Behringer 297 Dual Portamento/CV Utilities Eurorack Module

Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your Behringer 297 Dual Portamento/CV Utilities Eurorack Module. The Behringer 297 is a versatile utility module designed to expand the capabilities of your Eurorack system, featuring dual portamento circuits and two independent four-channel CV mixers.

It is a faithful reproduction of a module from an iconic 1980s modular synthesizer, offering robust signal manipulation possibilities for complex patches.

Product Overview

Figure 1: Front panel of the Behringer 297 module. This image displays the layout of the module, including the two mixer sections (MIXER 1 and MIXER 2) and the two portamento sections (PORTA 1 and PORTA 2). Each mixer section features four signal inputs (SIG IN 1-4), corresponding attenuator knobs, inverted outputs (INV OUT), non-inverted outputs (NON INV OUT), and constant voltage outputs (+10V OUT, -10V OUT). The portamento sections include signal input (SIG IN), signal output (SIG OUT), a time slider, and a CV input (CV IN).

The Behringer 297 module is a 16HP Eurorack module designed for signal processing within a modular synthesizer setup. It integrates two distinct functionalities:

• Dual Portamento: Two independent portamento circuits allow for smooth transitions between control voltage (CV) signals. The transition time is adjustable via a slider or external CV input.
• Dual Four-Channel CV Mixers: Two independent mixers, each capable of combining up to four CV signals. These mixers provide both inverted and non-inverted outputs, along with fixed +10V and -10V constant voltage outputs for various patching needs.

Setup

Power Connection

The Behringer 297 is a Eurorack module and requires a compatible Eurorack power supply. Ensure your Eurorack case's power supply can provide sufficient current for all installed modules. Connect the ribbon cable from the module to your Eurorack power bus board, ensuring the red stripe on the ribbon cable aligns with the -12V pin on both the module and the bus board. Incorrect power connection can damage the module.

Module Installation

Carefully align the module with the rail screws in your Eurorack case. Secure the module using the provided screws. Avoid overtightening to prevent damage to the module or case.

Operating Instructions

Portamento Section (PORTA 1 & PORTA 2)

Figure 2: Detail of the Portamento section. This section illustrates the SIG IN jack for inputting control voltage, the SIG OUT jack for the smoothed output, the TIME slider for manual adjustment of the portamento effect, and the CV IN jack for external control of the time parameter.

• SIG IN: Connect the control voltage signal you wish to apply portamento to (e.g., pitch CV from a sequencer or keyboard).
• TIME Slider: Adjusts the rate of the portamento effect. A higher setting results in a slower, smoother transition between CV values. The range is from 0 to 10.
• CV IN: Allows external control voltage to modulate the portamento time. This enables dynamic control over the smoothing effect.
• SIG OUT: Outputs the processed (smoothed) control voltage signal. Connect this to the destination module (e.g., a VCO's 1V/Oct input).

CV Mixer Section (MIXER 1 & MIXER 2)

Figure 3: Detail of the Mixer section. This image highlights the four SIG IN jacks for mixing multiple control voltages, the individual attenuator knobs (0-10) for each input, the INV OUT (inverted output) and NON INV OUT (non-inverted output) jacks, and the dedicated +10V OUT and -10V OUT jacks for constant voltage supply.

• SIG IN 1-4: Input jacks for up to four control voltage signals (e.g., LFOs, envelopes, sample & hold, sequencers).
• Attenuator Knobs (0-10): Each SIG IN has a dedicated knob to adjust the level of the incoming signal before mixing.
• INV OUT (1 & 2): Provides an inverted sum of the mixed signals. If only one input is used, it acts as an inverter for that signal.
• NON INV OUT (1 & 2): Provides a non-inverted sum of the mixed signals.
• +10V OUT: Provides a constant +10V control voltage. Useful for offsetting other CV signals or providing a fixed voltage to modules.
• -10V OUT: Provides a constant -10V control voltage. Useful for offsetting other CV signals or providing a fixed voltage to modules.

Patching Examples

• Smooth Pitch Changes: Connect a sequencer's pitch CV output to PORTA 1 SIG IN, then PORTA 1 SIG OUT to a VCO's 1V/Oct input. Adjust the TIME slider for desired glide.
• Complex LFOs: Mix multiple LFOs into MIXER 1 SIG INs, then use NON INV OUT to modulate a filter cutoff or VCA.
• CV Offset: Use the +10V OUT or -10V OUT from a mixer section, combined with another CV signal in the same mixer, to offset the range of the second CV signal.

Maintenance

The Behringer 297 module is designed for reliable operation with minimal maintenance. Keep the module clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning the front panel. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.

Ensure all patch cables are in good condition and free from damage. Periodically check the power connection for secure fit.

Troubleshooting

• No Output Signal:
  • Verify the module is correctly powered and the ribbon cable is properly connected (red stripe to -12V).
  • Check all patch cable connections.
  • Ensure input signals are present and at appropriate levels.
  • For mixers, check attenuator knob positions.
• Unexpected Behavior:
  • Review your patching. Incorrect patching can lead to unexpected results.
  • Ensure CV signals are within the expected voltage range for Eurorack modules.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Behringer website or contact your authorized Behringer dealer. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Official Behringer Website: www.behringer.com