BEHRINGER SWING 32-Key USB MIDI Controller Keyboard

1. Introduction

The BEHRINGER SWING is a versatile 32-key USB MIDI controller keyboard designed for controlling synthesizers and virtual instruments. It features a 64-step polyphonic sequencer, chord play mode, and an arpeggiator, offering extensive creative possibilities in a compact and portable form factor. This manual provides detailed instructions for setup, operation, and maintenance of your SWING controller.

Figure 1.1: Top view of the BEHRINGER SWING MIDI Controller, showing the 32 keys, control knobs, and touch-strips.

2. Setup

Before operating your BEHRINGER SWING, ensure it is properly connected to your computer, synthesizer, or other MIDI-compatible devices.

2.1 Powering the Device

• USB Power: Connect the micro USB port on the rear panel of the SWING to a USB port on your computer or a USB power adapter using a USB cable (not supplied). The device is class-compliant and typically does not require additional drivers for basic functionality.
• External Power Adapter: For standalone operation or if USB power is insufficient, connect an optional 9V DC, 0.5A (500mA) power adapter with a 5.5mm x 2.1mm plug (center positive) to the DC IN port.

2.2 Connecting to Other Devices

• USB MIDI: Connect the micro USB port to your computer. The SWING will appear as a MIDI input/output device in your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) or music software.
• Standard MIDI: Use 5-pin DIN MIDI cables to connect the MIDI IN and MIDI OUT ports to external MIDI hardware.
• CV/Gate: Connect 3.5mm TS cables from the MOD, GATE, and PITCH CV outputs to compatible Eurorack or analog synthesizers.
• Sustain Pedal: Connect an optional 1/4" TS sustain footswitch to the SUSTAIN input for extended note hold functionality.
• Sync: Use 3.5mm TRS cables for external clock synchronization via the SYNC IN and SYNC OUT ports. Dip switches on the rear panel allow selection of sync source (internal, USB, MIDI, sync in).

Figure 2.1: Rear panel connections including DC IN, USB, MIDI In/Out, CV/Gate outputs, Sustain, and Sync In/Out.

3. Controls and Features

The BEHRINGER SWING offers a range of controls for expressive performance and sequencing.

3.1 Keyboard

• 32 Compact-Sized Keys: These keys are velocity-sensitive and support aftertouch, allowing for dynamic and expressive playing.

3.2 Touch-Strips

• Pitch Bend: Located on the left, this touch-strip allows for real-time pitch modulation.
• Modulation: Adjacent to the pitch bend, this touch-strip controls modulation parameters, often assigned to vibrato or filter cutoff.

3.3 Knobs and Switches

• Tempo Knob: Adjusts the playback speed of sequences and arpeggios.
• Mode Switch: An 8-position switch to select different operational modes or parameters.
• Scale Switch: An 8-position switch to select different time signatures or rhythmic divisions.
• Shift Button: Activates secondary functions printed above or below other controls. Hold this button while pressing other keys or buttons to access these functions (e.g., MIDI channel selection, gate time, swing values).
• Hold/Chord Button: Toggles note hold or activates Chord Play mode.
• Octave Transpose Buttons (OCT-/OCT+): Adjusts the keyboard's octave range.
• Arp/Seq Toggle: Switches between Arpeggiator and Sequencer modes.

3.4 Transport Controls

• Tap/Rest/Tie Button: Used for entering rests or ties in sequencer mode, or for tap tempo.
• Record/Append Button: Initiates sequence recording. When holding Shift, it appends to an existing sequence.
• Stop/Clear Last Button: Stops playback. When holding Shift, it clears the last entered step.
• Pause/Play/Restart Button: Controls playback of sequences and arpeggios.

4. Sequencing and Arpeggiator

The SWING features powerful sequencing and arpeggiator capabilities for creating complex musical patterns.

4.1 Sequencer Mode

• 64-Step Polyphonic Sequencer: Create sequences with up to 8-note polyphony per step.
• Recording: Press the Record button to begin recording notes played on the keyboard.
• Editing: Use the Shift + Append to add notes to an existing sequence, and Shift + Clear Last to remove the last step.
• Rest/Tie: Incorporate rests or ties into your sequence using the Tap/Rest/Tie button.
• Ratchet and Random Gate: These functions provide creative variations to your sequences.

4.2 Arpeggiator Mode

• Activation: Toggle to Arpeggiator mode using the Arp/Seq button.
• Arpeggio Styles: The Style/Pattern knob allows selection of 8 different playing orders, including up, down, inclusive, exclusive, random, note order, double up, and double down.
• 8 Simultaneous Notes: The arpeggiator can handle up to 8 notes simultaneously per step.

4.3 Chord Play Mode

• Activation: Press the Hold/Chord button to engage Chord Play mode.
• 16-Note Chords: This mode allows you to play a chord with up to 16 notes using a single key, facilitating complex harmonic structures.

5. Maintenance

Proper care ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your BEHRINGER SWING.

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the surface of the controller. Avoid abrasive cleaners, solvents, or waxes.
• Storage: Store the device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity.
• Handling: Avoid dropping the unit or subjecting it to strong impacts. Do not place heavy objects on the keyboard.
• Liquid Exposure: Keep liquids away from the device to prevent damage to internal components.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your BEHRINGER SWING, refer to the following common problems and solutions.

7. Specifications

Technical specifications for the BEHRINGER SWING MIDI Controller.

8. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or to download the latest firmware and software, please visit the official Behringer website:

www.behringer.com

You can also download the Control Tribe App via Google Play or the Apple App Store for additional functionality and settings customization.