The Behringer DeepMind 12 is a throwback to the golden age of analog synthesis, drawing inspiration from classic synthesizers with its sturdy design and rich, warm sound palette. Combining an array of features, such as a 49-note-keyboard, 4-octave range, 12-Voice Polyphony, and 2 Oscillators per voice, this powerful synthesizer delivers a captivating performance that can cater to the needs of musicians of various genres and skill levels.
A nod to the iconic Roland Juno-106 synthesizer, the DeepMind 12 captures the raw essence of the classic 80s synth without emulating it outright. It arms you with an array of digital effects and convenient additions like Wi-Fi, an iPad app for patch management, and MIDI functionality, all of which makes it both a trip down memory lane and a modern tool for today’s producer.
The DeepMind 12’s notable features, such as the two DCO (Digitally Controlled Oscillators) per voice, twin digitally controlled formant filters, and a flexible 8-bus modulation matrix, combine to provide unbelievable depth and range of sound. As a bonus, the built-in from TC Electronic, Midas, and Klark Teknik effect engines further expand the synth’s sonic capabilities with reverb, delay, and modulation effects.
One of the greatest strengths of the Behringer DeepMind 12 is its commitment to user-friendliness. Its layout is intuitive and easily navigable, even for those relatively new to synthesis. Its brightly lit buttons and sliders make tweaking sounds an enjoyable venture, and the backlit LCD screen lets you navigate the menu system with relative ease.
No other synth on the market brings together so much under one hood and at such a competitive price as the DeepMind 12. This synth is a compelling choice for musicians and producers who want a versatile, full-featured analog polysynth that offers a rich concoction of vintage warmth and modern functionality. As we delve deeper into this review, you’ll come to understand just how much this innovative musical tool has to offer.
Contents
Unboxing and First Impressions
Upon receiving the Behringer Deepmind 12 synthesizer, the first thing you would notice is the weight. Considering its sturdiness and high-quality design, the relatively compact size of it comes as a surprise.
The package contains the DeepMind 12 unit, a power cable, and a quick start guide. The user manual has to be downloaded from the Behringer webpage.
When first unboxed, the aesthetic appeal of the DeepMind 12 is clear. It has a sleek casing made from rugged, high-end materials, and it demonstrates its build quality through its substantial weight. The design features an impressive array of faders, buttons, and knobs, all of which feel solid and sturdy to the touch. The thoughtfully laid out controls give it an air of functionality and elegance.
The front part of the synthesizer is dominated by a 4-octave, semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch, the LED display, and various parameter controls aligned neatly on the wooden panel. The presence of wooden sides gives it an overall classic, vintage look that pairs nicely with its thoroughly modern capabilities.
When you power on the Deepmind 12, you are greeted with a warm, inviting glow from the LED display. The tactile interface of its control buttons and sliders only serve to heighten the excitement of the initial interaction with the device.
What stands out immediately during this initial encounter is the depth and complexity of the DeepMind 12’s onboard settings. The comprehensive design with the sliders assigned to different parameters for each of the unit’s 12 voices promises a world of sound design possibilities.
In the unboxing experience, the DeepMind 12 impresses with its build quality, visual appeal, and the promise of a deep sound design potential. Nonetheless, assessing the full depth of this synthesizer’s capabilities can only be done by diving into its sound formation, modulation, and performance capabilities, a preview of which can be gleamed in the unboxing experience.
| Product Name | Amazon Link |
|---|---|
| Behringer DEEPMIND12 BEHRINGER DEEPMIND 12 | Find more info on Amazon here! |
| Behringer DeepMind 12 voice Synthesizer DeepMindModd3 | Find more info on Amazon here! |
Key Features and Functionality
The Behringer DeepMind 12 is an analog polyphonic synthesizer that is loaded with a plethora of features and functionalities that make it a compelling choice for music enthusiasts and professionals.
One of the main features of the DeepMind 12 is its distinctive 12-voice structure. Each of these voices comprises two digitally controlled oscillators, plus a noise generator pushing through a 2/4 pole Low Pass filter. This enables the synthesizer to manipulate sounds a way similar to classic analog synths, providing a warm and vintage feel to your sounds with added depth and richness.
