There are so many views on Behringer´s approach on cloning the classics, but regardless of that this is truly a synth that we´ve been waiting for. We have for long used the Arturia soft-synth version, but adding that tactile feeling of turning the knobs will definitely make this a top next purchase.

Behringer yesterday announced that its 2-XM, a Euro format knockoff of the classic Oberheim Two Voice synthesizer, is now shipping.

Here’s what they have to say about it:

“The original design consisted of two single-voice modules coupled together. With its 37-note keyboard, it was a considerable size but introduced a feature no other synth was capable of at the time: polyphony.

The 2-XM combines all the features of the original with all the awesome stuff that we’ve all come to love in modern synths, such as MIDI and USB implementation, stereo, as well as a ton of CV and GATE ins and outs that’ll allow you to transform and shape sounds any way you want!”

First look:

And all the details:

Classic Polyphonic Analog Synthesizer with 4 VCOs, 2 Multi-Mode VCFs, 2 LFOs and 4 Envelopes in Eurorack Format

2-XM
It’s the polyphonic synth that started it all and one that’s sure to jumpstart your legendary synthesizer adventure! The Behringer 2-XM is a classic polyphonic analog synthesizer inspired by iconic ’70s designs used by the greats such as Vince Clarke, Jan Hammer, and Vangelis.

Faithful Recreation and More
The original design consisted of two single-voice modules coupled together. With its 37-note keyboard, it was a considerable size but introduced a feature no other synth was capable of at the time: polyphony. The 2-XM combines all the features of the original with all the awesome stuff that we’ve all come to love in modern synths, such as MIDI and USB implementation, stereo, as well as a ton of CV and GATE ins and outs that’ll allow you to transform and shape sounds any way you want!

Double Everything!
The 2-XM comes with 4 VCOs, 4 envelope generators, 2 LFOs, and 2 multi-mode VCFs across two synthesizer expander modules. These two voices can be combined for some sweet two-voice polyphony, split, or have the 4 oscillators in unison for some truly intricate layering and rich, vintage analog tones!

Starting Your Sonic Sculpture
Each VCO can be shaped in many different and exciting ways with their adjustable frequency, modulation and pulse width controls. And when you want a spicy lead sound, the oscillators can be synced to add even more nuance to your waveforms.

Just the Right Frequency
Of course, the 2-XM doesn’t stop there. The VCFs provide another slew of adjustable settings! Aside from the Frequency, Modulation and Resonance controls, each VCF comes with an amazing multi-mode filter; turning the knob all the way to the left selects the low-pass filter, turning it the other way selects the high-pass filter and setting it at 12 o’clock selects the notch filter. You can even set the VCF to band-pass mode with the flip of a switch.

Quadruple Envelopment!
Along with all the controls at your fingertips the 2-XM also includes a total of four envelope generators to help further craft your sound and introduce subtle nuance or percussiveness with the included Attack, Decay and Sustain controls. In addition, the VCA switch allows you to toggle between envelope control or VCA which overrides ENV 1. You can even plug in an external VCA control to really dial it in.

2-Channel Mixer
Speaking of dialing it in, we’ve also included a 2-channel mixer section where you can control level and pan controls for each module. They even feature a portamento function for some cool pitch gliding effects. Extensive Modulation
With all the 2-XMs extensive controls, we just couldn’t help but add more, and we mean a lot more! Each module comes with a huge amount of CV and GATE Ins and Outs as well as extensive modulation capabilities from both internal and external sources. And because the 2-XM is so compact, you can easily integrate it into your existing setup, patching in your favorite modules to create some awesome waveforms! Eurorack Ready
Designed to handle the rigors of life on the road or in the studio, your 2-XM can easily be transferred into a standard Eurorack case for the perfect integration into your existing system.

Features:

• Copies synthesizer circuitry from the ‘70s
• Analog signal path(VCO, VCF and VCA)
• 2 independent voices for polyphonic, split or 4 oscillator unison sounds
• 2 variable oscillator shapes with adjustable pulse width
• Oscillator sync
• 2 multi-mode filters with low-pass, high-pass, band-pass and notch modes
• 2 analog LFOs with sine waveform
• 4 analog envelope generators for control of filters and amplifiers
• Noise generator
• Extensive modulation capabilities, including internal and external sources
• 2-channel mixer section featuring level and pan controls for intense stereo sounds
• Portamento for pitch gliding effects
• 2 external audio inputs for processing external sound sources
• Dedicated audio outputs plus a combined stereo output
• CV and GATE In/Outs
• 16-voice Poly Chain allows combining multiple synthesizers for up to 32 voice polyphony
• Eurorack compatibler – main module can be transferred to a standard Eurorack case
• 67 controls to give you direct and real-time access to important parameters
• MIDI and USB implementation with MIDI channel and Voice Priority selection

Pricing and Availability:

The Behringer 2-XM is shipping now, with a global list price of $319 and and a US list price of $399. It typically takes a month or two for their shipping synths to become available at retailers.