Behringer Neutron: Semi-Modular Gateway to the Patch World
· re:union Radio editorial · 2 min read
The Behringer Neutron brings true modular patching with dual CEM3340 oscillators and 56 jacks to your desk — fully analog, zero presets.
The Behringer Neutron is a semi-modular desktop synthesizer with a fully analog signal path — no memory, no presets, just cables, knobs, and sound. It targets anyone looking to move from plugin synths into modular territory without building an entire Eurorack case first.
At a glance
- 2 VCOs with CEM3340 chips, continuously crossfadable between 5 waveforms
- Multimode filter (band-, high-, low-pass) with resonance, 12 dB slope
- 56 patch jacks (32 inputs, 24 outputs) for integration with modular systems
- Eurorack-compatible in 80 HP format, MIDI In/Thru and USB-MIDI onboard
Two Oscillators, One Filter, No Memory
At its heart are two VCOs built around the classic CEM3340 chips found in several vintage synthesizers. Instead of switching between waveforms via footswitches, you can continuously crossfade between the five shapes — sine, triangle, sawtooth, square, and pulse-width. The namesake filter — also sold as the "Moffatt filter" — operates in multimode covering band-, high-, and low-pass with resonance.
You'll search in vain for a sequencer or storage: the Neutron is designed as a fully analog instrument without digital presets. Every sound is created from scratch at the unit — that's the principle, not a limitation.
56 Jacks as a Gateway to Modular
With 32 inputs and 24 outputs, the Neutron provides 56 patch points total. That's enough to play it as a standalone instrument or integrate it as an expansion into an existing Eurorack system — the chassis uses the 80 HP format and fits directly into a rack. The patch bay is complemented by a paraphonic mode for two-note sounds, an analog BBD delay, a noise generator, and an overdrive circuit.
Operation: 43 Knobs Instead of Menu Diving
43 controls ensure virtually every parameter is directly accessible via knob or switch, no submenus required. The Neutron is controlled classically via MIDI In/Thru plus USB-MIDI, making it easy to integrate into DAW setups.
| Type | Semi-modular desktop synthesizer, analog |
|---|---|
| Oscillators | 2× VCO with CEM3340 chip, 5 waveforms |
| Filter | Multimode VCF, band-/high-/low-pass, 12 dB, with resonance |
| Patch Points | 56 (32 inputs, 24 outputs) |
| Sequencer / Memory | None / no presets |
| Format | 80 HP, Eurorack-compatible |
| MIDI | In/Thru, USB-MIDI |
"The Behringer Neutron delivers everything musicians need to enter the synthesizer world" with "ample room for creative sound design."
If you want to dive deeper into analog sound design, check out our EQ mixing guide for DJs and the overview of current DJ gear for related topics.
FAQ
Does the Neutron need a modular system to work?
No. It works as a standalone desktop instrument via MIDI or USB-MIDI. The 56 patch jacks are an expansion option, not a requirement.
Can you save sounds on the Neutron?
No, the Neutron has no memory. As a fully analog instrument, sounds are dialed in fresh every time via the knobs.
