This is a “design study only” so it doesn’t mean they will sell this. It’s interesting that Yamaha recently announced something very similar – that they were seeking potential user feedback on possible redesigns of a CS-80. I wonder which of the two sparked this, i’ve got to believe there is at least some relationship between the two moves.
To the extent that Behringer’s activity generates movement from other large and established companies, this is all to the good. Roland seems to have taken on some activity too.
Side Benefit to Behringer being in the Synth Business
On the latest Sonic Talk #585 toward the end of the show, Kent Spong who runs a classic synth repair business points out the tremendous benefit Behringer has given to the classic synth owner, by allowing people to acquire various difficult and expensive repair parts for classic synths very inexpensively. Interesting perspective on things, that.
Just so it’s clear to anyone wondering what this is – it’s Maelstorm, which in short description was to be:
An Analog and Digital Desktop FX Processor with 4 TC ELECTRONIC FX Engines, MIDAS Microphone Preamplifiers and 6 x 6 USB/Audio Interface
Sounds to me a collection of already existing Behringer pieces put together in one box.
List of Features of Behringer Maelstorm
Record, transform, tweak your synthesizer, guitar or vocals and bring your audio to life using the ultimate in analogue and digital signal processing
4 simultaneous world-class TC ELECTRONIC and KLARK TEKNIK FX featuring over 30 algorithms with incredible integrated modulation matrix
2 high quality, professional MIDAS microphone preamplifiers with instrument input, high-pass filter and phantom power
6 x 6 channel USB/Audio/MIDI interface (Class 2.0 compliant) for highest signal integrity
Multiple classic analog distortion circuits add character and warmth ranging from subtle glow to grimy filth
Stereo VCF using legendary 3320 based filter design, low/high/band-pass modes, frequency and resonance controls for immense sound sculpting possibilities
Excels at stand-alone operation or part of a DAW based system, combining 4-channel analog and 6-channel USB I/O with extensive side-chain and routing options
Stereo FX send and return channels for enhanced DAW integration over ultra-low latency USB/Audio Interface
Insane vortex of modulation featuring 3 ADSR generators, 2 LFOs, 32-step Control Sequencer and MIDI to warp both analog and digital effect parameters in real-time
6 endless rotation potentiometers, each with high resolution OLED display for precise control of all parameters
Create powerful parameter macros allowing multiple parameters to be controlled from a single rotary, MIDI controller or external CV via the modulation matrix
Full color LCD display with encoder for rapid parameter editing and program selection
Integrate with modular systems using assignable, external CV & trigger input and outputs
Fully servo-balanced stereo line outputs for highest signal integrity
2 footswitch/expression pedal inputs, assignable to mod matrix or control functions
Comprehensive MIDI implementation including NRPN/CC control of all parameters and bulk load/save
Now this information is all 19 months old. Far as i’m aware there has been no more word and no pictures.
What I don’t get is wtf I’d actually OUT yet? I keep hearing (and seeing videos) about their 808 and 909, ms101, many others but they don’t seem to be available yet? A buddy of mine wants to get into synths and I recommended the ms 101 but was confused to not see it for sale. And the RDs were supposed to come out back in March?
see… now I actually was giving them enough credit to think they were doing something innovative by ripping off a software synthesizer for once. by which I mean Reason’s Malström graintable synth, of course.