The DeepMind 12 is furnished with an extensive 8-channel modulation matrix with 19 sources and over 130 destinations. This matrix offers a variety of sound shaping options, helping musicians craft unique tones and sonic landscapes.
The Behringer DeepMind 12 also features a unison mode. In this mode, you can stack up to 12 voices – an amazing feature for creating enormous bass and lead lines that really cut through in the mix.
Furthermore, it also includes a 32-step control sequencer, and an integrated Wi-Fi module, allowing remote control via a dedicated application, further augmenting its versatility.
The DeepMind 12 also houses 26 sliders and a switch for every one of its functions that, together with a backlit display, make the technical handling of the tool easier and more intuitive.
Another delightful feature is the built-in four effects engine, inspired by TC Electronic and Klark Teknik. This engine provides the ability to utilise up to four simultaneous effects including reverb, chorus, delay, phaser, flanger, and multiband distortion. This offers a significant feature whenever the necessity for sound coloration arises.
The DeepMind 12 also offers comprehensive controls. With pitch and modulation wheels, plus additional modulation sources, you can fine-tune and manipulate your sounds with maximum precision.
The DeepMind 12 also comes with a fully servo-balanced stereo TRS output, ensuring pristine audio quality and reliability in both live and studio settings.
The features and functionalities of the Behringer DeepMind 12 make it a powerful tool for a range of applications, from music production to live performances. This synthesizer offers an amazing synthesis experience and opens up a new realm of sonic possibilities.
Sound Quality and Performance
The Behringer DeepMind 12 is a synthesizer that prides itself on delivering high quality, diverse sounds, and it does not disappoint. This 12-voice analog polysynth comes with 2 DCOs per voice, 2 LFOs per voice, and a 12-db/octave (2-pole) low pass filter, and a 12-db/octave (2-pole) high pass filter. In addition to this, the inclusion of a robust modulation matrix and an onboard array of effects contribute significantly to the range and depth of sound that can be produced.
The power and flexibility of the DeepMind 12’s oscillators serve as the heart of its sound. The DCOs can generate square, sawtooth and triangle waveforms separately or in combination, allowing for a wide range of colorful, complex tones. For extra fatness and thickness, the synth features oscillator detune that makes it possible to add a slight pitch variation, resulting in a fuller, richer sound.
The DeepMind 12’s filters contribute significantly to its sonic character. The low-pass filter is capable of adding a warm, crunchy edge to the sound while the high-pass filter can shave off some of the lower frequencies to give you a leaner, more focused sound. Both filters are very responsive and can be modulated via the LFOs, envelope followers or the modulation wheel for more dynamic, expressive results.
Furthermore, the DeepMind 12 excels in the realm of effects processing. The effects section, powered by TC Electronic, Klark Teknik and Midas, provides a selection of premium-grade effects, including reverbs, delays, chorus, flanging, phasing, and multi-band distortion. All effects can be used simultaneously and the routes can be extensively modified for incredible sound design possibilities.
Moreover, the DeepMind 12’s unison mode allows for stacking up to 12 voices per note for mammoth leads and basses. Combined with the 3 ADSR generators, the synth can generate a range of effects from delicate whispers to screamin’ leads and bruising basses.
The overall sonic experience that the DeepMind 12 brings is impressive. Despite being analog, it manages to be incredibly versatile, delivering a wide spectrum of tones that can be both warm and fat, but also cutting and intense. Behringer has unquestionably gone the extra mile to ensure that the sound quality and performance of the DeepMind 12 surpasses expectations.
Connectivity and Integration
The Behringer Deepmind 12 excels in the area of connectivity and integration, making it a versatile choice for any studio set-up. It offers an array of ports which include USB, MIDI, and Wi-Fi capabilities, which can be used for updates, sending and receiving MIDI data, and virtual control from any device that supports it.
The presence of 3.5mm headphone jack, stereo outputs for audio, and inputs for sustain and expression pedals, are among the many traditional connectivity options onboard. Additionally, the unit provides for both MIDI and USB connections that facilitate linking to external hardware or your preferred DAW setup.
