Gear article

Behringer UC200 Ultra Chorus Pedal

The Behringer UC200 Ultra Chorus is a compact guitar effects pedal designed to add richness and thickness to an instrument's signal. It features four dedicated controls for tonal shaping and provides a stereo output for an expanded spatial soundscape.

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Overview

The Behringer UC200 Ultra Chorus is an affordable stompbox engineered to deliver classic chorus effects. By modulating the pitch of the signal and blending it back with the original, the pedal creates a shimmering, multi-layered sound. It is frequently cited for its ability to provide stereo depth, making it a versatile tool for both clean and distorted guitar passages.

Key Features and Operation

The UC200 offers a straightforward interface for fine-tuning modulation parameters. The four main controls include:

  • Level: Adjusts the overall volume of the effect.
  • Tone: Shapes the frequency response, allowing for brighter or warmer chorus textures.
  • Rate: Determines the speed of the modulation oscillation.
  • Depth: Controls the intensity and sweep of the effect.

When the pedal is disengaged, the circuit is designed to maintain signal integrity, ensuring that the original tone remains clear and accurate.

Sound Character

The sonic profile of the UC200 is described as rich and thickening. It is intended to enhance the existing harmonic structure of the guitar rather than masking it. In stereo mode, the pedal distributes the effect across two outputs, creating a wider and more immersive auditory experience compared to standard mono operation.

Usage and Artist Association

This pedal is suitable for musicians seeking a budget-friendly way to expand their tonal palette, from subtle doubling effects to more pronounced underwater-style shimmers. It has been notably utilised by artists such as Erham Alman in various musical contexts.

Market Context

Within the compact pedal market, the UC200 occupies an entry-level position alongside other affordable effects like the Fender Hammertone Flanger. While more specialized tools like the Digitech Whammy Ricochet or the Boss DD-3T Digital Delay offer different types of time-based or pitch manipulation, the UC200 remains a dedicated choice for straightforward chorus modulation.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary function of the Behringer UC200?
The primary function is to provide a chorus effect, which thickens and enriches the guitar's tone by mixing a slightly detuned, modulated signal with the dry signal.
Does the UC200 support stereo output?
Yes, it features two outputs that allow for a stereo setup, delivering a wider and more atmospheric sound stage.
What controls are available on the UC200?
The pedal includes Level, Tone, Rate, and Depth controls, allowing the user to precisely shape the intensity and frequency of the chorus.
What is the typical price range for this pedal?
The Behringer UC200 is generally available in the price range of approximately £20.00.
How does the Tone control affect the sound?
The Tone control adjusts the high-frequency content of the effect, making the chorus sound either brighter and more sparkly or warmer and more subtle.
Is the UC200 suitable for clean or distorted tones?
It can be used with both. It adds richness to clean passages and can provide a smoother, more liquid character when used with distortion.
How does the Rate control function?
The Rate control sets the speed at which the chorus effect oscillates, ranging from a slow crawl to a fast, rotary-style pulse.
What does the Depth control do?
The Depth control adjusts the amplitude of the modulation, determining how deep or shallow the pitch-shifting effect sounds.
Does the pedal affect signal clarity when turned off?
Behringer states that the pedal is designed to uphold full signal integrity with maximum clarity and accuracy when it is inactive.
Which notable artists have used the Behringer UC200?
Musician Erham Alman is associated with the use of this specific pedal model.
Can it be used for instruments other than guitar?
While designed primarily for guitars, it can be applied to any instrument with a standard 1/4 inch output, such as keyboards or bass.
How does it compare to a pedal like the Boss DD-3T?
The UC200 is a dedicated chorus pedal for modulation, whereas the Boss DD-3T is a digital delay pedal designed for creating echoes and repetitions.