Oberheim Introduces OB-X8 Desktop Analog Synth Module

You might remember Oberheim mentioning they had something new coming to this year's Superbooth.

Here it is. The OB-X8 Desktop Module. Be sure to click the pics for the full size shots.

Press release follows:

Oberheim Announces OB-X8 Desktop Analog Synth Module Fits Perfectly into Your Studio, Your Music, Your Life

San Francisco, CA — Oberheim today announced the much-anticipated desktop version of their highly acclaimed OB-X8 eight-voice analog synthesizer, which faithfully recreates sounds from the classic Oberheim OB-X, OB-Xa and OB-8 synthesizers of the eighties. And now all its presets, synthesis features, and sound editing controls are available in a compact package that fits everyone’s creative space.

“The original OB synths were jam-packed with components and took up a lot of space. There was no way you could contemplate getting even a four-voice version of that sound out of a desktop or rack-mount unit,” mused Tom Oberheim. “Well, here we are in 2023: eight voices of our amazing OB-X8 three-in-one synthesizer now comes in a size that fits your studio.”

The new OB-X8 desktop version does not include the 61-note Fatar keyboard and expression levers found in the original, but don’t let that stop you from experiencing all the sonic power of these monster synths in a footprint that’s compact enough for studios of any size, and convenient enough to take on the road.

Just like the keyboard version, the desktop OB-X8 boasts an identical sound engine, featuring an all-analog signal path with discrete VCOs, VCAs, and filters. And it still manages to provide the same knob-per-function front panel sound designing experience, with immediate access to virtually all the synth’s parameters.

“Bringing back the Oberheim brand has been a joy,” said David Gibbons, CEO. “And since the introduction of the OB-X8 keyboard in May 2022, we’ve heard an overwhelming desire for a desktop module version catering to those whose free studio space doesn’t quite match their enthusiasm for unique synth sounds.”

In the hands of such luminaries as Prince, Van Halen, and Herbie Hancock, Oberheim synths were more than just instruments, they provided the soundtrack of an era. Now a whole new generation of artists are discovering their voices through OB-X8. “When I was shown the new OB-X8, I was immediately impressed with the forensic level of detail that went into its design and the respect for its lineage,” said Trent Reznor, the creative force behind Nine Inch Nails, and an Academy Award-winning composer. “I’m excited more people will be able to experience this classic instrument.”

OB-X8 desktop module weighs approximately 9 lbs. 9 oz. (4.34 kg) and measures 22.00” L x 8.50” W x 4” H (55.88 cm x 21.59 cm x 10.16 cm).

The OB-X8 desktop module is available for pre-order now, with a US MAP price of $3,499. Shipping worldwide in June.

For more information about the OB-X8 desktop module, visit us at:

https://oberheim.com/

Additional details & specs:

The Perfect Fit 
The OB-X8 synthesizer has been universally acclaimed for bringing Oberheim's classic tone to a whole new generation. And now, all the OB-X8 presets, synthesis features, and sound editing controls are available in a compact package that fits everyone’s creative space.  

The new OB-X8 desktop version has everything the keyboard version has with the exception of the 61-note Fatar keybed and the pitch and mod levers, but don't let that stop you from experiencing all the sonic power of the Oberheim OB-X, OB-Xa, and OB-8 in a footprint that's compact enough for studios of any size, and convenient enough to take out on the road! 
 
Think Small, Play Big 
The OB-X8 desktop module boasts an identical sound engine to the keyboard version, featuring an all-analog signal path with discrete VCOs, VCAs, and filters. And with its knob-per-function sound designing experience, you'll have immediate access to virtually all the synth's parameters, allowing you to create your own unique sounds with ease and precision. 
  
Pure Analog 
The audio signal path of the OB-X8 is all analog, filled with warmth and punch. It’s the same trademark Oberheim sound that made iconic tracks like 1999 by Prince, Jump by Van Halen, and Tom Sawyer by Rush so unforgettable. And now it’s yours to enhance your own music. 
  
All New Sounds 
The classic OB-series factory sounds that you know from countless recordings are all here. But that’s just the start: our network of world-class sound designers has created jaw-dropping new sounds just for the OB-X8. And because the OB-X8 has a clear and easy-to-grasp set of controls, creating your own sounds is as easy as turning a few knobs and saving what you like. 
  
Three In One 
The OB-X8 combines the three different voice architectures of the OB-X, OB-Xa, and OB-8 into a single instrument. The individual filter types and other unique characteristics of each model have been faithfully reproduced, giving you the most authentic OB experience possible. You can even mix elements of different models to create sounds never possible with the originals. There’s never been an OB-series synth as powerful and versatile. 
 
Page 2022
OB insiders know that the myriad of “Page 2″ functions unlocked the hidden power of the original OB-8. We’ve included all of the classic Page 2 parameters and created new ones for 2022, giving you direct access to 40+ nuanced controls such as additional SEM filter modes, per-voice panning, LFO keyboard tracking, Mod delay time and envelope inversion, independent pulse width control, and much more. 


Specifications
  Hardware  
• 8-voice pure-analog polyphony  
• Two discrete OB-X/SEM-lineage VCOs per voice deliver classic punchy Oberheim tone  
• Discrete SEM-lineage VCFs deliver authentic OB-X-style tone and presence  
• Genuine Curtis filters add bold OB-Xa/OB-8 character  
• Meticulously modeled envelope responses match each OB model: OB-X, Ob-Xa, and OB-8  
• Bi-timbral capability allows two presets simultaneously for splits and doubles  
• 400-plus factory programs, including the full set of factory sounds for the OB-X, OB-SX, Ob-Xa, and OB-8  
• Integral fan-less, heatsink-free power supply  
• Real walnut end cheeks  
• High-resolution OLED display enables patch management and easy access to advanced features  
  
Enhancements  
• Additional SEM filter modes add high-pass, band-pass, and notch functions to the classic OB-X filter  
• Vintage knob allows variable amounts of voice-to-voice variability to emulate the behavior of vintage instruments   
• Velocity response adds expressiveness to volume and filter   

• Channel Aftertouch response adds real-time performance-based modulation  
• Enhanced unison allows variable voice stacking from 1-8 voices  
• Programmable per-voice pan allows wider stereo presence  
• Variable oscillator and noise levels  
• Variable triangle wave cross-modulation  
• Over 600 user-programmable preset locations  
   
Ins & Outs  
• L/R Stereo and Mono outputs  
• Volume, Sustain, and Filter pedal inputs  
• Arpeggiator clock input  
• MIDI In, Out, Thru  
• USB 
   
OB-X8 desktop module weighs 9 lbs. 9 oz. (4.34 kg) and measures 22.00” L x 8.50” W x 4” H (55.88 cm x 21.59 cm x 10.16 cm).