Behringer has introduced the K2 mkII, and updated version of their Korg MS-20 knockoff in Eurorack module format.
While their other mkII instruments have primarily focused on fixing sonic differences between Behringer’s copy and the original, they say the K2 mkII sounds the same as the mkI version, but adds some useful new synthesis options.
Here’s what’s new in the Behringer mkII:
- V/Oct CV/Gate control – the original MS-20 was one of the few synths that use HZ/Octave control, since the original was released before V/Octave became the industry standard. Adding V/Octave support means that you can control the K2 mkII directly with standard Eurorack gear.
- Reverse Trigger input
- Pulse Width Modulation
- Oscillator Sync
- FM to Oscillator 2
In addition, Behringer has updated the styling of the K2 mkII, with a white on black color scheme, instead of the mkI’s gold on black.
Features:
- Dual VCO design
- MK II Version featuring OSC Sync, FM and PWM plus V/Oct. for all CV/Gate in/outs
- Reproduction of original circuitry with matched transistors and JFETs
- Analog signal path based on VCO, VCF, and VCA designs
- Semi-modular architecture with default routings requires no patching for immediate performance
- First and second-generation filter design (high pass/low pass with peak/resonance)
- 4 variable oscillator shapes with variable pulse widths and ring modulation for ultimate sounds
- Dedicated and fully analog triangle/square wave LFO
- 2 analog Envelope Generators for modulation of VCF and VCA
- 16-voice Poly Chain allows combining multiple synthesizers for up to 16 voice polyphony
- Eurorack compatible – module can be transferred to a standard Eurorack case
- 36 controls give you direct access to all important parameters
- External audio input for processing external sound sources
- USB/ MIDI implementation with MIDI channel and Voice Priority selection
Pricing and Availability:
The Behringer mkII is now shipping from their factory, so it should start showing up at retailers in the next couple of months, with a price of $219 USD.
This looks like a cool update, but condolences to all the mkI owners – the mkI versions have officially lost their resale value.
Resale value on a $200 synth? I don’t think anyone is losing sleep over that one.
Update is fine, but what I’m waiting for from Behringer is the BCR32. Hope that will be released soon
Well are we even talking about a MS-20 inspired device anymore with all these extras and design changes, to get beyond the normal sonics of ms20?
i sold mine to a democrat for 500 dollars.
And you bought it from a Republican …
i bought it from your mum
The buyer was actually a MAGA Republican who thought it was a good deal, because he was trained by Trump to believe anything he saw on the internet. He then went and made really bad worship music, but I repeat myself.
Why should I sell it, its for use not for sale. Keep it and play it.
I appreciate the improvements, they look pretty nice – but do not appreciate not trying to improve the accuracy of what they were trying to clone. Maybe my opinion will soften over time and my wallet will talk, to be continued.
What an improvement from Behringer. Bravo,
anyone a hint how to combine multiple of them build a poor mans ps 3100 or 3300 ?? behringer should market that, id go and purchase 6 of them myself
In a complete reversal of the way they normally do things I took delivery of one of these about 6 weeks ago. Manufacture and supply before marketing. Tracks pitch over midi way better than the 2 mk1s I had too. Filter type one is also virtually noise free compared to the older ones. Made me think they had updated some of the filter design or signal path circuitry but apparently not? Knobs have a bit less resistance than before in a good way too.