Behringer PolyEIGHT Analogue Synthesizer

The POLYEIGHT is an analogue eight-voice polyphonic synthesiser inspired by the legendary Korg Polysix, bringing its distinctive early 1980s sound into a modern performance instrument. With eight voices, discrete voltage-controlled oscillators and the iconic 2044 low-pass filter, it delivers warm pads, expressive leads, powerful basses and richly textured analogue sounds.

Each voice offers sawtooth, square and pulse waveforms, with unison, double and poly modes providing flexibility for different playing styles. Built-in bucket brigade delay effects include chorus, phaser and ensemble, adding depth and movement directly to the analogue signal path. A sub oscillator, pulse width modulation and an MS 20-inspired noise generator further expand its sound design possibilities.

The 49-key semi-weighted keyboard combines velocity sensitivity with polyphonic aftertouch for expressive control. A versatile arpeggiator, chord memory, polyphonic portamento and 256 user programme memories make the POLYEIGHT equally suited to studio production and live performance. With comprehensive MIDI implementation, CV and pedal inputs, and an intuitive LCD interface, it combines classic analogue character with extensive programming and connectivity options.

• Eight Voice Analogue Architecture - Discrete VCOs and the classic 2044 low-pass filter deliver warm analogue tones, from deep basses and powerful unison leads to lush polyphonic pads.
• Expressive Performance Keyboard - The 49-key semi-weighted keyboard features velocity sensitivity and polyphonic aftertouch, offering nuanced control over sounds during studio recording and live performances.
• Integrated Effects and Sound Design - Built-in chorus, phaser and ensemble effects combine with a sub oscillator, pulse width modulation and a versatile LFO for expansive sound creation.

Classic Analogue Sound and Voice Modes:

The POLYEIGHT draws inspiration from the distinctive sound of the Korg Polysix, using an analogue signal path built around discrete voltage-controlled oscillators, filters and amplifiers. Each of its eight voices offers sawtooth, square and pulse waveforms, providing a versatile foundation for a wide range of classic synthesiser sounds.

The 2044 low-pass filter provides resonance and positive or negative envelope control for shaping each patch. Unison, double and poly modes let you prioritise different aspects of the instrument, whether you need a powerful eight-oscillator lead, a substantial bass sound or layered polyphonic textures. A sub oscillator reaching two octaves below the fundamental adds further weight, while pulse width modulation and the global noise generator introduce additional tonal variation.

Built-In Effects and Modulation:

Integrated bucket brigade delay effects give the POLYEIGHT the rich, animated character associated with classic analogue synthesisers. Chorus adds width and movement, while phaser and ensemble effects offer further ways to transform the raw oscillator tones into evolving textures. With these effects incorporated into the signal path, sounds can be shaped as part of the overall patch.

The three waveform LFOs provide modulation for pitch, filter cutoff and loudness, supporting everything from subtle movement to pronounced rhythmic effects. Dedicated pulse width modulation adds further control over oscillator character, while the MS 20-inspired noise generator expands the possibilities for atmospheric textures and more complex sounds. Together, these tools make the POLYEIGHT suitable for expressive pads, evolving soundscapes, animated sequences and distinctive analogue leads.

Performance, Programming and Connectivity:

The POLYEIGHT combines hands-on performance controls with extensive programming features. Its 49-key semi-weighted keyboard supports both velocity sensitivity and polyphonic aftertouch, while spring-loaded pitch and modulation wheels provide immediate expressive control. Polyphonic portamento introduces smooth gliding transitions, and chord memory allows stored chords to be triggered from a single key.

The arpeggiator offers up, down and up-down modes, with manual and external tempo control for synchronised performances. A total of 256 user programme memories provide space for custom sounds, while the LCD display and encoder simplify parameter editing. Assignable preset recall switches offer quick access to selected programmes, and the compare and match function helps align the physical controls with saved settings. CV and pedal inputs, alongside comprehensive MIDI control including NRPN and CC support, make integration with external equipment straightforward.

• Product type: Analogue programmable polyphonic synthesiser
• Number of voices: 8
• Oscillator type: Discrete voltage-controlled oscillators
• Waveforms: Sawtooth, square and pulse
• Filter: 2044 low-pass filter with resonance and positive or negative envelope control
• Voice modes: Unison, double and poly
• Effects: Chorus, phaser and ensemble using bucket brigade delay circuitry
• Keyboard: 49 semi-weighted full-size keys
• Keyboard response: Velocity sensitivity and polyphonic aftertouch
• Sub oscillator: Up to two octaves below the fundamental
• Modulation: Pulse width modulation and LFO with three waveforms
• Noise generator: MS 20-inspired design
• Arpeggiator: Up, down and up-down modes with manual and external tempo control
• Programme memory: 256 user programme memories
• Additional functions: Chord memory and polyphonic portamento
• Display: LCD with encoder for parameter editing
• Performance controls: Spring-loaded pitch and modulation wheels
• Preset controls: Assignable preset recall switches
• Control inputs: CV and pedal inputs for expression pedals and footswitches
• MIDI: Comprehensive implementation, including NRPN and CC control of parameters, plus bulk load and save