The Behringer Wasp Deluxe is a faithful recreation of the legendary Electronic Dream Plant (EDP) Wasp synthesizer from 1981, enhanced with modern features and capabilities. This hybrid dual oscillator synthesizer maintains the authentic character and intuitive layout of Chris Huggett's original design while incorporating the best features from its sibling, the Gnat synthesizer.

The desktop format features wooden endcheeks reminiscent of the original Wasp Deluxe and an angled case design perfect for real-time knob manipulation alongside keyboards or computers. The synthesizer excels at producing everything from massive, harmonically rich bass sounds that can "rattle foundations" to screaming lead tones that cut through dense mixes. The addition of the Gnat's "Enhance" feature on both oscillators provides optimal pulse width modulation, creating significantly thicker, more harmonically complex sounds than the original single-oscillator Wasp.

The logical front panel layout guides users through the complete signal path, making it an excellent learning tool for synthesis basics while providing experienced users with familiar territory. The authentic filter configurations, combined with the enhanced harmonic content from dual oscillators, push the instrument into OSCar synthesizer territory in terms of sonic capability.

Technical Specifications

Oscillators

• Type: Hybrid dual oscillator design
• Oscillator 1 (OSC 1):
  • Octave settings: 32', 16', 8', 4', 2'
  • Waveforms: Sawtooth, Square, ENH (Enhanced pulse width modulation)
  • Width control: Variable pulse width from 50% square to 10% pulse wave
  • Individual mix volume control
• Oscillator 2 (OSC 2):
  • Octave settings: 32', 16', 8', 4', 2'
  • Waveforms: Sawtooth, Square, ENH (Enhanced pulse width modulation)
  • Fine tune pitch control: -9 to +4 semitones
  • Individual mix volume control

Filter (Multi-Mode VCF)

• Filter Types: 4 configurations
  • Low Pass (LO): Removes higher frequencies first
  • High Pass (HI): Removes lower frequencies first
  • Band Pass (BAND): Removes frequencies above and below cutoff
  • Notch (NOTCH): Removes frequencies around cutoff, leaves others untouched
• Controls:
  • Frequency (cutoff)
  • Q (resonance around cutoff frequency)
  • +/- Filter Control for LFO modulation

Control Oscillator (LFO)

• Waveforms: Sine, Sawtooth, Reverse Sawtooth, Square, Noise, Random (RND)
• Controls:
  • FREQ (frequency control)
  • PITCH MOD (pitch modulation amount)
  • +/- Filter Control (positive/negative filter modulation)

Envelopes

• Type: ADS (Attack, Decay, Sustain) - 2 identical envelopes
• VCA Envelope (Voltage Controlled Amplifier):
  • Attack, Decay, Sustain Level controls
  • REPEAT position on Sustain Level knob
  • HOLD flip switch for indefinite sustain
• VCF Envelope (Voltage Controlled Filter):
  • Attack, Decay, Sustain Level controls
  • REPEAT position on Sustain Level knob
  • DELAY function (controls modulation start timing)
  • +/- Filter Control knob

Audio Inputs/Outputs

• Main Outputs:
  • Stereo 1/4" jacks (Left/Right) on rear panel
  • Stereo minijack on front panel
• Headphone Output: Stereo minijack with dedicated volume control
• External Audio Input: EXT Auto minijack with EXT Volume control
• Integration: Mini jack connectors for Eurorack module integration

Additional Controls

• Noise Signal: Adjustable noise generator, can control external input volume
• Glide: Variable portamento amount
• Tune: Fine tuning control
• Pitch Bend: Whole tone pitch bend (up or down)
• Overall Volume: Master output level control

Connectivity & MIDI

• MIDI: 5-pin DIN In and Thru connectors (replaces original 7-pin DIN link system)
• USB: USB 'printer' socket for direct computer connection
• MIDI Channel: Set via DIP switches on rear panel
• Polyphonic Capability: 16-voice poly chain able

Format & Physical

• Design: Desktop format with angled case
• Mounting: Eurorack format compatible (wooden endcheeks removable)
• Note: No metal mounting pieces included for Eurorack installation
• Power: External "wallwart" power adapter (USB cannot provide power)

Notable Features

• Enhanced Waveforms: Gnat's "ENH" setting on both oscillators for optimal PWM
• Modern Integration: Multiple minijack connectors for complex system integration
• Authentic Sound: Faithful reproduction of original Wasp character and range
• Educational Value: Logical layout ideal for learning synthesis basics
• No Built-in Speaker: Unlike original (which featured plastic case rattle effect)
• No Preset Memory: Does not include sound storage/recall capability

Sound Characteristics

• Capable of massive, foundation-rattling bass sounds
• Screaming lead tones that cut through dense mixes
• Harmonically rich and varying sounds when oscillators are detuned
• Classic hollow "clarinet" to "oboe" timbres with pulse width variation
• Enhanced harmonic complexity compared to original single-oscillator design