What sets it aside from many of its rivals is its built-in Wi-Fi module. This enables wireless control via an iPad app – a surprisingly futuristic feature for an instrument inspired by past. The accompanying app provides a responsive and intuitive virtual interface that expands your control over the synthesizer’s parameters.
Another exciting feature is the Behringer’s synth tool application, available for both iOS and Android users. The app offers an easy integration with the Deepmind 12 and isn’t merely a remote control for the synth. It also aids in visualizing what’s going on in the synth, a particularly helpful tool for rookies who are just cutting their teeth in the world of synth.
Overall, the Deepmind 12 strikes a fine balance between the new and the old in terms of connectivity and integration. Its numerous cable ports accommodate traditionalists, while its Wi-Fi integration speaks to a forward-thinking approach. This makes it a great choice for any musician, whether they be a seasoned pro or a beginner who’s keen to learn.
Pros and Cons
When evaluating any synthesizer, one must consider both its strengths and concerns. Below, we dissect the merits and potential drawbacks of the Behringer DeepMind 12, a powerful polychromatic synthesizer reputed for its accessibility, quality, and price.
Pros
Diverse Sound Capabilities: The DeepMind 12 excels due to its versatility and broad range of sound options. It offers twelve voice polyphony, embedded with two DCOs per voice, noise generator, plus two LFOs- providing vast potential for creating expansive soundscapes.
Strong Effects Section: The synthesizer features an array of 33 effects. These range from standard reverbs and delays to more esoteric offerings like a vintage phaser and flanger. This means that the DeepMind 12 is perfectly capable of generating complex and intricately layered sounds, significantly enhancing a musician’s creative possibilities.
WIFI Connectivity: The WIFI feature is novel and beneficial. It allows for remote control over the synthesizer’s parameters and settings via your tablet, providing tote mobility of the device.
Build Quality: It’s aesthetics are pleasing with a well-built metallic design that is solid, boasts of longevity, and is highly portable.
Value for Money: At its price range, the Behringer DeepMind 12 provides a vast array of features and creative potential that is difficult to find with its competitors.
Cons
Complex Interface: For beginner-level musicians or those unfamiliar with the intricate workings of a synthesizer, the DeepMind 12 may seem daunting. A steep learning curve is associated as it requires in-depth knowledge and understanding.
No Sequencer: The DeepMind 12 does not come with a sequencer. Musicians aiming for rhythmic pattern design would then have to invest extra for an external sequencer.
Absence of a Sampler: Unlike some synthesizers on the market, the DeepMind 12 does not incorporate a sample playback feature– which may limit creativity for some musicians.
Power Supply: Some users have reported that the external power supply can be inconvenient and potentially fragile.
Limited Patch Memory: With just 1024 program locations, some users may find the patch memory somewhat limiting.
Comparisons with Other Synthesizers
In the field of synthesizers, there is a plethora of options, and it would be remiss to review the Behringer DeepMind 12 without drawing comparisons to other noteworthy models in the market.
DeepMind 12 vs. Rolan JUNO series
The DeepMind 12 bears certain similarities with the Roland Juno series, especially the JUNO-106, a classic among polyphonic synthesizers. Both models feature an all-analog signal path and a six-voice architecture. However, the DeepMind 12 advances beyond the JUNO’s basic envelope and LFO controls with a multi-mode arpeggiator, a velocity-sensitive 49-note keyboard, and an extensive modulation matrix.
DeepMind 12 vs. Korg Minilogue
When compared to the popular Korg Minilogue, the DeepMind 12 offers a higher degree of flexibility and customization. While the Minilogue is only four-voice polyphonic, the DeepMind 12 is 12-voice polyphonic, expanding the user’s capacity for enhanced multi-timbral sound. Furthermore, the DeepMind 12’s four integrated effects engines (with TC Electronic and Klark Teknik algorithms) surpass the Minilogue’s basic delay effect.
