtooth, Pulse (with PWM), Triangle, Sine; FM and sync capabilities |
| PWM | On Osc 2 and Osc 3; manual and CV control |
| Frequency Controls | Coarse & Fine tune per oscillator; Low-frequency mode switch |
| Sync | Oscillator sync (hard sync) on Osc 2 & 3 |
| Modulation Inputs | FM inputs (CV range -10 V to +10 V); PWM inputs (-5 V to +5 V, 1 V/10%) |
| Noise Generator | White Noise, Pink Noise, Low Frequency Noise |
| Filter (VCF) | 24 dB/octave Low-Pass Resonant Filter; switchable between two modes: • 4012-style (Moog-inspired, ~16 kHz cutoff) • 4075-style (~11 kHz cutoff) |
| Controls | Cutoff Frequency, Resonance |
| Audio Inputs | Multiple (5 × 3.5 mm TS, 50 kΩ unbalanced) |
| CV Inputs | 3 × 3.5 mm TS (CV range -10 V to +10 V) |
| Envelopes | ADSR Envelope Generator; AR Envelope Generator; Time Factor control |
| LFO | Dedicated LFO with Square and Triangle waveshapes |
| VCA | Linear Voltage-Controlled Amplifier |
| Other Modules | Ring Modulator; Sample & Hold; Voltage Processor (inverter, lag, etc.); Envelope Follower; Preamp for external signals; 5-channel Mixer |
| Effects | Digital Spring Reverb emulation (some editions feature mechanical spring reverb) |
| I/O | |
| Audio Outputs | 2 × 1/4″ TS (L/R); 2 × 1/8″ TS (L/R) |
| Headphones | 1 × 1/8″ TRS |
| MIDI | In / Thru / USB (Class Compliant); MIDI channel DIP switch |
| Patch Points | 93 × 3.5 mm TS jacks (audio & CV) |
| Pedal Inputs | 2 × 1/4″ TRS (Interval Latch, Portamento) |
| USB | 1 × Type B (for MIDI & Synthtribe software) |
| Software | Synthtribe (editor/librarian) |
| OS Requirements – Mac | OS X 10.6.8 or later |
| OS Requirements – PC | Windows 7 SP1 or later |
Key Features & Signal Flow
- Semi-modular architecture – Internally normalled signal path (VCOs → Mixer → VCF → VCA → Output) lets you play without patching; break normals anywhere for custom routing.
- Authentic ARP 2600 character – Switchable filter types capture both classic Moog and later ARP tones; rich oscillator sync, ring mod, and noise options for everything from fat basses to sci-fi effects.
- Extensive patching – 93 patch points unlock advanced techniques like complex modulation, self-patching, external signal processing, and voltage mangling.
- Versatile modulation – Dedicated LFO, two envelopes (ADSR + AR), sample & hold, envelope follower, and voltage processors for dynamic, evolving sounds.
- Modern conveniences – MIDI/USB connectivity, rack-mountable design, included patch cables in some bundles, and digital reverb emulation (or mechanical in special editions like Gray Meanie/Blue Marvin).
- Multiple editions – Standard black, limited Gray Meanie (mechanical spring reverb), Blue Marvin (selected components), etc.
Resources
- Official Behringer product page: https://www.behringer.com/product.html?modelCode=P0DNJ
- Quick Start Guide (PDF): Available on Behringer downloads or sites like B&H Photo
- ModularGrid / user discussions: Search “Behringer 2600” on modulargrid.net
- Retailer pages (Sweetwater, Thomann, Perfect Circuit): Detailed photos, reviews, and bundles
- Synthtribe software: Download from Behringer for patch management and MIDI setup
The Behringer 2600 brings legendary ARP tones to a modern, affordable package—perfect for beginners diving into semi-modular patching or pros wanting that classic analog warmth without the vintage price tag. Highly recommended for any synth enthusiast!
