Music / Instruments
Polychain Setup Guide for Behringer 2-XM
A comprehensive guide to setting up Polychain on the Behringer 2-XM synthesizer using firmware V1.2.2. Includes instructions for firmware updates, MIDI daisy-chaining, and SynthTribe configuration for polyphonic playback.
Quick answers from the manual
Quick answer
- To enable Polychain on the Behringer 2-XM, update all units to firmware V1.2.2 via the SynthTribe app, set all units to the same MIDI channel and UNI mode, daisy-chain them via MIDI THRU, and configure the 'Poly Chain' settings in the SynthTribe app. p. 1
Key actions
- Update firmware via SynthTribe app p. 1
- Configure Poly Chain settings p. 1
First start
- Update firmware, perform initial hardware setup (MIDI channel, UNI mode), connect MIDI daisy-chain, and configure in SynthTribe. p. 1
Technical specifications
| Parameter | Value | Meaning | Pages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Voice Allocation | 1 unit = 2 voices | Each SEM module equals 1 voice; one 2-XM unit equals 2 voices. | p. 1 |
Where to find it in the PDF
- Polychain Setup Guide p. 1
- Firmware Update Information p. 2
Table of contents
Quick guide from the manual
With firmware V1.2.2, you can link multiple Behringer 2-XM units to achieve true polyphonic playback. Please note the following voice allocation rules:
- Each SEM module: 1 voice
- One 2-XM unit: 2 voices
- Two 2-XMs: 4-voice polyphony
- Three 2-XMs: 6-voice polyphony
Important limitation: You cannot separate individual voices (VCOs) within a single SEM due to hardware limitations.
Update Firmware
Before setting up Polychain, ensure your units are updated:
- Download the latest version of the SynthTribe app from the official Behringer website.
- Connect each 2-XM unit to your computer via USB.
- Use the SynthTribe app to update each unit to the latest firmware.
Initial Setup
Prepare your hardware units before connecting them:
- Power on all 2-XM units and connect their audio outputs.
- Tune each unit to the same pitch.
- Set all units to the same MIDI channel.
- Verify that audio is working correctly from each individual unit.
- On all units, set the Assign switch to UNI mode.
Connect MIDI
To chain the units together:
- Connect your MIDI keyboard or controller's MIDI OUT to the MIDI IN of the first 2-XM unit (or use USB from a DAW).
- Connect the MIDI THRU of the first 2-XM to the MIDI IN of the second 2-XM.
- Repeat this daisy-chain process for any additional units.
Configure SynthTribe App
Once hardware is connected, configure the software:
- Open the SynthTribe app with the first 2-XM connected via USB.
- Navigate to the Poly Chain tab.
- Select the total number of 2-XM units in your setup.
- Set the Voice Mode to Poly.
- Press Enable.
Manufacturer information
Behringer
Practical help
Common problems
Cannot separate individual voices (VCOs) within a single SEM.
This is a hardware limitation; individual voices cannot be separated within a single SEM module.
Before use
- Download the latest SynthTribe app.
- Ensure all 2-XM units are powered on.
- Tune all units to the same pitch.
- Set all units to the same MIDI channel.
- Set the Assign switch to UNI mode on all units.
Model compatibility
- Requires firmware V1.2.2 or later.
Manual page author
Emily Carter
User documentation editor
Prepares concise manual descriptions and highlights the most useful setup, operation, and maintenance information for readers.