Oberheim OB Xa - the monster for deep, fat, dark analog tones

video upload by Sergio Man

"The Oberheim OB-Xa is an absolute monster for deep, fat, dark analog tones—perfect for haunting drones, growling basslines, and eerie pads. Here’s why it stands out:
Why the OB-Xa is Perfect for Dark, Fat Sounds:

🔥 Oscillators – Two massive CEM3340 oscillators per voice, capable of thick detuning, deep PWM, and sinister saw waves.
🔥 Filters – The Curtis low-pass filter (12dB or 24dB) gives it a dark, creamy, and moody resonance. When pushed, it can create growling basses and sinister sweeps.
🔥 Unison Mode – Stacking all voices together creates earth-shaking, monstrous basses.
🔥 LFO Modulation – Slow, deep LFO modulation can bring ominous movement to pads and leads.
🔥 Vintage Drift – Since it's full analog, slight imperfections give it that organic, alive feeling—like a demon breathing in your mix.
Dark Sound Design Ideas:

🔊 Evil Bass – Low-pass filter, resonance at 40%, slight detune, Unison mode.
🌫️ Cinematic Drone – Slow LFO to filter, subtle PWM, a bit of white noise.
🔔 Haunting Bell Pads – High resonance, slow attack, some reverb and delay.
⚡ Aggressive Leads – 24dB filter, medium resonance, quick envelope decay for punch.
Similar Dark & Fat Synths

OB-X8 (2022) – Modern reissue, true to the original OB series.
Sequential Prophet-5/6 – More aggressive and raw, but in a similar analog spirit.
Moog One – Thicker and darker but with a more modern feel."