Julian "J3PO" Pollack Sessions: #2 Let's Put It Together

Published on Jan 16, 2019 NordKeyboards

"The second episode of our exclusive J3PO Sessions features the energetic piece "Let's Put It Together" where Julian blends jazz with some experimental electronic genres!

All patches used in this session are included in the brilliant J3PO Signature Sound Bank for Nord Stage 3 - available for free at nordkeyboards.com!

Read more about Julian "J3PO" Pollack (The Lesson GK, Marcus Miller, members of Snarky Puppy, Grace Weber) here: https://www.nordkeyboards.com/artist/...

The J3PO session was recorded live at RMV Studios in Stockholm, November 2018.

Drums: Morgan Ågren
Bass: Gustaf Hielm
Audio Engineer: Johan Eckerblad
Composition/Audio Mixing: Julian "J3PO" Pollack
Cameras: Oscar Barkenbom/Benjamin Cotton
#iseenord"

Julian "J3PO" Pollack Sessions: #5 1988

Published on Apr 17, 2019 NordKeyboards

"This fifth episode of our exclusive J3PO Sessions is based on some of Julian's amazing 80s retro synth patches, inspired by his analog synth collection. All patches are included in the brilliant J3PO Signature Sound Bank for Nord Stage 3 - available for free at nordkeyboards.com!

Read more about Julian "J3PO" Pollack (The Lesson GK, Marcus Miller, members of Snarky Puppy, Grace Weber) here: https://www.nordkeyboards.com/artist/...

The J3PO session was recorded live at RMV Studios in Stockholm, November 2018.

Drums: Morgan Ågren
Bass: Gustaf Hielm
Audio Engineer: Johan Eckerblad
Composition/Audio Mixing: Julian 'J3PO' Pollack
Cameras: Oscar Barkenbom/Benjamin Cotton"

The Sound of the Nord Stage 4 ft J3PO - Layers & Pads

video upload by nordkeyboards

"In this second episode Julian "J3PO" Pollack showcasing Layered sounds and Pads on the Nord Stage 4. All patches in this sound demos series are included in the Nord Stage 4 factory bank.
Watch all episodes here:

• The Sound of the ...
#nordstage4 #j3po #layers #pads #iseenord

The Nord Stage 4 is a new generation of our acclaimed flagship series. With an intuitive new panel design, a premium triple sensor keybed, complete effect sections for each layer and massive enhancements to our award-winning technologies, the Nord Stage 4 sets a new standard. Read more at https://www.nordstage4.com/

About J3PO:
Julian “J3PO” Pollack is an established keyboardist/producer based in Los Angeles who has recorded/performed with the likes of Marcus Miller, Talib Kweli, Dave Sanborn, Kamasi Washington, Michael League (Snarky Puppy) and The Lesson GK.

The Sound of the Nord Stage 4:
Performance and demos by Julian "J3PO" Pollack
Audio Engineer: Sam Brawner
Video production: Hrdwrker
Video editing: Jonas Embring
Executive Producer: David Sjöqvist
Location: Blue Dream Studios, LA
Gear: Nord Stage 4 88"

Pitch Bend and Mod Wheel - with J3PO

video upload by J3PO

"In this video, Julian 'J3PO' Pollack discusses the pitch bend and mod wheels on synthesizers and how to use them with the most expressive technique.

Video Navigation:
00:00 Intro
01:04 Minimoog Exploration
03:53 Prophet Rev 2 Exploratio
10:49 Outro

***

Julian has presets available for the Prophet Rev 2, Prophet 6, OB-6, Prophet 5/10, Omnisphere, Softube Model 84, Model 72, Arturia OB-Xa, Arturia Stage-73 and a free bank of 50 sounds for the free VST synth “OB-Xd” — all available on my website. If you're a Nord Stage 3 user, download my bank from the Nord Keyboards website. I have a sample pack, "J3PO x The Ox" (hip hop and soul keyboard and drum loops) available on Splice.

