Behringer EDGE
The Behringer EDGE is an analog semi-modular percussion synthesizer designed for creating fat grooves and rhythms. Built with a pure analog signal path, it features dual oscillators (VCOs) that produce pulse and triangle waves, along with a multi-mode 24 dB resonant ladder filter.
At the core of its rhythm generation is a dual 8-step sequencer featuring pitch and velocity controls, which can reach extreme speeds of up to 10,000 BPM for audio-range waveform generation. While its semi-modular design allows for immediate playability without patching, it also provides incredible flexibility with a 15 x 10 I/O matrix and 44 physical controls for real-time sound manipulation.
The Behringer EDGE is widely recognized in the synthesizer community as a highly affordable clone of the Moog DFAM (Drummer From Another Mother). It replicates the DFAM’s core architecture—specifically its approach to semi-modular analog percussion synthesis and its distinctive 8-step sequencer workflow. However, the EDGE does build upon this foundation by adding modern conveniences like USB and a comprehensive MIDI implementation.
Basics
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To establish a standard 4/4 house-style beat, turn up the velocity on steps 1 and 5, and then patch the pitch output directly into the noise level input, allowing you to play a kick and snare simultaneously by letting the noise through whenever the pitch is set high (step 5).
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To create a groove, Baseck introduces the second oscillator by turning up the VCO2 level. He then adds more velocity and turns up the pitch specifically on steps 7 and 8 to get the groove started. To further develop the rhythm and sound, he experiments with turning up the noise level, adjusting the VCF decay, and mixing the oscillators back in
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He ends the video with a bit of a jam session adjusting the various parts to change the qualities of the sound to suit.
Inspiration
- Behringer EDGE is completely controlled by MIDI and used as a melodic instrument. I like some of the demos, almost in the Royksopp style I like.