Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $290

Budget/Beginner

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Behringer ms1 mk2". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash your creativity with the Behringer MS1 MK2, a classic analogue synthesizer that's ready to elevate your musical journey. This powerhouse offers 32 semi-weighted keys and an analogue VCO based on the legendary 3340 chip, providing an authentic and rich sound that both purists and modern synth enthusiasts will appreciate. The MS1 MK2 is equipped with four mixable waveforms, including square, sawtooth, triangle, and a square sub-oscillator that can be switched between one or two octaves below. With a resonant low-pass filter and the ability to modulate via VCO waveforms, sound design becomes an immersive experience.

Perfect for live performances and studio sessions alike, the MS1 MK2 features a noise generator, ADSR envelope, and a versatile LFO with a wide frequency range for crafting intricate soundscapes. The built-in arpeggiator and programmable step sequencer offer endless rhythmic possibilities, while the portamento adds smooth transitions between notes. A bender allows for nuanced expression, with assignments to VCO, VCF, and LFO intensity.

Expand your sonic palette with a variety of connectivity options, including MIDI In/Out/Thru, USB-B, and CV/Gate inputs and outputs, ensuring seamless integration into any setup. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a budding musician, the Behringer MS1 MK2 is your ticket to exploring new musical frontiers.

Key Features:

  • 32 semi-weighted keys
  • Analogue VCO - 3340 chip based
  • Four mixable waveforms
  • Resonant low-pass filter with FM modulation
  • ADSR envelope and noise generator
  • LFO with wide frequency range
  • Arpeggiator and programmable step sequencer
  • MIDI In/Out/Thru and USB-B connectivity
  • CV/Gate inputs and outputs for modular integration
  • Includes modulation handle, shoulder strap, and external power supply

Product specs

Available since August 2024
Number Of Keys 32
Touch-Sensitive Yes
Aftertouch No
Split Zones No
Modulation Wheel Yes
Number of simultaneous Voices 1
Sound Engine Analogue
MIDI interface 1x In, 1x Out, 1x Thru
Storage Medium None
USB-port Yes
Effects None
Arpeggiator Yes
Number of Analog Outputs 1
Digital Output No
Display No
Dimensions 85 x 569 x 267 mm
Weight 4,6 kg

FAQs

Is the Behringer MS-1 MKII suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Behringer MS-1 MKII is suitable for live performances due to its 32-key layout, modulation wheel, and arpeggiator, which offer dynamic playability and real-time sound manipulation.

Does the Behringer MS-1 MKII have built-in effects?

No, the Behringer MS-1 MKII does not have built-in effects, allowing users to shape their sound using external processors or effects units.

What type of sound engine does the Behringer MS-1 MKII use?

The Behringer MS-1 MKII features an analog sound engine, providing rich, classic synth tones ideal for a variety of musical styles.

Can the Behringer MS-1 MKII be connected to a computer?

Yes, the Behringer MS-1 MKII can be connected to a computer via its USB port for MIDI control and integration with digital audio workstations.

Does the Behringer MS-1 MKII support polyphony?

No, the Behringer MS-1 MKII is a monophonic synthesizer, meaning it plays one note at a time, which is ideal for basslines and lead melodies.

What are the connectivity options for the Behringer MS-1 MKII?

The Behringer MS-1 MKII offers MIDI In, Out, and Thru ports, a USB port, and an analog output for versatile connectivity in various setups.

Mike Byrd

Mike Byrd

BEHRINGER MS-1 MK2, LAST NOTE PRIORITY WORKS, FIRMWARE UPDATE 1.0.7, SENDING MIDI CLOCK, REVIEW

Video thumbnail for BEHRINGER MS-1 MK2, LAST NOTE PRIORITY   WORKS, FIRMWARE UPDATE 1.0.7, SENDING MIDI CLOCK, REVIEW by Mike Byrd

BEHRINGER MS-1 MK2, LAST NOTE PRIORITY WORKS, FIRMWARE UPDATE 1.0.7, SENDING MIDI CLOCK, REVIEW

Mike Byrd

Mike Byrd

Reviews

PROS

  • Easy to use with intuitive controls for quick editing

  • Fantastic sound quality with improved filter over the original MS-1

  • Robust build, suitable for larger hands

  • Excellent value for the price

  • Improved glide function enhances playability

  • Synchronizes with external clock sources via SYNC IN

  • Offers great improvement and extra features over the original MS-1

CONS

  • TRANSPOSE selector is inoperative during play

  • LFO random not synchronized with USB MIDI clock

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Behringer ms1 mk2.

