Oberheim OB-8: A Deep Dive

video by wedream2

"Headphones recommended!
I begin this video with a thorough review of the OB-8's sound design parameters. Every function is explained and demonstrated. At ~ 44:00​, I focus on the performance controls--pitch bend, modulation lever, and arpeggiator. I didn't intend to produce an on-line owner's manual, but here it is. I finish the video (starting at ~ 57:08​) by demonstrating some of my double and split sounds.
Despite the OB-8's deficiencies--no oscillator cross modulation, no oscillator low frequency mode, no inverted envelopes, no envelope PWM (except KBD-triggered LFO), no volume control for the noise oscillator, inadequate control of filter kbd-tracking--the OB-8 contains many sound design parameters not found on other synths. These, along with its super smooth filter and "sweet" sound make it one of the top analog synths of all time. I purchased my OB-8 new in 1984. (As my favorite analog synth, I would never trade it for a Memorymoog or a Jupiter 8).
Error correction: I misspoke when I described how to change the direction of pitch bend. I should have said to press and hold the "Upper" and "Amount" buttons in the performance section while powering on the synth. These 2 buttons are just to the right of the 2 that I referenced in the video. Sorry for that error."

Oberheim OB-8 Tips and Tricks

video by wedream2

Update: new tips and tricks video with better audio uploaded.

"In this follow-up to my 'OB-8 Deep Dive' video, I demonstrate some interesting things you can do with the arpeggiator and page 2 functions. I also correct some errors I made in the first video, and demonstrate a few more custom sounds. Headphones are recommended to hear the stereo oscillation of some sounds, especially the 2 inspired by 'Welcome to the Machine.'"