Behringer MonoPoly

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Four-Voice Analog Synthesizer

37 Velocity-sensitive full-size keys
4 Oscillators, each with triangle, sawtooth and pulse waveforms (including pulse width modulation), octave selector switch, controls for fine tuning and volume
Oscillators can be played in unison (with chord memory) and polyphonically
Oscillator synchronisation and cross modulation with adjustable intensity
Noise generator
Low-pass filter with resonance and adjustable keyboard tracking
2 ADSR envelopes for VCF & VCA
LFO 1 with 4 waveforms (triangle, square, rising and falling sawtooth) and adjustable intensity via modulation wheel
LFO 2 with triangular waveform for pulse width modulation
Arpeggiator
Pitch and modulation wheel
Adjustable control panel
Dimensions (W x D x H): 648 x 361 x 90 mm
Weight: 10.3 kg
Includes external power supply unit (12 V DC)
Suitable optional case: Art.512982 (not included)

Connections:

Line output: 6.3 mm mono jack
Headphone output: 6.3 mm stereo jack
CV and trigger inputs / outputs: 6.3 mm mono jack
CV inputs for VCO FM and VCF cutoff modulation: 6.3 mm mono jack
Foot switch input for portamento: 6.3 mm mono jack
Arpeggiator sync input: 6.3 mm mono jack
MIDI In / Out / Thru
USB-B port

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee

3-Year Thomann Warranty

Available since December 2020

Item number 493802

Sales Unit 1 piece(s)

Number Of Keys 37

Touch-Sensitive Yes

Aftertouch No

Split Zones No

Modulation Wheel Yes

Number of simultaneous Voices 4

Sound Engine Analogue

MIDI interface 1x In, 1x Out, 1x Thru

Storage Medium None

USB-port Yes

Effects None

Arpeggiator Yes

Number of Analog Outputs 1

Digital Output No

Display No

Pedal Connections 1

Dimensions 648 x 361 x 90 mm

Weight 10,3 kg

£369

All prices incl. VAT

Delivery free of charge expected between Thursday, 28.11. and Friday, 29.11.

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A modern reincarnation of the 4-VCO classic

The name says it all: The original 1982 Mono/Poly was a monophonic analogue synthesizer that could also be played polyphonically. The trick behind this feat was that its four VCOs could each be assigned to an individual voice before being sent through the filter and VCA stages together. At the time, this concept made the Mono/Poly an inexpensive alternative not only to contemporary large polyphonic synths, but also to its monophonic competitors such as the Minimoog and the ARP Odyssey. During the 90s, the Mono/Poly became something of an insider secret on the dance scene, since its four VCOs could produce a powerful bass response and rich lead sounds. As a result, its price rose steadily on the second-hand market. Behringer's MonoPoly is a largely faithful recreation of the original classic that makes this characterful synthesizer available to everyone once again while adding a few updated features.

Unison, polyphony, and chords

The Mono/Poly was remarkably well equipped for an 80s analogue synthesizer. Its four VCOs with sync and cross-modulation functions, along with its distinctive resonance filter, made it stand out from the crowd. This synth certainly has character and can even sound pretty aggressive when needed. The Key Assign Mode switches between the monophonic Unison and paraphonic Poly modes, as well as a combined Share mode. The Chord Memory function is a specific setting in Unison mode: Up to four-part chords can be programmed and then played with a single key. This is a very popular feature, especially in House music and other minimalist styles, which can be expressed creatively and flexibly in conjunction with the integrated arpeggiator.

An affordable replica

Until now, the dream of owning an original Mono/Poly has not been an easy one to fulfil, since the original units are rather rare and the few that can be found generally fetch very high prices. The Behringer MonoPoly is a truly affordable version of the classic, and can thus be easily acquired by small studios and taken on tour without having to worry. In addition, modern features have been added, including MIDI and USB capability, inputs and outputs for CV/gate control and synchronisation, and a flip-up panel which makes the synth more easily operable when playing or adjusting the sound. This straightforward synthesizer will appeal primarily to musicians looking for an expressive mono synth and has the further advantage that one can create simple soundscapes and chords quickly and easily. The arpeggiator and Chord Memory function interact perfectly when it comes to sequencer-oriented tracks, as they can be effortlessly synchronised.