***

Julian “J3PO” Pollack is a Los Angeles-based pianist/keyboardist and producer described by Timeout New York as a musician who “deftly balances virtuosity with tenderness.” Julian is known for his innovative use of keyboards and synthesizers in jazz, fusion, hip-hop, and electronic styles of music. Julian has toured extensively with the legendary artist Marcus Miller, as well as performing with artists such as Talib Kweli, David Sanborn, Michael League, Eric Harland, and others. Julian has worked closely as a sound designer with keyboard/synth companies Nord Keyboards, Sequential, and Oberheim, and has created factory presets for the Prophet 5, the Oberheim OB-X8, Take 5, Nord Stage 3, and Nord Wave 2. In addition to these hardware keyboard companies, Julian also has done sound design for Universal Audio (most recently, Opal, a new wavetable synthesizer), Softube, and Cherry Audio."

Introducing the J3PO Signature Sound Bank for Nord Wave 2

NordKeyboards

"We're happy to release the J3PO Signature Sound Bank for Nord Wave 2 containing a unique selection of sounds created by Julian "J3PO" Pollack. J3PO has re-created some of his favourite analog patches, smooth FM synths, beautiful sampled based sounds as well as exclusive J3PO signature patches. Most of the sounds are included in the demo series "The Sound of the Nord Wave 2" that was released earlier this summer.

Julian "J3PO" Pollack is an established pianist/keyboardist, producer, and audio engineer based out of Los Angeles, CA and has worked with the likes of Marcus Miller, Michael League (Snarky Puppy) and Kamasi Washington. He is also a member of the renowed live act The Lesson GK.

Download the J3PO Signature Sound Bank for Nord Wave 2 here:
https://www.nordkeyboards.com/sound-l..."

The Sound of the Nord Wave 2 feat. J3PO - #3 FM/Wavetable

NordKeyboards

"Julian 'J3PO' Pollack demonstrates some brilliant patches based on FM and Wavetable synthesis in this new episode. All patches will be available in the upcoming J3PO Sound Bank for Nord Wave 2!

This brand new series shows the unique range of sounds and capabilities of the Nord Wave 2. With a total of 5 episodes, LA-based keyboardist Julian "J3PO" Pollack demonstrates the different sound categories as well as complex layers and rhythmic patches."

The Sound of the Nord Wave 2 feat. J3PO - #4 Layers

NordKeyboards

"Watch Julian 'J3PO' Pollack demonstrate some amazing layered sounds in this new episode. All patches in this episode will be available in the upcoming J3PO Sound Bank for the Nord Wave 2!

This brand new series shows the unique range of sounds and capabilities of the Nord Wave 2. With a total of 5 episodes, LA-based keyboardist Julian 'J3PO' Pollack demonstrates the different sound categories as well as complex layers and rhythmic patches."

J3PO King Korg Neo Presets -- Official Sounds Demo

video upload by J3PO

"You can purchase the preset pack here:
https://www.julianpollack.com/shop
The introductory price is $29.

All FX (chorus, reverbs, delays, etc.) are coming from within the patches themselves i.e. there's no other external processing on this demo save for some slight light leveling/compression for the purpose of uploading to YouTube.

The King Korg Neo is an unexpected gem, challenging assumptions about what a compact, portable, digital synth can be. Its sound is both vibrant and complex, weaving warm, analog-like textures with modern digital tones that feel raw yet polished. With a bold 24-voice polyphony and versatile oscillators, the King Korg Neo manages to feel timeless and forward-looking, carrying an unmistakable authenticity.

I also have patches available for the Prophet Rev 2, Prophet 6, OB-6, OB-X8, Prophet 5/10, Softube Model 84, Model 72, Arturia OB-Xa, Arturia Stage-73 and many others. If you're a Nord Stage 3 user, download my bank from the Nord Keyboards website. I have a sample pack, "J3PO x The Ox" (hip hop and soul keyboard and drum loops) available on Splice.

