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The Ultimate Guide To The Behringer Deepmind 12 – How It Works, Who Uses One + Where To Buy It!

The Behringer Deepmind 12 – The Budget Juno!

Although Behringer have seen a fair amount of criticism for the similarities between some of their synths and other, beloved models designed by different companies, the Deepmind shows more of their original touches. Compared to the Behringer Model D and the K-2, comparison with other brands has been relatively slight and despite noted similarities with Roland’s Juno 106, the Deepmind veers into new territory with Behringer-only features. 

Some of the notable unique features of the Deepmind- which do not pay homage to any other synth on the market- are the digital offerings. Although both the Juno 106 and the Deepmind 12 use DCOs, the Deepmind has a wider variety of digital effects lacking from Roland’s synth. In fact, the variety and versatility on offer with the Deepmind 12 is one of it’s strongest points. 

Behringer describe the Deepmind 12 as an analogue synth, but in fact, it is best categorized as a digital/analogue hybrid. A polyphonic synth, it manages to blend the best parts of analogue with modern digital capabilities. Apart from a noise generator, hi-pass and low pass VCFs and a basic VCA, it has four effects engines, two LFOs and two oscillators per voice, an eight channel modulation matrix, three ADSR generators, and a 32 step control sequencer, as well as built in Wi-Fi and tablet remote control which set it firmly in the lifestyle of the 21st century musician. 

Where Can I Buy A Behringer Deepmind 12?

It is the effects especially which set it apart from any other models which it could be accused of cribbing from. With over thirty algorithms and four effects slots, the dizzying amount of combinations provide the user with a cornucopia of different sounds through options such as reverb and multi band distortion. These can be configured as inserts or sends and have 10 different possible routings. As well as it’s sequencer, it has velocity sensitivity and aftertouch, as well as an arpeggiator and PolyChord systems which allow for polyphonic sounds with a monophonic playing style. One similarity to the Juno 106 is the bass boost switch, but the Deepmind 12 also has chorus, flanger, delay, and phaser in it’s arsenal, setting itself up as a much more specification oriented synth with plenty of options for a relatively low price. All of it’s features have a variety of different modes such as the arpeggiator’s glide modes, leaving the user with precise control over their playing. It’s high pass filter and true bypass mode also give a large array of options with regards to EQ. MIDI capabilities add to it’s appeal and user-program memories ensure you will never forget the settings of a favourite sound. The Deepmind’s huge variety of different settings are helped by an accompanying app and by an LCD screen showing filter envelopes and LFOs. 

From it’s specifications, it’s clear that the Behringer Deepmind 12 is a very different kind of synth from old analog classics such as the Minimoog and the Korg MS 20. Whilst some synths choose to go for extremely high quality but have only a few features and specialize in a particular and recognizable sound, the Deepmind 12 offers breadth over depth- not that this is a bad thing, and all of it is done well. Ultimately, it is a matter of personal preference and whilst it may not be as cheap as other Behringer products, for the amount of features it offers very good value for money and would be perfect for a beginner getting into synthesis and wanting to explore all the various capabilities of the medium. Nevertheless, Behringer does have its own unique sound in the same way that Moog or Roland have their own instantly recognizable signatures. With so many models which pay homage to those of other companies, Behringer’s reputation doesn’t encompass a unique fingerprint, but favourable reviews from Sound on Sound have seen that the Deepmind 12 can hold it’s own in being a uniquely Behringer synth. 

Behringer corporation is also part of Uli Behringer’s holding company Music Tribe, giving them the ability to work closely with Music Tribe companies Klark Teknik and TC Electronic, meaning the Deepmind 12 has been created in tandem with other music technology specialists. Despite it’s complexity in terms of specs, it’s not necessarily a difficult instrument to learn, unlike other complex synths such as the DX7. The Deepmind 12 is capable of making sounds suited to everything from Prog Rock to EDM, and has considerable processing power, as well as inbuilt fans to prevent overheating, something which isn’t often found and comes in useful with settings which require a lot of processing power. 

How Much Does A Behringer Deepmind 12 Cost?

The Deepmind 12 is available from all major online music retailers such as Andertons and Thomann.de. Behringer’s website also has a convenient list of its dealers with maps included, so although the Deepmind 12 cannot be bought directly from them, potential buyers can find the retailer closest and most convenient for them, as well as comparing prices. 

Alternatively, if you want to go second hand, Amazon and Ebay are worth checking, with the Deepmind 12 currently listed on Amazon for £735 as brand new, although used models will be cheaper. It is worth noting that this is over £100 more than on music retailers’ websites. Some Behringer products such as the Model D can be bought for £200-300, but as the Deepmind 2 comes with a built in keyboard, this naturally hikes the price. 

Lastly, musicians’ forums on Facebook often churn up surprising bits of kit, especially when people are having studio renovations or moving house, so it is worth joining one and checking periodically. 

*prices generally seen on auction sites. If you see them cheaper, you may be on to a bargain.

Who Uses Or Used The Behringer Deepmind 12?

Although the Deepmind, like other Behringer products, is not that popular amongst the commercial core of the music industry, it is used by those with home studios or who are semi professional producers and audio engineers, and is modelled after the Juno-106 by Roland, which was used mostly by electronic artists such as Frankie Goes to Hollywood as well as German electronic act Tangerine Dream and Welsh group Underworld. 

Classic Behringer Deepmind 12 Videos, Tutorials & Demos

A playlist of videos showing you how to program a Deepmind 12 (or 6), how to create some famous patterns as well as watching the difference between this and other synths. Some great tips in here so be sure to check them out!

Other Classic Synth or Drum Machine Products?

Famous synths, drum machines and effects include: SH 101, MC 202, TB 303, TR 606, TR 707, TR 808, TR 909, Juno 60RE-201 Space Echo. Behringer K2, Behringer Model D, Elektron Machinedrum, Korg MS-20, Moog Model D, Moog Grandmother, Nord Modular G1, Oberheim OB-6, Sequential Prophet 6, Yamaha DX7.

Where Can I Find A Behringer Deepmind 12 For Sale?