Behringer Poly D: Channeling Thriller’s Ghosts and Grooves

In this episode, Behringer dives into the creative guts of the Poly D, showing off how this analog beast can summon the classic sounds of Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’. With a focus on the bass, theremin, and marimba patches, the video walks through how the Poly D moves from warm, punchy grooves to spectral, spine-tingling textures. As ever, Behringer keeps things practical, demonstrating just how much sonic territory you can cover with a single synth and some clever patching.

A Poly D Halloween: Classic Sounds Reimagined

Behringer’s latest video in the Remaking Thriller series puts the Poly D front and center as the go-to tool for conjuring up the iconic sounds of the 1980s. The presenter wastes no time, setting the stage by referencing the unmistakable atmosphere of Michael Jackson’s classic, aiming to recreate its legendary bass line, theremin, chorus hook, and marimba riff. The Poly D, with its vintage-inspired analog circuitry, is cast as the star of this sonic séance.

What stands out in the first act is the Poly D’s adaptability. With just a few knob tweaks and careful attention to envelope and filter settings, it’s able to morph seamlessly between thick, bass-heavy grooves and more ethereal, haunting timbres. The focus here is squarely on sound design as performance—no menu diving, just hands-on synthesis as it was meant to be.

We're getting into the Halloween Groove tonight.

"We're getting into the Halloween Groove tonight."
© Screenshot/Quote: Behringer (YouTube)

Basslines, Theremins and Marimbas: Poly D in Action

The Poly D goes from fat & warm to spooky and dark as Patrick recreates the unforgettable Bass Line, Theremin, Chorus Hook and Marimba Riff.

"The Poly D goes from fat & warm to spooky and dark as Patrick recreates the unforgettable Bass Line, Theremin, Chorus Hook and Marimba Riff."
© Screenshot/Quote: Behringer (YouTube)

The video moves methodically through each signature sound. Starting with the bass, the Poly D is dialed in to deliver a fat, driving line—full of warmth, character, and a touch of vintage bite. The settings are adjusted with a light touch, showing how resonance and oscillator tuning contribute to that instantly recognizable groove.

Next, the focus shifts to the theremin and marimba patches. Here, things get a bit more experimental: filter sweeps and mod wheel action bring out the spooky, wavering edge needed for the theremin, while the marimba riff is achieved by tightening up envelopes and giving the sound a sharper, percussive transient. Throughout, the Poly D’s hands-on interface shines, demonstrating how quickly one can jump between drastically different sound roles.

From Warmth to Weird: Creative Workflows on the Poly D

Behringer’s demonstrator highlights the creative process behind each patch, moving from warm, analog comfort to the more unsettling, spectral textures synonymous with Halloween. It’s a testament to the Poly D’s flexibility that these transitions happen without ever feeling forced—the instrument seems to invite playful exploration.

By the end, the video underscores how a single synthesizer, when approached with a bit of adventurous spirit, can cover a surprising amount of sonic ground. Whether you’re after classic pop hooks, eerie atmospheres, or quirky percussive riffs, the Poly D makes a convincing case for itself as a do-it-all analog workhorse.