Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $487
Budget/Beginner
$500
$1501+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Behringer MS-5". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Behringer MS-5 is a 37-key analog synthesizer that breathes new life into a classic monophonic design, blending vintage charm with modern versatility. This impressive instrument faithfully recreates the iconic sound of its Japanese predecessor, featuring authentic analog circuitry and two powerful oscillators capable of producing a wide array of waveforms, including sawtooth, triangle, square, and pulse. The MS-5 is not just about nostalgia; it comes equipped with contemporary enhancements like USB connectivity and full MIDI in/out/thru capabilities, ensuring it fits seamlessly into any modern setup.
With a multi-mode diode filter offering low-pass, band-pass, and high-pass options, the MS-5 provides extensive sound-shaping potential. Its two analog LFOs and dual envelopes allow for precise modulation, while the distinctive 5-slider mixing section offers intuitive control over your sonic output. Whether you're looking to incorporate noise textures or experiment with ring modulation, this synth delivers with its built-in noise generator and modulation capabilities. Designed for musicians who value both heritage and innovation, the MS-5 is your gateway to a universe of sound possibilities.
Key Features:
- 37 velocity-sensitive full-size keys
- Authentic reproduction of the "SH-5" circuit
- Two analog oscillators with selectable waveforms
- Multi-mode diode filter (low-pass, band-pass, high-pass)
- Dual envelopes and ring modulation with LFO control
- Noise generator with pink and white noise
- 71 control elements for direct access
- MIDI in/out/thru and USB connectivity
- External input connectivity
- Stereo headphone output
Product specs
| Type | Keyboard Synthesizer |
| Analog/Digital | Analog |
| Number of Keys | 37 |
| Type of Keys | Semi-weighted, Full-size |
| Velocity Sensitive | Yes |
| Polyphony | 2 x Monophonic |
| Oscillators | 2 x VCO |
| Waveforms | Triangle, Sawtooth, Square, Pulse |
| LFO | 2 x LFO |
| Filter | 1 x 4-pole Low Pass, 1 x 4-pole High Pass |
| Envelope Generator | 1 x AR, 1 x ADSR, 1 x Fixed |
| Sampling | Yes |
| Audio Inputs | 1 x 1/4" TS |
| Audio Outputs | 2 x 1/4" TRS (L, R) |
| Headphones | 1 x 1/4" TRS |
| USB | 1 x Type B 2.0 |
| MIDI I/O | In/Out/Thru/USB |
| Pedal Inputs | 1 x 1/4" (VCF control), 1 x (VCO control), 2 x 1/4" (output expression in, out) |
| Other I/O | CV In/Out, Gate In/Out, External Trigger In |
| Power Source | 12V DC Power Supply |
| Height | 3.56" |
| Width | 25.49" |
| Depth | 14.2" |
| Weight | 21.78 lbs |
FAQs
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What type of synthesis does the Behringer MS-5 use?
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The Behringer MS-5 is an analog synthesizer featuring two voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs), offering classic analog warmth and character.
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How many keys does the Behringer MS-5 have and are they velocity-sensitive?
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The Behringer MS-5 has 37 full-size, semi-weighted keys that are velocity-sensitive, allowing for expressive playing dynamics.
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Can the Behringer MS-5 be used for polyphonic playing?
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The Behringer MS-5 features 2 x monophonic polyphony, which means it is primarily designed for monophonic play but can layer sounds for a rich texture.
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Does the Behringer MS-5 offer MIDI connectivity?
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Yes, the Behringer MS-5 includes MIDI In, Out, Thru, and USB connectivity, making it compatible with various MIDI setups.
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What kind of modulation options are available on the Behringer MS-5?
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The Behringer MS-5 offers two LFOs, pulse width modulation, and a ring modulator, providing extensive modulation capabilities for sound design.
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Is the Behringer MS-5 suitable for live performances?
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With its robust build, full-size keys, and versatile sound-shaping options, the Behringer MS-5 is well-suited for live performances, offering reliable and expressive control.
Videos
Behringer
MS-5 - A Legend Comes Back to Life
Reviews
PROS
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Impressive sound with versatile routing options for creating complex, layered tones
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Capable of producing rich Larry Heard-style square wave bass sounds
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Attractive design with attention to detail
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Solid metal housing for durability
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True analog VCOs enhance sound quality over DCOs
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Fast keybed for responsive play
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Takes users back to classic synth experiences and sounds
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Great value, especially with recent price drop
CONS
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Heavy for its size, potentially affecting portability
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Headphone volume is excessively loud at low settings
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Small usable range for some controls makes precision adjustments difficult
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Initial setup can be confusing without clear manual guidance
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Slight hiss when keys are pressed, noticeable at lower volumes
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Behringer MS-5.
User experience
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A user who received their MS-5 noted satisfaction with the purchase, emphasizing the value at its reduced price and the authenticity of its sound relative to the original SH-5.
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Some owners are willing to replace malfunctioning synths like the MS-1 with the MS-5 due to reliability concerns.
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Some owners report the MS-5's price recently dropped to $519, making it more accessible for those interested in vintage Roland sound designs.
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Owners find the sound reminiscent of the '70s, which can blend well with other DAW instruments, despite some describing it as antique and soft for lead sounds.
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Value and pricing
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Availability can vary by location, with some users indicating potential stock issues when purchasing the MS-5.
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Comparisons
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The SH-5 and SH-101 are highlighted as having distinct characteristics, minimizing overlap if owning both.
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The MS-5 is reported to have better-quality chips compared to older Behringer models like the MS-1, potentially reducing hardware issues.
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The MS-5 lacks an arpeggiator or sequencer, unlike the Poly-D, which may require additional equipment for those seeking these features.
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The oscillators on the Behringer MS-5 produce sounds distinct from Moog, with its mixer and routing options providing multi-layered tones unique from the Poly-D.
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Setup and maintenance
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Users have noted that the MS-5, due to its authentic design, requires manual tuning as it can go out of tune over time.
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Features and functionality
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The MS-5 includes ring modulation, offering additional sound-shaping possibilities not present in some other synth models.
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The sustain phase in the ADSR is optional; release starts at decay end when the sustain slider is down, enabling unique percussion sound creation.
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The stereo outputs on the MS-5, despite being a mono synth without built-in effects, allow for unique sound manipulation through external gear.
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The AR envelope can be sluggish, but plugging the Keyboard Gate Output into the EXT TRG Input raises AR levels to match the ADSR.
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Filters can produce super fat sounds when combining band pass and low pass, though they get noisy if driven too hard.
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Build quality
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The MS-5's form factor and layout are praised for being compact and ergonomic, contrasting with some critiques of Roland's Boutique series for being cramped and hard to use.
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Use cases and applications
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings
Genre Usage
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