Behringer’s Wave: Digital Wavetables Meet Analog Warmth in a Modern Hybrid Synth

Behringer opens their presentation with a clear mission: to revive one of the most iconic synths of the 1980s, now reimagined as the Wave. The instrument is described as an 8-voice hybrid wavetable synthesizer, a blend of digital accuracy and analog warmth that seeks to capture the essence of its legendary predecessor. This isn’t just a cosmetic tribute—the focus is on the underlying architecture that defined an era of electronic music.

From the outset, Behringer positions the Wave as a bridge between past and present, emphasizing its hybrid nature. The digital side provides the precision and flexibility of wavetable synthesis, while the analog section, notably the V2044 filter, promises the organic, musical response that vintage enthusiasts crave. The result, at least according to the video, is a sound engine that’s both faithful to its roots and ready for modern workflows.

Diving into the core features, the Wave is equipped with dual wavetable oscillators per voice, routed through the V2044 analog filter. This combination is designed to deliver both the crisp articulation of digital wavetables and the smooth, dynamic shaping of an analog filter stage. The architecture supports up to 8 voices, each capable of complex, layered timbres.

Wavetable options are extensive: 30 factory wavetables provide a solid foundation, while 64 user-defined slots allow for deep customization. There’s also support for importing 32 custom transients via the Synth Tribe app, adding another layer of sonic flexibility. This approach gives users a broad palette, from classic digital textures to entirely new waveforms, all processed through an analog filter for added character.

The Wave isn’t just about sound design—it’s built for performance. Behringer highlights a dual arpeggiator system, enabling intricate rhythmic patterns and layered melodic sequences. Alongside this, a built-in polyphonic sequencer offers further creative possibilities, letting users program evolving lines and harmonies directly on the instrument.

A standout architectural feature is the inclusion of 8 individual audio outputs, one per voice. This design caters to advanced studio and live setups, allowing for detailed multitrack processing or spatial mixing. The combination of onboard sequencing, arpeggiation, and flexible output routing positions the Wave as a versatile tool for both DAWless rigs and integrated production environments.

Behringer equips the Wave with a 49-key keyboard that supports both velocity and aftertouch, underscoring its performance credentials. This allows for nuanced playing, from gentle pads to dynamic leads, all responsive to the player’s touch. The tactile experience is front and center, aiming to make the instrument feel alive under the hands.

Advanced keyboard modes further expand the creative palette. Users can split the keyboard for multi-timbral setups, layer sounds for rich textures, or engage unison mode for powerful, stacked voices. These options, combined with the expressive keybed, make the Wave adaptable to a range of playing styles and performance contexts.