The Behringer RD-8 MKII is built around an analogue sound engine that reproduces the legendary 662 OTA chip, aiming to provide the most authentic Roland TR808 style sounds in a modern drum machine. It offers 16 original drum sounds, ranging from colossal bass drums to sizzling hi-hats, each with additional parameters and global accent capability. The Behringer RD-8 MKII includes an integrated Wave Designer with individual attack and sustain controls that can be applied to individual voices, allowing for the creation of new tones and dimensions in drum beats.
The sequencer is a 64-step unit that supports poly-metre, step-repeat, note-repeat, real-time triggering, track-mute, and track-solo functions. It provides storage for up to 256 patterns and 16 songs, enabling the creation of song arrangements from simple loops to complex structures. Pattern Mode allows users to arrange patterns into full songs and set the number of repeats per song part, while Song Mode enables chaining songs together for live sets. A unique Auto Scroll feature facilitates improvisation in all modes, and the system supports live recording, editing, and playback of analogue filter cutoff via automation.
For live performance, the Behringer RD-8 MKII includes features such as step-overdubbing and an autofill function to introduce variations. Users can cue up another song from memory without interrupting playback, allowing for continuous live sets. The Behringer RD-8 MKII features a robust encoder for editing parameters such as tempo, swing, probability, flam, and random, with the ability to set separate chain preferences for each parameter to function globally or switch on when a song or pattern changes. A high-visibility LED display aids in the easy editing of program parameters.
Connectivity and output options include 11 independent analogue outputs for external processing or multitrack recording, along with 3 trigger outs for controlling external synths and hardware sequencers. The Behringer RD-8 MKII supports MIDI In, Out, and Thru over both USB and 5-pin MIDI ports, as well as sync options via USB, MIDI, Clock, and Internal sources. The control layout consists of 29 knobs, 5 switches, and 59 buttons, arranged in an intuitive format. The machine also features powerful headphone and main outputs for monitoring.
Features
- Authentic analogue sound engine with reproduction of the legendary 662 OTA chip
- 16 original drum sounds with additional parameters and global accent capability
- 64-step drum sequencer supporting poly-metre, step-repeat, note-repeat, real-time triggering, track-mute, and track-solo
- 11 independent analogue outputs for external processing or multitrack recording
- Integrated FX bus with Wave Designer and dual-mode Analogue Filter with per-voice assignment
- Live recording, editing, and playback of analogue filter cutoff via automation
- Storage for up to 16 songs and 256 patterns with import/export capability during playback
- Pattern Mode for arranging patterns into songs and Song Mode for chaining songs in live sets
- Comprehensive MIDI In/Out/Thru plus USB implementation for synchronisation and external connection
- Sync options including USB, MIDI, Clock, and Internal for maximum versatility
