Should Behringer Make Minisynth Keyboards, POLYOsc Sneak Preview
Today, Behringer shared a sneak preview of the POLYOsc, a compact polyphonic keyboard, based on the voice of the Oxford Synthesiser Company OSCar synthesizer.
Based on the photo, it looks like this will be Behringer’s first minisynth keyboard.
What they have to say about it:
“Once upon a time, the OSCar synthesizer was born—a groundbreaking instrument crafted by the Oxford Synthesiser Company between 1983 and 1985. Ahead of its time in many ways, the OSCar was one of the few mono-synths of its era to feature MIDI, making it a sought-after tool for musicians. With only around 2,000 units produced, it became a cult classic known for its distinctive sound and innovative design.
Fast forward to today, and we’ve taken inspiration from this iconic synth to develop the POLYOsc prototype. This modern version builds on the legacy of the OSCar, incorporating many additional features while staying true to the original’s spirit.”
While the photo looks like a finished keyboard, it’s a pre-production prototype. Behringer says that they have not made a decision on whether or not to move forward with this design. It’s not clear from their post whether this will be a true polyphonic synth design, or a paraphonic design, like the ‘Poly D’.
Early feedback on the sneak preview suggest that people want full-size keys, and want the POLYOsc to be a true polyphonic synth design, not a paraphonic design like their ‘Poly D’.
Should Behringer start making minisynth keyboards? Share your thoughts in the comments!
