The Behringer FCB1010 has earned its reputation as a long-standing favourite among musicians, thanks to its robust build and extensive feature set. Designed to be a versatile tool for guitarists, keyboardists, and synthesizer players alike, this powerful MIDI pedal effortlessly controls a wide range of devices. With ten freely editable banks offering ten presets each, MIDI merge functions, customisable controller numbers, and the ability to transmit five program changes and two controller values per preset simultaneously, the FCB1010 delivers impressive flexibility. Add to that two built-in expression pedals and switch jacks for controlling analogue gear, and the device becomes a comprehensive solution for managing both compact and complex MIDI setups with ease and reliability.
The 12 footswitches on the surface of the device feature a clearly defined pressure point and exceptional durability, ensuring not only reliable switching between banks and patches but also a long service life under demanding conditions, whether in the rehearsal room or on stage. The two expression pedals, assignable to any desired controller values, are built to withstand intensive use and, thanks to their wide control range, allow for precise and smooth gradation across the full span of the selected parameter. While many users will likely assign one pedal to control the overall system volume, it's just as easy to manage effects like wah-wah or modulation with equal accuracy. The display, positioned at the top of the sturdy metal housing, provides clear and intuitive guidance through the programming process, allowing up to 100 presets to be stored – more than sufficient for most performance and studio needs.
Despite its remarkably affordable price, the FCB1010 isn't just perfect for beginners looking to control a MIDI guitar preamp or synthesizer with minimal programming effort – this MIDI pedal also offers a wealth of features that make it a compelling choice for professionals. Those seeking a reliable controller for their MIDI setup will appreciate its stability, flexibility, and rugged design, all of which are crucial for demanding live environments. The FCB1010 has consistently delivered dependable performance over the years, impressing users with its straightforward programming and a price point that remains well below that of comparable competitors.
The company, which was founded in Germany by Uli Behringer and now manufactures its products in China, has been known for affordable and great-value equipment since its very first product, the Studio Exciter F. An array of mixing consoles (such as the Eurodesk MX8000), signal processors, and later sound amplification and monitoring equipment, has made it possible for countless musicians to fit out their home studios, practice rooms, and mobile PAs within budget limits that were previously unthinkable. The acquisition of other companies, including Midas, Klark Teknik, and TC Electronic, meant that new product groups were added - and also resulted in the technical expertise of these companies being incorporated into product development.
The Behringer FCB1010 leaves little to be desired when it comes to managing and controlling MIDI equipment, effortlessly handling everything from operating synthesizers and keyboards to controlling plug-ins in a DAW or switching a MIDI guitar preamp and connected effects at the press of a button. Built from sturdy sheet steel, the pedal boasts a rugged, road-ready design with four solid rubber feet and a built-in power supply, ensuring durability in demanding environments. Beyond sending and receiving MIDI data, the two switch sockets on the front panel expand its versatility even further, enabling tasks such as channel switching on analogue amplifiers with ease.