What type of circuitry does the CHORUS SYMPHONY use?

The pedal utilizes authentic 1970s-style Bucket Brigade Device (BBD) all-analogue circuitry to generate its modulation effects.

Can I use this pedal with instruments other than electric guitar?

Yes, it features an adjustable input range specifically designed to accommodate various sources, including synthesizers and basses.

Does the CHORUS SYMPHONY support stereo output?

Yes, the pedal features dual outputs that create a wide 3D stereo field for enhanced depth in live and studio settings.

What controls are available in Chorus mode?

In Chorus mode, the pedal uses a simple one-knob control to adjust the modulation speed and depth simultaneously.

How does the Vibrato mode differ in terms of control?

Unlike the one-knob Chorus mode, Vibrato mode provides dedicated Rate and Depth controls for precise fine-tuning of the effect.

Is the housing made of plastic or metal?

The CHORUS SYMPHONY is built into a robust, vintage-style metal housing designed for durability.

Does this pedal require a battery or a power supply?

As a standard guitar effect pedal, it typically runs on a 9V DC power supply or a 9V battery, though the specific power draw is optimized for analogue performance.

Is the signal path digital or analogue?

The signal path is entirely analogue, ensuring the vintage sound quality associated with 1970s hardware.

What is the typical price range for this model?

The Behringer CHORUS SYMPHONY typically retails for approximately GBP 58.

How does this compare to the Behringer UC200?

The CHORUS SYMPHONY uses BBD analogue circuitry and has a vintage-style metal chassis, whereas the UC200 is a modern-style plastic pedal with different control parameters.

Can the pedal be used in a mono setup?

Yes, you can use a single output for a traditional mono setup, though the dual outputs are available for those who want a wider stereo image.

What kind of sound does the BBD circuitry produce?

BBD circuitry is known for producing a warm, rich, and slightly dark modulation sound that is often described as more 'organic' than digital effects.

Gear article

Behringer CHORUS SYMPHONY

The Behringer CHORUS SYMPHONY is an analogue modulation pedal designed to replicate the rich, vintage chorus and vibrato effects of the 1970s. Utilizing authentic Bucket Brigade Device (BBD) circuitry, it features an adjustable input range and dual outputs to provide a wide 3D stereo soundstage for guitarists and synthesists alike.

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Background and History

The CHORUS SYMPHONY represents Behringer's commitment to recreating legacy modulation sounds in a modern, accessible format. It draws inspiration from the legendary floor-based units of the 1970s that defined the 'ensemble' sound. Unlike modern digital emulations, this pedal focuses on the warm, organic imperfections inherent in 20th-century analogue engineering. It occupies a distinct space in the Behringer catalogue, offering a more vintage-specific aesthetic and circuit design compared to the company's more contemporary-styled pedals like the UC200 Ultra Chorus.

Circuitry and Technical Operation

At the heart of the CHORUS SYMPHONY is the Bucket Brigade Device (BBD) circuitry. This all-analogue technology works by passing the audio signal through a series of capacitors, one step at a time, creating a short delay. When this delayed signal is modulated and mixed with the dry signal, it produces the classic chorus effect. For vibrato, the dry signal is removed, leaving only the pitch-modulated signal.

A key feature of this model is the adjustable input range. This allows the pedal to handle the high output levels of synthesizers or active pickups without unwanted clipping, making it a versatile tool for studio production as well as traditional guitar rigs.

Key Features and Interface

The user interface is designed for immediate tactile control, split between two primary modes:

Chorus Mode: Operated via a simple one-knob control that balances speed and depth simultaneously for quick access to classic 'ensemble' settings.
Vibrato Mode: Featuring dedicated Rate and Depth controls, allowing users to fine-tune the pitch-warping effect to their specific taste.

The unit is housed in a robust vintage-style metal chassis. Performance is enhanced by dual outputs, which are essential for creating a 3D stereo field that adds significant spatial depth to the instrument's signal.

Sound Character

The sonic signature of the CHORUS SYMPHONY is defined by its warmth and 'lushness'. Because of the analogue signal path, it avoids the sterile or brittle high-end often associated with digital modulation. In Chorus mode, it provides a thick, shimmering texture that can add body to clean passages. In Vibrato mode, it offers a rhythmic pitch oscillation that ranges from a subtle warble to more intense, experimental modulation.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to the Behringer UC200 Ultra Chorus, the CHORUS SYMPHONY offers a more specialized vintage experience with a sturdier metal housing and BBD-specific tone. While digital alternatives like the Boss DD-3T or Fender Hammertone Flanger provide different types of time-based processing, the CHORUS SYMPHONY focuses strictly on the authentic 70s modulation aesthetic. Musicians looking for a budget-friendly analogue solution often compare this to boutique BBD pedals, though the CHORUS SYMPHONY maintains a lower price point while providing stereo functionality often missing in other entry-level units.

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Frequently asked questions

What type of circuitry does the CHORUS SYMPHONY use?: The pedal utilizes authentic 1970s-style Bucket Brigade Device (BBD) all-analogue circuitry to generate its modulation effects.
Can I use this pedal with instruments other than electric guitar?: Yes, it features an adjustable input range specifically designed to accommodate various sources, including synthesizers and basses.
Does the CHORUS SYMPHONY support stereo output?: Yes, the pedal features dual outputs that create a wide 3D stereo field for enhanced depth in live and studio settings.
What controls are available in Chorus mode?: In Chorus mode, the pedal uses a simple one-knob control to adjust the modulation speed and depth simultaneously.
How does the Vibrato mode differ in terms of control?: Unlike the one-knob Chorus mode, Vibrato mode provides dedicated Rate and Depth controls for precise fine-tuning of the effect.
Is the housing made of plastic or metal?: The CHORUS SYMPHONY is built into a robust, vintage-style metal housing designed for durability.
Does this pedal require a battery or a power supply?: As a standard guitar effect pedal, it typically runs on a 9V DC power supply or a 9V battery, though the specific power draw is optimized for analogue performance.
Is the signal path digital or analogue?: The signal path is entirely analogue, ensuring the vintage sound quality associated with 1970s hardware.
What is the typical price range for this model?: The Behringer CHORUS SYMPHONY typically retails for approximately GBP 58.
How does this compare to the Behringer UC200?: The CHORUS SYMPHONY uses BBD analogue circuitry and has a vintage-style metal chassis, whereas the UC200 is a modern-style plastic pedal with different control parameters.
Can the pedal be used in a mono setup?: Yes, you can use a single output for a traditional mono setup, though the dual outputs are available for those who want a wider stereo image.
What kind of sound does the BBD circuitry produce?: BBD circuitry is known for producing a warm, rich, and slightly dark modulation sound that is often described as more 'organic' than digital effects.