About the sound designer: Julian “J3PO” Pollack is a Los Angeles-based pianist/keyboardist and producer described by Timeout New York as a musician who “deftly balances virtuosity with tenderness.” Julian is known for his innovative use of keyboards and synthesizers in jazz, fusion, hip-hop, and electronic styles of music. Julian has toured extensively with the legendary artists Marcus Miller and Chris Botti, as well as performing with greats such as Herbie Hancock, Talib Kweli, David Sanborn, Michael League, Eric Harland, and others. Julian has worked closely as a sound designer with keyboard/synth companies Nord Keyboards, Sequential, and Oberheim, and has created factory presets for the Prophet 5, the Oberheim OB-X8, Take 5, Nord Stage 3, Nord Wave 2, and many others. In addition to these hardware keyboard companies, Julian also has done sound design for Universal Audio, Softube, and Cherry Audio.

Currently, Julian works exclusively with Spectrasonics in Pasadena, California."

Julian "J3PO" Pollack jamming on the Nord Wave 2

NordKeyboards

"Julian "J3PO" Pollack shows a creative way of using the Nord Wave 2 in a live performance by combining the arpeggio and pattern feature with some bass and synth patches. Watch this! #nordwave2 #j3po #tutorials"

Nord at NAMM 2020: Julian "J3PO" Pollack showcasing the Nord Wave 2

Published on Jan 23, 2020 NordKeyboards

"Watch Julian 'J3PO' Pollack showcase the brand new Nord Wave 2 at NAMM 2020!"

The Pro 3 Sequencer

video upload by Sequential

"Julian (J3PO) Pollack continues his 3-part YouTube series covering the Pro 3, this time focusing on the powerful sequencer."

Julian (J3PO) Pro 3 posts

https://www.sequential.com/product/pro-3/

Pro 3: A Deeper Dive – Tuned Feedback, Mod Matrix, and Effects

video upload by Sequential

"Julian (J3PO) Pollack continues his 3-part YouTube series covering the Pro 3."

Follow-up to The Pro 3 Sound – VCOs, Wavetables, And 3 Filters

Julian (J3PO) Pro 3 posts

https://www.sequential.com/product/pro-3/

J3PO UDO Super 6 Presets -- Official Sounds Demo

video upload by J3PO

"In this video, Julian "J3PO" Pollack demos the 40 presets included in the "J3PO Super 6 Presets" library. 40 patches for the UDO Super 6. The price is $29 and you can purchase these presets from www.j3po.net

For the recording of this video, the UDO Super 6 was connected directly to a UA Apollo, recorded straight to Pro Tools. All FX (chorus, delay) you hear are coming from within the synth itself. Some compression and general leveling was applied for the purpose of uploading to YouTube.

The Super 6 is a 12-voice polyphonic, binaural analog-hybrid synthesizer. A harmonious marriage of state of the art FPGA digital hardware oscillators and voltage controlled analog technology. It is flexible, immediate, powerful and refined with a gorgeous analog tone. Rich and evolving textures are easily teased from the unique super-wavetable core and can be shaped and manipulated with the binaural analog signal path and flexible modulation. Robust, compact and inviting to pick up and play with smooth, solid and responsive controls throughout, it cries out to be played."

J3PO - "Autumn '86"

video by J3PO

"Autumn '86" by Julian "J3PO" Pollack.

More music at: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0lSFr...

Get synth patches at: www.j3po.net"

The Sound of the Nord Wave 2 feat. J3PO - #5 Rhythmic

NordKeyboards 

"This final episode shows different rhythmic patches based on the arpeggiator and gate features in the Nord Wave 2. All patches in this episode will be available in the upcoming J3PO Sound Bank for the Nord Wave 2! This brand new series shows the unique range of sounds and capabilities of the Nord Wave 2. With a total of 5 episodes, LA-based keyboardist Julian 'J3PO' Pollack demonstrates the different sound categories as well as complex layers and rhythmic patches." 

