Behringer TD-3-SR Analog Bass Line Synthesizer User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your Behringer TD-3-SR Analog Bass Line Synthesizer. Please read this manual thoroughly to ensure proper use and to fully explore the capabilities of your instrument. Keep this manual for future reference.

2. Safety Instructions

• Power Supply: Use only the specified power adapter. Ensure the voltage matches your region's requirements.
• Water and Moisture: Do not expose the unit to rain, moisture, or any liquids. Avoid placing objects filled with liquids on the unit.
• Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation. Do not block ventilation openings.
• Heat: Do not place near heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
• Cleaning: Clean only with a dry cloth.
• Servicing: Do not attempt to service this product yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items listed below are included in your package:

• Behringer TD-3-SR Analog Bass Line Synthesizer
• Power Adapter
• USB Cable
• Quick Start Guide

4. Product Overview

4.1 Front Panel Controls

Figure 4.1: The Behringer TD-3-SR Analog Bass Line Synthesizer, showing the complete front panel with all controls and buttons.

The front panel of the TD-3-SR is organized into several sections for intuitive control over sound generation and sequencing:

• VCO Section: Controls for the Voltage Controlled Oscillator, including TUNE and WAVEFORM (Sawtooth/Square).
• VCF Section: Controls for the Voltage Controlled Filter, featuring CUTOFF, RESONANCE, ENVELOPE, DECAY, and ACCENT.
• Sequencer Controls: Buttons and switches for pattern programming and playback, including TEMPO, TRACK/PATTERN GROUP, MODE (Play/Write), PITCH MODE, FUNCTION, START/STOP, BAR, SELECTOR, DEL, INS, CH, COPY, PASTE, STEP buttons (1-8, 0, 100, 200), ACCENT, SLIDE, and SYNC.
• Distortion Section: An integrated distortion effect with an ON/OFF switch, TONE, and LEVEL controls.
• Volume Control: A master VOLUME knob for output level adjustment.

Figure 4.2: Close-up view of the Distortion and Volume sections on the Behringer TD-3-SR, highlighting the ON/OFF switch, TONE, LEVEL, and master VOLUME controls.

4.2 Rear Panel Connections

Figure 4.3: The rear panel of the Behringer TD-3-SR, displaying all input and output connections for audio, MIDI, USB, and power.

The rear panel provides essential connectivity for integrating the TD-3-SR into your studio or live setup:

• SYNC IN: 3.5mm input for external clock synchronization.
• CV OUT: 3.5mm output for controlling external analog gear with control voltage.
• GATE OUT: 3.5mm output for sending gate signals to external analog gear.
• PHONES: 3.5mm stereo output for headphones.
• OUTPUT: 1/4" mono output for connecting to mixers, audio interfaces, or amplifiers.
• MIDI IN/OUT/THRU: 5-pin DIN connectors for MIDI communication with other devices.
• USB: USB-B port for MIDI over USB and firmware updates.
• POWER DC INPUT: Connection for the included power adapter (9V DC, 300mA).

5. Setup

1. Power Connection: Connect the included power adapter to the POWER DC INPUT on the rear panel and then to a suitable power outlet.
2. Audio Connection: Connect the OUTPUT jack to your mixer, audio interface, or amplifier using a 1/4" TS cable. For private monitoring, connect headphones to the PHONES jack.
3. MIDI/USB Connection (Optional): If integrating with other MIDI devices, connect MIDI cables to the MIDI IN/OUT/THRU ports. For computer connectivity, use the supplied USB cable to connect the USB port to your computer.
4. Power On: Ensure all connections are secure, then flip the power switch located next to the DC input to the 'ON' position.

