Behringer SDS-3, clone of the iconic Simmons drum Synthesizer: ready for pre-order - November 3,2025

In 2023, Behringer announced a clone/replica of the Simmons SDS-3 analog drum Synthesizer from 1978. Unlike other manufacturers, they often only present developments that exist on paper or as rough prototypes. This was also the case here.
After two years in development and testing, the Behringer SDS-3 is now officially here and ready for pre-order.



Behringer SDS-3
The SDS-3 is a clone/replica of the classic Simmons SDS-3 analog drum Synthesizer from 1978, based on the original circuitry.

Like the original, the Behringer SDS-3 features four independent drum channels, as well as a channel for special effects. You can trigger them with analog control input, MIDI, or USB.

The first four can be configured as a tone generator or a noise generator. They offer separate controls for impact click, decay envelope, pitch bend envelope with up/down option, pitch, and assignable decay kill.

The effect range parameter mixes the audio rate-capable multi-wave LFO and run-time effects into the channel. Plus, each channel has a dedicated volume control slider. The special effects channel for sound modulation effects is also onboard.



On the connection side, each channel has its own audio output, allowing for external processing and recording. They also have a mic in and out that handles V-trig and S-trig. For example, you can use them to trigger the sounds with an external trigger sequencer.

Furthermore, the unit features a front-panel MIDI input and MIDI Thru on the rear, alongside the main output, pitch pedal, decay kill, USB port, and a power supply input.

Not to forget. The Behringer SDS-3 is both a standalone and Eurorack-mountable analog drum synth. It’s a versatile drum synth that can generate a wide range of drum/percussion sounds, including toms, bass drums, cymbals, bells, gongs, vibes, and more.

First Impression
Since the market for analog drum synthesizers is smaller, I’m pleased to see this clone/replica joining the ranks. The SDS-3 sounds great in the demo, and I’m curious to see how well it compares to the originals.

The Behringer SDS-3 is now shipping to retailers and is available for pre-order with an MSRP (excluding the US) of $249/£249/279€

More information here: Behringer

Source: https://synthanatomy.com/2025/11/be...a-of-the-iconic-simmons-drum-synthesizer.html