Synthesizer Hardware
Behringer – Solina – Notes
The Behringer SOLINA STRING ENSEMBLE is a faithful analog recreation of the iconic 1970s ARP/Eminent Solina String Ensemble (also known as ARP String Ensemble), famous for its lush, chorused string pads heard on countless prog rock, new wave, and ambient records. This desktop/semi-modular unit delivers 49-voice polyphony via classic divide-down octave technology, six selectable instrument tones (violin, viola, trumpet, horn, cello, contrabass), a built-in multi-stage BBD chorus ensemble, vintage-style phaser (inspired by Small Stone), sub-octave generation, and extensive CV/mod I/O—plus full Eurorack compatibility (70 HP when housing removed). With MIDI/USB, individual gate/trig outs, and effects patch points, it’s ideal for dreamy pads, orchestral layers, or modular integration as a polyphonic string voice or effects processor.
Technical Specifications
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Type | Classic Analog String Ensemble Synthesizer (inspired by ARP/Eminent Solina MK II) |
| Polyphony | 49-voice polyphonic (divide-down from 13-tone generator); monophonic for contrabass/cello in some modes |
| Format | Desktop / Eurorack-convertible (70 HP module width when housing removed) |
| Dimensions (H × W × D) | 3.7″ × 14.7″ × 5.4″ (93 mm × 374 mm × 136 mm) |
| Weight | 1.6 kg (3.5 lbs) |
| Power Supply | External 12 V DC adapter (included, 1000 mA) |
| Power Consumption | 10 W |
| Tone Section | |
| Instruments | Contrabass, Cello, Viola, Violin, Trumpet, Horn (selectable via buttons; combinable) |
| Controls | Tune (fine tuning), Volume (main), Bass Volume, Crescendo (attack swell), Sustain (release time) |
| Sub-Octave | Built-in generator for deeper bass tones |
| Effects | |
| Chorus/Ensemble | BBD-based multi-stage chorus with Rate and Color/Intensity controls |
| Phaser | Vintage-style phaser (Small Stone-inspired) with Rate control; patchable I/O |
| Modulation & I/O | |
| MIDI | 5-pin DIN In / Thru (16 channels); USB Type B (Class Compliant) |
| Audio Outputs | Main: 1/4″ TRS balanced/unbalanced (max ~12 dBu, 1 kΩ); Headphones: 3.5 mm TRS |
| CV/Gate Outputs | Gate Out (3.5 mm TS, 0–5 V), Trig Out (3.5 mm TS) |
| Patch Points (3.5 mm TS) | Mod In/Out, Phaser In/Out, VCA CV In, Stereo Audio Out (effects sections patchable) |
| Other Controls | Voice Priority selection, MIDI channel assignment |
| Additional Features | Removable housing for Eurorack mounting; comprehensive MIDI implementation; analog signal path throughout |
Key Features & Signal Flow
- 49-voice divide-down polyphony — Classic organ-style tech generates rich, layered strings from a single high-frequency oscillator—unlimited note holds without voice stealing.
- Six combinable tones — Mix violin/viola for shimmering strings, add trumpet/horn for brass swells, or layer cello/contrabass for deep orchestral pads.
- Authentic effects — Bucket-brigade chorus for that signature watery ensemble shimmer; phaser for psychedelic sweeps—both with independent I/O for external patching.
- Expressive controls — Crescendo for slow-attack swells, bass volume for low-end emphasis, sustain for long decays—perfect for ambient washes or chordal stabs.
- Modular/Eurorack ready — Remove housing to install in 70 HP case; patch VCA CV for dynamic control, use gate/trig outs to trigger envelopes, or route effects sections separately.
- MIDI integration — Play polyphonically from keyboards/sequencers; USB for DAW connectivity.
- Classic analog warmth — Raw, slightly gritty 70s character—great for Pink Floyd-esque pads, Cure-style chorused layers, or modern ambient/electronic textures.
- Patchable effects — Break out chorus/phaser for processing external audio or CV modulation.
Resources
- Official Behringer product page: https://www.behringer.com/product.html?modelCode=0718-AAM
- Quick Start Guide (PDF): Available on Behringer downloads or mirrors like https://notebook.zoeblade.com/Downloads/Documentation/Behringer/Solina_String_Ensemble_quick_start_guide.pdf
- ModularGrid page: Search “Behringer Solina” on modulargrid.net (user patches and Eurorack discussions)
- Retailer pages (Sweetwater, Thomann, Perfect Circuit, Vintage King): Specs, user reviews, demo videos, and sound clips
- Demo videos: Search YouTube for “Behringer Solina String Ensemble demo” (official overviews, pad examples, phaser/chorus patches, comparisons to original ARP Solina)
The Behringer SOLINA STRING ENSEMBLE revives the legendary 70s string machine sound in a compact, affordable, and modular-friendly package—delivering instant lush pads and orchestral magic without the vintage hunt. A dream for ambient, prog, synthwave, or any genre needing epic analog strings. Highly recommended for pad lovers and modular enthusiasts!