Features and functionality

  • The MK1 allows note priority switching between held keys, a feature reportedly absent in the MK2, affecting playability in mono synth context.

    Source
  • The MK1's sequencer only supports 8th notes, limiting onboard pattern programming, requiring external MIDI for complex sequences.

    Source
  • Firmware quirks are expected on pre-release demo units; early reviews may not reflect the final product's performance.

    Source
  • The MS1 MK2 does not allow parameter automation via MIDI CC, limiting its integration in DAW environments for those needing this feature.

    Source

Build quality

  • The MK1 has a colored, transparent bender stick, which some users find visually appealing compared to the MK2’s black plastic stick.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The MK2 filter aims to replicate the original SH-101 sound more closely, though differences are subtle in most scenarios.

    Source
  • Behringer MS-1 MK2 struggles to dethrone Roland's SH-01A as the best budget SH-101 alternative according to some users.

    Source
  • For full MIDI CC automation, consider alternatives like the Roland S1, which offers comprehensive MIDI control capabilities.

    Source

User experience

  • Some owners find the MS-1 MK2 limited but still capable of producing impressive sounds when explored deeply.

    Source

Other

  • Behringer's ethos can deter potential buyers who prefer original designs over replicas, affecting their purchasing decisions.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • While the MS1 MK2 is recognized as a controller in DAWs like Bitwig, it lacks the ability to automate synth parameters beyond pitch bend.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Some users still prefer manual audio recording and editing with the MS1 MK2, finding creative value despite its MIDI limitations.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Behringer MS-1 MkII review: nostalgic vibes | GeeXtreme

geextreme.com

Behringer's MS-1 MkII captures the nostalgic essence of the Roland SH-101 while introducing useful enhancements like FM modulation and a more robust sequencer. Priced competitively, it's a great entry point for aspiring synth enthusiasts. However, it lacks battery power and the build quality, while decent, shows signs of cost-cutting. The interface and manual could use more refinement to ease new users into its capabilities. Still, for the price, the MS-1 MkII offers rich sounds and intuitive playability, making it a worthy addition for those seeking analog warmth without breaking the bank.

positive

Behringer MS-1 mkII Is ‘Vastly Improved’ Over Original Release – Synthtopia

synthtopia.com

The Behringer MS-1 mkII emerges as a significant upgrade over its predecessor, addressing past criticisms regarding MIDI implementation and sound authenticity. With improved VCF and VCA performance based on original 662 chips, it aims to closely replicate the beloved Roland SH-101. The addition of a dual glide function is a welcomed enhancement. However, skepticism lingers, as some users question the necessity of a "better" clone when the original's charm remains elusive. Although it’s a more refined option for those seeking affordability, purists may still feel shortchanged. Overall, the MS-1 mkII is a promising choice for new users, but seasoned enthusiasts may want to proceed with caution.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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2 star
1 star
mike_byrd

Better filter and glide control, than the original MS-1

THIS MS-1 MK2 is better than the first MS-1, better filter, improved glide function and much more ,so well worth the coin, a great improvement from the original MS-1 with a lot of extra touches. What is great about this 101 clone is that it's so quick and easy to edit and find the sweet spot of a patch.

Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Behringer ms1 mk2, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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commuter

commuter

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1 alternative for Behringer ms1 mk2, curated by the Equipboard community.

Roland SH-101

$998.35

Vintage or Discontinued high-end alternative

THE MS-1 MK2, is a clone off the SH-101. The audible difference is in the filter upgrade etc.

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