Get ready to rethink everything you know about pedals, because Behringer just dropped a game-changer: the BM-17 FREQUENCY BOX. This isn’t your average stompbox—it’s a sonic revolution. But here’s where it gets controversial: is it a pedal, an instrument, or something entirely new? Let’s dive in.
Behringer’s latest addition to the BM lineup is a standalone Voltage-Controlled Oscillator (VCO) packed into a pedal format. What does that mean? It’s like giving your setup its own voice—one you can drive with audio input or let run wild on its own. With intuitive controls and versatile connectivity, the BM-17 blurs the lines between synth modules and guitar pedals, making it a must-have for both traditionalists and sonic adventurers.
Think Outside The Box
Forget the rules of what a pedal should do. The BM-17 is a creative powerhouse, not just an effect. At its heart is the VCO, the backbone of analog synthesis, acting like the vocal cords of your sound. Here’s the part most people miss: you control it however you want. Use the latch switch to feed in audio and let the VCO track the pitch, or leave it unlatched for a standalone sonic experiment. It’s not just a tool—it’s an instrument in its own right.
An Instrument For Your Instrument
This pedal is a playground for the curious. Guitarists, get ready to explore uncharted territory. Synth players, producers, and instrumentalists can layer, enhance, or completely transform their sounds. The BM-17 lets you blend clean and wet signals, giving you the power to subtly enhance or radically replace your tone. It’s like having a mini-synth at your feet.
Eye Oh!
You’d think the front panel’s array of controls would be the star of the show, but the real party is on the back. A robust selection of I/O options lets you integrate CV/Expression pedals, output the VCO directly, or even route the Envelope Out. Pair it with other BM series pedals or modular setups, and you’ve got a full-blown sonic laboratory. But here’s the question: is this overkill for a pedal, or the future of compact sound design?
Controversial Question: Is the BM-17 a pedal, an instrument, or something we haven’t even defined yet? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!
