Programming the Poly: Automating the Behringer Pro-800 with Web MIDI
The Behringer Pro-800 is an incredible 8-voice analog synthesizer based on the classic Sequential Circuits Prophet-600. It brings lush, rich, multi-voice analog warmth to a highly affordable desktop module.
While the Pro-800 has a built-in sequencer and arpeggiator, you unlock its full potential by automating its parameters remotely in your web browser. Drawing precise CC modulations for its dual oscillators, analog filter, and envelopes transforms static chord progressions into evolving, organic movement.
In this guide, we will cover how to connect, configure, and automate the Behringer Pro-800 using the closeby.1 Web MIDI Sequencer.
The Benefits of Automating the Pro-800
The Pro-800 features full MIDI CC control over almost every parameter on its front panel. Unlike vintage synths that required manual knob twisting, the Pro-800 lets you automate:
- Analog VCF Sweeps: Dynamically open the filter cutoff for dramatic builds and drops.
- Oscillator PWM (Pulse Width Modulation): Evolve the pulse widths of Osc A and Osc B to add thick, chorus-like movement to pads.
- Individual ADSR Control: Create transitioning shapes where envelope attack times lengthen or decay rates shorten rhythmically.
Step-by-Step Connection & Setup
Connecting your Pro-800 to closeby.1 is quick and requires no drivers:
1. Connect via USB or MIDI
Plug a standard USB-B cable from your Pro-800 to your computer. Alternatively, use standard 5-pin MIDI cables from your MIDI interface's MIDI OUT port to the Pro-800's MIDI IN port.
2. Choose the MIDI Channel
On the Pro-800's membrane panel:
- Press the PROG key.
- Enter parameter
31to select the MIDI Input Channel. - Use the keypad to assign the desired channel (default is Channel 1).
3. Load the Pro-800 Profile in closeby.one
- Open closeby.one Studio in Chrome, Edge, or Opera.
- Select the track you wish to use for the Pro-800.
- Choose the Behringer Pro-800 Instrument Profile from the dropdown. This loads the exact parameter mapping.
- Set the MIDI Output to match your Pro-800 device.
- Set the MIDI Channel to match the channel selected on the synth.
Key MIDI CC Parameters for Automation
Here are the most useful MIDI CC numbers for modulating your Pro-800:
| Parameter | MIDI CC | Description |
|---|---|---|
| VCF Freq | CC 87 | Filter cutoff frequency |
| VCF Reso | CC 88 | Filter resonance feedback |
| Osc A Vol | CC 81 | Volume level of Oscillator A |
| Osc A PW | CC 82 | Pulse width for Osc A square wave |
| Osc B PW | CC 85 | Pulse width for Osc B square wave |
| VCF EG Decay | CC 92 | Filter Envelope decay duration |
| VCA Decay | CC 100 | Volume Envelope decay duration |
| LFO Freq | CC 104 | Speed of the LFO modulation |
Drawing Automation Curves in closeby.1
Once connected, you can draw automation lanes:
- Lush Analog Pads: Draw slow, undulating sine waves on Osc A PW (CC 82) and Osc B PW (CC 85). The phase shifting will thicken your chords beautifully without requiring external chorus pedals.
- Filter Sweeps: Draw a rising ramp over 4 bars on VCF Freq (CC 87). Toggle CC Bypass off to let the build run, and toggle it on to freeze the cutoff at its peak when the beat drops.
Connect your Behringer Pro-800 to closeby.1 now to start designing advanced analog movements!