Behringer MS-101 vs Roland SH-101 - The 101 Shootout

In this video from Youtuber Failed Muso, we get an in-depth comparison between the Behringer MS-101 and the vintage Roland SH-101 from which the former is cloned.

The main objective of this video is to demonstrate how close the MS-101 gets to sounding like the SH-101 and to see if it really can be a viable alternative to a synth that still commands £1K+ on the second hand market. As such, it is more of a comparison video, rather than one that explores all the sonic possibilities, features and functionality of the MS-101.

Behringer MS-101 Features

• Legendary monophonic synthesizer with authentic 3340 analog oscillator for insanely fat music creation
• 32 semi-weighted full-size keys for great playability
• Pure analog signal path based on legendary VCO, VCF and VCA designs to recreate the classic sound performance
• Oscillator with 4 simultaneously, mixable waveforms: saw, triangle, square/pwm and octave-divided square sub-oscillator
• Resonant VCF can be modulated with ADSR, LFO, keyboard tracking and bender controller
• 6 FM sources allow for creative VCF modulation and unheard of filter effects
• ADSR envelope generator for incredible wave shaping
• Easy-to-use voltage controlled 32-step sequencer with 64 sequence locations
• Arpeggiator with wide patterns for great sound effects
• Attachable handgrip included with pitch bend wheel and a pitch modulation trigger
• Guitar strap included for live jamming on stage
• Bender assignable to VCO, VCF and pitch mod wheel on attachable handgrip
• Noise generator can be used as modulation source for distortion-like effects
• Incredible portamento function with auto mode for fantastic sound effects
• Pulse wave can be modulated by LFO, envelope and manually
• 57 sliders and switches to give you direct and real-time access to all important parameters
• External audio input for processing external sound sources
• Comprehensive MIDI implementation with MIDI channel and Voice Priority selection

From cloning the SH-101 to other notable Roland synths like the TR-808 and TR-909, Behringer has certainly been sparking excitement. Not only are these clones affordably priced, with the MS-101 clone costing $329.99, but they arguably sound almost identical to their predecessors.

Next: Minimoog Model D Vs. Behringer D Clone – Sound