NEWS  Musical Instruments  November 21, 2023  Reading time: 2 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

Behringer has officially presented the UB-Xa, an impressive replication of the iconic Oberheim OB-Xa poly analog synthesizer, boasting a 16-voice capacity and polyphonic aftertouch. After six years in development, this release marks Behringer's significant venture into the synthesizer realm. This official announcement signals the commencement of production, with global distribution to dealers imminent. However, prospective buyers will need to exercise patience as the synth won't be immediately available for purchase.

Delving into the features of the UB-Xa, it's not just a mere mirror image of the OB-Xa. The UB-Xa distinguishes itself with a robust 16-voice analog polyphonic engine, offering bi-timbral playability for the dynamic layering and splitting of two distinct sounds—an enhancement over the OB-Xa's capabilities. Maintaining the essence of the original, the UB-Xa retains two VCOs per voice, featuring oscillator sync and PWM, while introducing a bonus triangle wave alongside the classic saw and pulse waves. The VCOs rely on CEM3340 chip reproductions from Cool Audio (V3340).

The synth's modulation capabilities are enriched with an extra dedicated LFO, providing seven waveform shapes for modulating pulse width, oscillator pitch, and filter cutoff frequency. Additionally, the UB-Xa boasts two ADSR envelopes per voice, configurable through an 8-channel modulation matrix.

A noteworthy addition is the stereo VCA per voice, allowing comprehensive control over individual voices and facilitating panning within the stereo field. The vintage mode introduces eight distinct synthesizer signatures, reminiscent of the OB-Xa and OB-8.Beyond faithful replication, the UB-Xa offers an expressive playing experience, featuring a new dual-layer arpeggiator and sequencer with a real-time sequence transpose option. The keyboard is a standout feature, showcasing Behringer's first 61 semi-weighted full-size polyphonic aftertouch keybed with velocity.

With 26 hardware rotary controls, the UB-Xa grants real-time access to essential parameters. The design closely mirrors the original, including matching colors. An LCD display provides visual feedback and aids in menu and patch management, with 512 user program memory slots.

Connectivity-wise, the UB-Xa is comprehensive, sporting a built-in power supply, USB port, full MIDI interface, CV/pedal input, and three servo-balanced outputs. Behringer assures a robust MIDI implementation, featuring NRPN/CC control and bulk load/save functionality.

Priced at $1499, the UB-Xa steps into a new price segment for Behringer, prompting anticipation within the synth community. It's a departure from the more budget-friendly options, and its acceptance and sales performance remain to be seen. 

 [IMAGES AND VIDEO BY BEHRINGER | COVER IMAGE REVIEW SPACE]