The Behringer MonoPoly is an unofficial recreation of Korg's underrated at the release but cult nowadays Mono/Poly synthesizer (1982), designed to meet modern demand for this sought-after vintage instrument. This compact analogue synthesizer successfully captures the essence of the original while introducing both improvements and compromises in its design.
Design & Build Quality
The MonoPoly features a smart, attractive appearance with a distinctive flip-up control panel that angles toward the user for improved accessibility. The synthesizer is notably smaller than the original, requiring careful placement on standard keyboard stands. Despite the reduced footprint, it maintains full-size keys, though the keyboard spans only 37 keys compared to the original's 44-key range.
Sound Character
At its core, the MonoPoly delivers the rich, distinctive sound that made the original Mono/Poly desirable. The four-oscillator architecture provides thick, swirling textures perfect for leads, bass lines, and experimental sounds. The paraphonic design allows four simultaneous notes sharing a single filter and amplifier, creating unique harmonic interactions. With proper adjustment of the rear-panel trimmers, the sound quality closely matches the vintage original.
Functionality & Features
The synthesizer excels as both a monophonic and paraphonic instrument, offering powerful modulation capabilities through oscillator sync and cross-modulation (FM). The built-in arpeggiator provides additional creative possibilities, while comprehensive CV/Gate connectivity ensures compatibility with modular systems and vintage equipment.
Notable Considerations
Review units may require filter frequency adjustment via rear-panel trimmers to achieve optimal brightness and character. The Bend wheel's spring-return mechanism differs from the original's non-sprung design, affecting certain performance techniques. USB connectivity may introduce audio noise, making traditional MIDI connections preferable for critical applications.
Technical Specifications
Oscillators
- Count: 4 oscillators
- Waveforms: Sawtooth, square/pulse, triangle, noise
- Features: Oscillator sync, cross-modulation (FM)
- Tuning: 1V/octave standard
- Scaling: Individual oscillator tuning and scaling trimmers
Filter
- Type: Single VCF (Voltage Controlled Filter)
- Cutoff Range: 20Hz - 22kHz (when properly adjusted)
- Resonance: Self-oscillation capable
- Tracking: Keyboard tracking available
- Modulation: Filter contour, key tracking, manual controls
Amplifier
- Configuration: Single VCA (Voltage Controlled Amplifier)
- Contour: Dedicated VCA envelope generator
- Response: Organ-style to full ADSR shaping
Envelopes
- Count: 2 contour generators (VCF and VCA)
- Type: ADSR (Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release)
- Timing: Maximum attack/decay of 9 seconds
- Response: 0,0,0,0 setting produces characteristic transient
Modulation
- LFO Count: 2 modulation generators
- Destinations: Filter cutoff, pitch, oscillator frequencies
- Control: Dedicated MG1 and Bend wheels
- External: ±5V control inputs for pitch and filter
Keyboard
- Keys: 37 full-size keys
- Action: Extremely light touch
- Range: 3+ octaves (reduced from original's 44 keys)
Modes
- Mono: Single voice operation
- Unison: All oscillators on single note
- Paraphonic: Up to 4 simultaneous notes
- Effects: Sync and cross-mod modes
Connectivity
Audio
- Main audio output (1/4" jack)
- Headphone output (1/4" jack)
Control Voltage
- CV In/Out: 1V/octave (1/4" jacks)
- Gate In/Out: S-Trig/V-Trig selectable (1/4" jacks)
- Pitch CV input: ±5V (1/4" jack)
- Filter CV input: ±5V (1/4" jack)
- Portamento switch input (1/4" jack)
- Arpeggiator sync input (1/4" jack)
Digital
- MIDI In/Out/Thru: 5-pin DIN connectors
- USB: Computer communication and MIDI
- MIDI Implementation: Note number, pitch bend, modulation (receive); full polyphony and velocity (transmit)
Arpeggiator
- Clock Sources: Internal, MIDI, external sync
- Sync Rates: 1pps, 2ppqn, 24ppqn, 48ppqn
- Features: Note range limiting, pattern generation
Power
- Requirements: 12V DC, 1A
- Supply: External power adapter (included)
- Internal Rails: ±15V, +5V (adjustable via trimmers)
Physical
- Dimensions: Significantly smaller than original (approximately 60% of original panel area)
- Weight: Lightweight construction
- Panel: Flip-up design with metal prop
- Finish: Professional appearance with clear control labeling
Calibration
Trimmers: 22 accessible adjustment points
- 12x oscillator tuning and scaling
- 3x filter adjustments
- 3x amplifier adjustments
- 1x noise level
- 3x power rail voltages
Software
- Management: Synthtribe application
- Updates: Firmware upgradeable
