Essential Information About the Behringer SEM Expander Module Synthesizer
- Dual analog voice inspired by the 1970s SEM 2-Voice, for playing polyphonically, split, or in unison.
- 100% analog audio path with 4 VCOs, 2 legendary multimode VCFs, and VCA for an immediate vintage tone.
- Generous modulation: 2 analog LFOs, 4 envelopes, and numerous CV and GATE I/O for modular system integration.
- Smart hybrid format: desktop module and Eurorack solution with a main module transferable into a standard case.
A Tribute to the SEM "2-Voice": The Seventies Spirit, Modern Version
The Behringer SEM Expander Module captures the DNA of the 1970s SEM 2-Voice circuits, focusing on an authentic reproduction of the key sections (VCO, VCF, VCA) and a fully analog signal path. The result: a warm, edgy, and lively sound character designed to recapture classic textures while benefiting from modern integration in both studio and Eurorack setups.
Who Is It For, and What Are Its Uses?
This analog synthesizer targets experienced musicians and sound design enthusiasts who want direct control without menus, and an instrument that is both performant live and precise in the studio. Ideal for techno, electro, synthwave, ambient, pop, or film scoring, it excels in thick basses, cutting leads, polyphonic pads, and modulation effects. Thanks to external audio inputs, it also becomes an excellent tool for processing external sources through its analog filters.
Features and Innovations
The SEM Expander Module offers an analog architecture with 2 independent voices, each capable of polyphonic play, split mode, or a powerful 4-oscillator unison. The oscillators provide 2 variable waveforms with adjustable pulse width to shift from round tones to more incisive textures, and sync enables piercing leads and rich harmonics. The 2 multimode filters (low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, notch) are at the core of its character, complemented by 2 analog LFOs (sine wave) and 4 envelopes to finely sculpt filters and amplifiers. Add a noise generator, a large modulation capacity with internal/external sources, a 2-channel mixing section with level and pan for a dense stereo output, as well as portamento applicable to both voices. For integration: dedicated outputs and a combined stereo output, 2 external audio inputs, abundant CV/GATE connectivity, and MIDI/USB with channel selection and voice priority. Finally, the Poly Chain 16-voice function allows chaining multiple units up to 32 voices of polyphony.
Technical Specifications
Synthesis and Architecture
- Classic analog synthesizer in Eurorack/desktop module format
- Authentic reproduction of the 1970s SEM 2-Voice circuits
- 100% analog signal path based on authentic VCO, VCF, and VCA designs
- 2 independent voices for polyphonic sounds, split, or 4-oscillator unison
- 4 VCOs
- 2 variable oscillator waveforms with adjustable pulse width
- Oscillator sync for piercing lead sounds and complex effects
- Noise generator
- Portamento applicable to both voices
Filters, Modulation, and Control
- 2 legendary multimode filters: low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, and notch
- 2 dedicated analog LFOs with sine waveforms
- 4 analog envelope generators for in-depth control of filters and amplifiers
- Large modulation capacity with internal and external sources
- 67 controls for direct, real-time access to all essential parameters
Mixing, Audio, and Connectivity
- 2-channel mixing section with level and pan control for intense stereo sound
- 2 external audio inputs for processing external sound sources
- Dedicated audio outputs + combined stereo output for maximum flexibility
- Numerous CV and GATE inputs/outputs for limitless creativity
- MIDI and USB implementation with MIDI channel selection and voice priority
Integration and Expansion
- Poly Chain 16-voice allowing combination of multiple synths up to 32 voices of polyphony
- Complete Eurorack solution: main module transferable into a standard Eurorack case