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Behringer has introduced the 2-XM, an inexpensive, unofficial Euro-format copy of the classic Oberheim Two-Voice synthesizer.

Like the original, the 2-XM features two Synthesizer Expander Modules, each an all-in-one synth voice. But it drops the original’s step sequencer, replacing it with MIDI and CV/Gate control.

Features:

• Reproduces SEM 2-Voice circuitry from the ‘70s
• Analog signal path based with VCO, VCF and VCA
• 2 independent voices for polyphonic, split or 4-oscillator unison sounds
• 2 variable oscillator shapes, with adjustable pulse width for inspiring sounds
• Oscillator sync
• 2 multi-mode filters, with low-pass, high-pass, band-pass and notch modes
• 2 analog LFOs with triangle and square waveforms
• 4 analog envelope generators for extensive control of filters and amplifiers
• Noise generator dramatically expands waveform generation
• Extensive modulation capabilities, including internal and external sources
• 2-channel mixer section featuring level and pan controls for intense stereo sounds
• Portamento function applicable to both voices for pitch gliding effects
• 2 external audio inputs for processing external sound sources
• Dedicated audio outputs plus a combined stereo output
• CV and GATE In/Outs for patching and integrating with other modular gear
• 16-voice Poly Chain allows combining multiple synthesizers for up to 32 voice polyphony
• Eurorack compatible – main module can be transferred to a standard Eurorack case
• 64 controls to give you direct and real-time access to important parameters
• MIDI and USB implementation with MIDI channel and Voice Priority selection

Behringer says that the 2-XM will be priced at $299, with availability dependent on the availability of needed semiconductor chips

The UB-1, an Oberheim-inspired dual-oscillator paraphonic monophonic minisynth.

“ We’re just warming up”: Behringer launches $49 Oberheim-style UB-1 mini synth and hints at more to come.

Perhaps, you thought that Behringer’s synth launch deluge was done, think again, as it’s just announced yet another new mini synth, the UB-1. What’s more, in a further post, it says that it is “just warming up,” indicating that there could be more new products to come

Similar to Oberheim colours, the UB-1 is a portable analogue instrument that’s based on the 3396/3397 chip design found in that company’s Matrix synths. It features two DCOs, a 4-pole filter, VCF and VCA envelopes and two LFOs.

Other features include a touch-sensitive keyboard, an arpeggiator, 32 presets, an OLED display and USB/MIDI support.

Features:

• Programmable synthesizer with 2 DCOs and classic 4-pole filter
• Built around clone of the CEM3396/3397 analog chip used in the Oberheim Matrix 6/1000
• 16 touch-sensitive mini keys
• 32 memory presets, expandable via SynthTribe app
• Arpeggiator with 3 patterns and hold function
• Individual envelopes for VCF and VCA for creative sound shaping
• 2 LFOs to control filter and oscillator tuning
• 6 functions buttons and OLED display for editing
• USB Micro connector allows powering via smartphone, power bank or computer
• USB/MIDI implementation (including NRPN/CC control of all parameters and bulk load/save)

The Behringer UB-1 mini synth estimated price is $49, with availability to be announce once the chip available.

Steinberg has released Cubase 12, which the company teased last year. Now, there’s much more to this DAW update then things it was keen to talk about previously.

Steinberg Cubase 12 arrives with a finessed workflow, simple sign-in and Apple silicon support

Steinberg says that Cubase 12 provides “seamless integration and smooth performance,” with multiple new features and workflow enhancements.

The pick of the new ‘integration’ features could be enhanced controller support, with all three versions of Cubase 12 – Pro, Artist and Elements, now capable of automatically detecting certain controllers and providing enhanced mapping options.

As on the ‘seamless’ front, there is an updated Chord Track – you can now drag and drop audio events meaning that MIDI chord progressions can be used for audio.

The Pro and Artist editions now feature the Scale Assistant in VariAudio, making it easy to make pitch edits and timing corrections, and there is a new FX modulator that features an array of effect modules and an envelope editor.

Next, is the Raiser limiter, a new dynamics processor for Cubase Pro 12, and both Pro and Artist get AudioWarp improvements – the Free Warp tool enables you to make timing corrections for multiple tracks simultaneously within the Project window. All versions promise editing improvements and near sample-accurate volume automation, too.

Additionally, Cubase Pro is getting new Logical Editors and the promise of Dolby Atmos support (available soon in a maintenance update) including a few new features that were previously only available in Nuendo – the ability to use two video tracks, for example. Verve is a new felt piano instrument for Pro and Artist that was recorded at the Yamaha Studios in LA.

You can now sign into Cubase with your Steinberg login, so there’s no need for a physical copy-protection device. Version 12 is compatible with Apple silicon-powered computers, as well, with the promise of improved processing times for many operations.

Find out more on the Steinberg website.

Cubase Pro 12, Cubase Artist 12 and Cubase Elements 12 are available now priced at $580/€579, $330/€329 and $100/€100 respectively. Upgrades, crossgrades and education versions are also available.