6. Basic Operation

6.1 Generating a Basic Sound

1. Turn the master VOLUME knob to a low setting.
2. Set the MODE switch to 'PLAY'.
3. Press the START/STOP button to begin playback of a default pattern.
4. Adjust the TUNE knob in the VCO section to change the pitch.
5. Select a WAVEFORM (Sawtooth or Square) using the switch in the VCO section.
6. Experiment with the VCF controls: CUTOFF (filter frequency), RESONANCE (filter emphasis), ENVELOPE (filter modulation depth), DECAY (envelope decay time), and ACCENT (accent level).
7. Adjust the master VOLUME to a comfortable listening level.

6.2 Using the Distortion Effect

Figure 6.1: The Distortion section, showing the ON/OFF switch and TONE/LEVEL knobs.

The TD-3-SR includes a built-in distortion effect to add grit and character to your bass lines.

1. To activate the distortion, set the DISTORTION switch to 'ON'.
2. Adjust the TONE knob to shape the frequency content of the distorted sound.
3. Use the LEVEL knob to control the intensity of the distortion effect.

7. Sequencer Operation

Figure 7.1: Close-up of the sequencer section, showing step buttons, function buttons, and pattern group selector.

The TD-3-SR features a 16-step sequencer for creating and playing bass lines.

7.1 Selecting a Pattern Group

• Use the TRACK/PATTERN GROUP rotary switch to select one of the four available pattern groups (I, II, III, IV). Each group contains multiple patterns.

7.2 Entering Write Mode

• To program a pattern, set the MODE switch to 'WRITE'. The unit will stop playback if it was running.

7.3 Step Entry

1. In 'WRITE' mode, press the STEP buttons (1-8) to enter notes. Each press advances the sequencer to the next step.
2. Use the DEL button to delete the note at the current step.
3. Use the INS button to insert a step before the current step.
4. To add an ACCENT or SLIDE to a step, press the corresponding button while the step is active or immediately after entering a note.

7.4 Playing Patterns

1. Set the MODE switch to 'PLAY'.
2. Press the START/STOP button to begin playback of the selected pattern.
3. Adjust the TEMPO knob to change the playback speed.
4. The SYNC switch allows internal or external clock synchronization.

8. MIDI and USB Connectivity

The TD-3-SR offers comprehensive MIDI and USB connectivity for integration with other musical equipment and computers.

• MIDI IN: Receives MIDI data for controlling the TD-3-SR's notes, parameters, and clock.
• MIDI OUT: Transmits MIDI data generated by the TD-3-SR, including sequencer patterns and knob movements.
• MIDI THRU: Passes through incoming MIDI data from the MIDI IN port to another device.
• USB MIDI: Connect the TD-3-SR to a computer via the USB-B port. This allows for MIDI control from a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) and enables firmware updates. The TD-3-SR will appear as a standard MIDI device on your computer.

9. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to clean the exterior of the unit. Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or waxes.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the TD-3-SR in a dry, dust-free environment, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the Behringer website for available firmware updates to ensure optimal performance and access to new features.

10. Troubleshooting

• No Sound Output:
  • Check power connection and ensure the unit is turned on.
  • Verify audio cables are correctly connected to the OUTPUT and your audio system.
  • Ensure the master VOLUME knob is turned up.
  • If using headphones, check the headphone connection and volume.
  • Ensure a pattern is playing and the MODE switch is set to 'PLAY'.
• Sequencer Not Playing/Responding:
  • Check if the MODE switch is set to 'PLAY'.
  • Ensure the START/STOP button has been pressed.
  • If using external sync, verify the external clock source is active and the SYNC switch is set correctly.
• MIDI Control Issues:
  • Verify MIDI cables are securely connected to the correct MIDI IN/OUT ports.
  • Check MIDI channel settings on both the TD-3-SR and the controlling device.
  • If using USB MIDI, ensure the USB cable is connected and the TD-3-SR is recognized by your computer/DAW.

11. Specifications

12. Warranty and Support

Behringer products are designed for reliability and performance. This product is covered by a limited warranty. For detailed warranty terms and conditions, product registration, and technical support, please visit the official Behringer website or contact your local distributor. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.