BEHRINGER / SDS-3

The Behringer SDS-3 is an analog drum synthesizer that recreates the original 70s circuitry. Its 4 channels allow versatile performance of everything from toms, bass drums, and cymbals to special effects. Triggerable via microphone input, MIDI, or USB, it features velocity sensitivity to express nuanced playing.

・Classic analog polyphonic drum synthesizer from the 70s

・Authentic recreation of the original Simmons SDS-3 circuitry

・Infinite percussion sounds including toms, bass drum, cymbals, bells, gongs, vibraphone, thunder, jumbo jet, and more

・Special effects channel delivering indescribable sound modulation effects

・4 drum channels (each channel individually controls clock, decay, bend, pitch, noise, and assignable decay kill)
・Sound triggering via analog control inputs, MIDI, or USB
・4 independent analog outputs for external processing and recording
・Direct real-time control of all critical parameters via 57 controls

・Fully Euro Rack compatible solution - Main module can be relocated to a standard Euro Rack case

・Comprehensive MIDI implementation featuring MIDI channel, velocity, and voice polyphony selection

SDS-3
The Legend Returns

In the late 1970s, the original SDS-3 arrived, making waves as one of the earliest drum synthesizers on the market. And it was truly an innovative drum synth. Its ability to trigger effects with any audio signal meant you could transform a drum sound picked up by a microphone into a cool percussion synth.

In today's synth scene, this original unit is practically a “legendary relic,” but we wanted to bring it back to life. The Behringer SDS-3 retains its classic charm while adding new percussion elements to your tracks in a fun and unique way.

Faithful Reproduction of the Original

The SDS-3 faithfully recreates the original 1970s circuitry. It therefore possesses the unique quirks and character that many musicians loved back then. However, several features have been updated to accommodate modern setups.

Realistic Playing Feel

The SDS-3 features four identical drum channels, each with controls to freely adjust every beat element. Add a click sound (like striking a drum with a stick) to the attack, adjust decay, bend the pitch up or down, or change the input signal's pitch. Furthermore, you can set the LFO and effect range from the master/effects section.

The most enjoyable triggering method is connecting drum mics to each channel and playing them directly. Inputs feature velocity sensitivity, responding to the dynamics of your performance.

Adjust the Atmosphere

The SDS-3's Master/Effects section affects all four channels. Here, you can adjust overall pitch, LFO rate, range, waveform (square or sine), runtime, and output level. In addition to triggering effects via the mic input, you can also trigger them via MIDI or USB.

Combining all these features, the SDS-3 brings rich color and expressive character to your music, delivering an exciting experience for both performance and listening.

Specifications
Number of Voices
4 x Monophonic

Type
Analog

Oscillators
4 self-oscillating diode ladder filters / 4 x White Noise

LFO
1 LFO

RUN
1 S&H

Connectivity
Power Switch
Push button (rear panel)

MIDI In
5-pin DIN

MIDI Thru
5-pin DIN

USB
USB 2.0 Type B socket

Audio Output
3.5mm TS jack (Mix) / 4 x 3.5mm TS jacks (Channel Outputs)

6.35mm (1/4") TS jack (Rear Panel)

Microphone Input
4 x 3.5mm TS jacks

Microphone Output
3.5 mm TS Jack ×4

Pitch Pedal Input
3.5 mm TRS Jack ×1 / 6.35 mm (1/4) TRS Jack ×1 (Rear Panel)

Decay Kill Input
6.35 mm TS (1/4) Jack ×1 (Rear Panel)

USB
Type
Class-compliant USB 2.0 Type B

Supported OS
Windows 7 or later

Mac OS 10.10 or later

Master/Effects Section
Controls
Master Output

Global Pitch

LFO Rate

Runtime

Switches
LFO Range (Slow/Fast)

LFO Shape (Square/Sine)

LFO On/Off

LFO Run On/Off

Channel
Controls
Channel Level x 4

Impact Click x 4

Decay Time x 4

Bend Level x 4

Microphone Sensitivity x 4

Pitch x 4

Balance x 4

Effect Range x 4

Switches
Microphone On/Off x 4

Pitch Up/Down x 4

LFO On/Off x 4

Run On/Off x 4

Power Requirements
Voltage
12 V DC

PSU
1000 mA

Current Draw
800 mA (+12 V Eurorack)

Physical Specifications
Standard Operating Temperature
5°C - 45°C (41°F - 113°F)

Dimensions (H x W x D)
95 x 375 x 136 mm

Eurorack
70 hp

Weight
1.51 kg