DeepMind 12 vs. Dave Smith Instruments’ Prophet Rev2
The Behringer DeepMind 12 and Dave Smith Instruments’ Prophet Rev2 both stand out as high-quality synthesizers. While the Prophet Rev2 has an edge in terms of state-variable filters and expanded waveform selection, the DeepMind 12 offers a more affordable alternative. DeepMind 12 also excels in its effects section, offering 33 different algorithms in comparison to the Rev2’s basic delay and reverb.
DeepMind 12 vs. Moog One
Of course, the more luxurious Moog One is in a category of its own. The Moog One stands out in terms of build quality and superior sound, boasting three VCOs per voice compared to DeepMind 12’s two DCOs. However, the DeepMind 12 competes strongly in terms of value for money, offering similar functionality and versatility at a fraction of the Moog One’s price.
In summary, the Behringer DeepMind 12 can hold its ground amongst different synthesizers. It distinguishes itself as a competitively priced, fully-featured analog polysynth capable of producing a broad array of sonically pleasing outputs while remaining accessible for a wide range of users.
Price Point and Value for Money
The Behringer DeepMind 12 is positioned in the mid-range price bracket, making it very appealing to synthesizer enthusiasts who are looking for an instrument that does not break the bank but nevertheless offers a lot of features and capabilities.
Priced competitively in comparison to other synthesizers in the same category, the DeepMind 12 provides significant value due to its abundance of performance qualities and design features. This synthesizer offers a 12-voice analog polyphonic configuration, with each voice comprising of 2 analog DCO’s and an analog LFO. The level of depth and quality in sound that you can achieve from this device is astounding, and when compared to its price, it truly is a great investment.
Furthermore, the DeepMind 12 incorporates a 49-key full-size keyboard, 8-channel modulation matrix, 32-step control sequencer, four digital effects engines as well as built-in Wi-Fi for wirelessly editing the sounds, which are not commonly found in synthesizers within this price range. Taken together, these features make the DeepMind 12 a standout for its price.
It’s also worth mentioning the device’s robust construction, and sleek, attractive design, which adds more value for money. The light-weight keys have a professional feel, and the overall build quality is impeccable to ensure long-term usage. The synth also includes four sturdy wooden end cheeks, adding a touch of classic elegance to its modern design.
In summary, the price point of the Behringer DeepMind 12 seems well justified by its multitude of features, high-quality sound, and top-notch build. It offers great value for money for both stage performers and studio musicians, especially when taking into account its analog synthesis capabilities, extensive modulation options and quality construction. While it might not be the cheapest synthesizer on the market, its array of features and quality build certainly make it a worthwhile investment.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
The Behringer Deepmind 12 is a powerful, robust addition to the world of synthesizers. It crowns itself in the lineage of classic analog synthesizers, pushing boundaries with expanded capabilities for the modern musician.
It’s comprehensive set of features, from the 12-voice polyphony to the 2 DCOs per voice, 24-voice unison and broad range of effects, all cater to a wide variety of sound design possibilities. The two integrated LFOs per voice and full control over envelopes for modulation are indicative of Behringer’s attention to fine detail for musicians who crave control over their sound.
If you’re after vintage aesthetic, you’ll appreciate the retro-styled wooden casing that harkens back to the golden days of electronic music. The sleek, compact design is a great fit for any studio setup, ensuring that it’s as aesthetically pleasing as it is functional.
Navigating the Deepmind 12 will take a bit of a learning curve, which may be an obstacle for novice players. The menu involves a degree of depth which could be somewhat intimidating for beginners. However, it offers extensive control possibilities that will appeal to more experienced users.
Wi-Fi connectivity, an impressive feature not often found in other synthesizers in this price range, adds an extra level of flexibility and convenience. It brings forward the possibility to manipulate your sound wirelessly, opening up new and innovative ways to integrate the synth into your setup.
From a price-to-performance standpoint, the Deepmind 12 synthesizer punches above its weight. It offers impressive sound depth and flexibility at a competitive price point, making it an excellent choice for both experienced musicians and those who are in the process of finding their sonic voice.
When deciding if the Deepmind 12 is right for you, consider your enthusiasm for sound design, your skill level, and how much you value the added bonuses of vintage aesthetics and wireless control. If these are elements you’re excited about, then the Behringer Deepmind 12 could be a wise investment.