Behringer Crave Analog Semi-Modular Synthesizer

Description

Although small and unimposing, the Behringer Crave bursts with the kind of capability and flexibility that betrays its 12 desktop size by a mile. More of a mosaic of vintage design elements than a tribute or clone of any particular vintage analog classic–Crave can satisfy your desire for 70s and 80s style mono-synth operation and then some.

The simple and easy-to-use control surface is divided into logical and well-mapped sections for each function, with connectivity options like MIDI, USB, and a 14-in/18-out semi-modular patch bay across the top. Starting with the Oscillator section, Crave features a Curtis-style analog 3340 chip VCO with an 8-octave range capable of generating pulse and triangle waveforms alongside a white noise generator. The VCF section has a 24Db hi/low pass 4-pole ladder style filter capable of super fat and punchy tones, with resonance and self-modulation functions. The unique envelope section operates as a variable 2 or 4-stage ASDR, with an on/off control for sustain, and the variable rate LFO features square or triangle waves that can be mixed with patch cables. Additionally, the utility/mixer section features glide and VC mix, which opens up a world of flexibility. Along the bottom row lies a 32-step sequencer with 64 storage slots, a wide pattern arpeggiator with LED indicator, plus an active worth of push pads with accents for easy programming. Best of all, Crave is priced well below anything in its class.