About Behringer

The company, which was founded in Germany by Uli Behringer and now manufactures its products in China, has been known for affordable and great-value equipment since its very first product, the Studio Exciter F. An array of mixing consoles (such as the Eurodesk MX8000), signal processors, and later sound amplification and monitoring equipment, has made it possible for countless musicians to fit out their home studios, practice rooms, and mobile PAs within budget limits that were previously unthinkable. The acquisition of other companies, including Midas, Klark Teknik, and TC Electronic, meant that new product groups were added - and also resulted in the technical expertise of these companies being incorporated into product development.

Compact (poly)-keyboard

With its 37 keys, the MonoPoly is well adapted to lead solo and bass line playing. However, the keyboard also has sufficient range for simple chords. Its real strength lies in this combination of paraphonic mode and Chord Memory function. In conjunction with the arpeggiator, complex patterns can quickly be put together. Controlling the synthesizer with a multi-track analogue sequencer allows separate rhythmic control of the filter and VCO FM. When the panel is folded down, the MonoPoly is ready to travel and can be taken to live gigs or to the project studio without any problems.

In the spotlight: Is paraphonic equivalent to polyphonic?

A polyphonic synthesizer requires all of its component sound generators, i.e. oscillators, filters, VCAs, envelopes, and LFOs to be present for each voice. With a paraphonic synthesizer, on the other hand, only the oscillators are assigned to a respective voice and the other components are shared. The oscillators can therefore be played independently of one another, whereas the post-processing elements such as filters, VCAs, and modulations remain the same for all of the voices. This generally goes unnoticed in practice, for example when playing chords or making moderate use of the filter. However, this may not be the case when using slow envelope times and deep filter sweeps, when the sound of sustaining notes is affected by new notes that are played.

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41 Reviews

A timeless classic reincarnated

Synthscape 10.12.2021

Having owned the original "back then" i am thrilled with this one.
It is so well made and clearly comes very very close to the feel and sound i remember .... i love it.

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MonoPoly - a different Game!

CovilStudio 10.06.2024

The Behringer MonoPoly is a modern reinterpretation of the classic Korg Mono/Poly synthesizer, renowned for its unique sound and powerful features. As someone deeply interested in synthesizers, I was excited to explore what the MonoPoly had to offer, and it certainly impressed me on multiple fronts.

First off, the build quality of the MonoPoly is excellent. Behringer has managed to capture the essence of the original design while incorporating some modern touches. The unit feels sturdy and reliable, with a layout that's both intuitive and familiar to fans of the original synth.

Sonically, the MonoPoly delivers in spades. It retains the distinctive character of the original instrument, with its rich and warm analog tones perfect for everything from thick basslines to ethereal pads. The inclusion of authentic VCOs (Voltage-Controlled Oscillators) and filters ensures that it captures the essence of the original Mono/Poly while also offering some modern enhancements.

One of the standout features of the MonoPoly is its polyphonic capabilities. Unlike the original Mono/Poly, which was monophonic with a unique "Poly" mode, the Behringer version allows for true polyphony, opening up new creative possibilities. The ability to play chords and harmonies adds a whole new dimension to the instrument's sonic palette.

Another highlight of the MonoPoly is its extensive modulation capabilities. With four VCOs, a versatile filter section, and a wide range of modulation sources and destinations, I've been able to create complex and evolving sounds with ease. The inclusion of a built-in arpeggiator and sequencer further expands its creative potential, allowing for intricate patterns and rhythms.

Overall, the Behringer MonoPoly is a fantastic synthesizer that pays homage to a classic instrument while also offering modern features and enhancements. Whether you're a seasoned synthesist or a newcomer to the world of analog synthesis, the MonoPoly is sure to inspire creativity and exploration.

Highly recommended!

JUST DO IT!

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A versatile beast!

Mark1402 22.09.2023

I bought this a while back, but was touring with work, so it sat idle, but I’m now getting to grips with it and love it. I still can’t decide if I like it more than my Poly D, but I’m glad I chose it and it was a bargain, compared to some of Thomann’s competitors, so literally quids in! Buy one, you’ll be very pleased that you did!

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Oh, my word..

Louie Louie 05.03.2021

This thing is just perfect.
Perfect. Thank you Uli B and thanks Thomann.
Just waiting for the Behringer time machine where I go back to being 21.

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Behringer MonoPoly

Four-Voice Analog Synthesizer