The Sound of the Nord Wave 2 feat. J3PO

Nord Wave 2 Tutorials feat. J3PO: #1 Layers and Groups

NordKeyboards

Introducing the first episode of our inspiring new Nord Wave 2 tutorial series by Julian ”J3PO” Pollack! In this tutorial series J3PO shows how to design powerful layered patches, creative ways of morphing sounds and how to build complex rhythmic sound-scapes using the unique features of the Nord Wave 2. #nordwave2 #j3po #tutorials

Sequential Featured Artist Interview with JULIAN POLLACK

You can find the interview on Sequential's website here.

"Julian Pollack/J3PO is a pianist, keyboardist, and producer. Described by Timeout New York as a musician who “deftly balances virtuosity with tenderness,” Julian is an in-demand sideman as well a leader of his own projects. When he was 18 years old, having just moved to New York City from his native California hometown of Berkeley, he was featured on Piano Jazz, hosted by Marianne McPartland, the syndicated NPR radio program. Professionally, Julian has recorded and performed with the likes of Marcus Miller, Michael League (Snarky Puppy), Louis Cato (The Tonight Show), David Binney, The Lesson GK, Matt Chamberlain, Tim LeFebrve, Mike “Maz” Maher (Snarky Puppy), Grace Kelly, Ari Hoenig, Chris Bullock (Snarky Puppy), Nir Felder, Gil Goldstein (Esperanza Spalding), Chase Baird (Antonio Sanchez), Amanda Brown (Adele), Evan “EMAR” Marien, Grace Weber, and many others. He has played an integral role in the band The Lesson GK, which has held the famed “Lesson” Jam Session at Arelene’s Grocery on the Lower East Side of New York every Thursday night for many years. In 2019, Julian (as J3PO) will release his new album Small Plates, a collection of 12 tracks that range from simple lo-fi beats to complex jazztronica future house joints. Inspired by analog synths and sample-based music, the album fuses Julian’s love for today’s contemporary production styles with a nod to the jazz tradition and the spontaneity of live music and improvisation. Julian lives in Los Angeles, California.

We chatted with Julian on how he’s using Sequential’s instruments in his music."

---
You can find previous posts featuring Sequential's Spotlight series here.

INTRODUCING THE OBERHEIM TEO-5

video upload by Oberheim Official

"Step up to the legendary warmth and brilliance of classic Oberheim, reborn in the compact, powerful TEO-5. Dive into authentic analog tones, push boundaries with modern modulations and effects, and create like Thomas Elroy Oberheim always dreamed. TEO-5 is more than a synth, it's your sonic legacy, waiting to be written.

Music by Peter Dyer
All sounds from TEO-5

Learn more at
https://oberheim.com/products/teo-5/"

TEO-5 Synthesizer Unboxing & Demo Feat. Tom Oberheim

video upload by Doctor Mix

"Today, I unbox and demo the incredible Oberheim TEO-5 synthesizer. In the video I also discuss TEO-5 with the man himself Tom Oberheim who graciously gave me an intimate introduction to his latest and greatest synthesizer. 🚀"

J3PO reviews the new Oberheim TEO-5 synthesizer

video upload by J3PO

"Today, Oberheim Electronics has just announced the release of their new synthesizer: TEO-5 -- a five-voice analog synthesizer. In this video, Julian "J3PO" Pollack reviews the synth and performs numerous sound examples.

00:00 Introduction
01:04 Sound Examples & Discussion
26:38 Conclusion / Final Thoughts"

OBERHEIM TEO-5 Review // Filter & TZFM explored // Pros & cons vs Take 5 & Oberheim synths

video upload by loopop

"Get access to my exclusive In-Complete Book of Electronic Music Ideas, Tips and Tricks, on my Patreon: / loopop"

TIMELINE:
0:00 Intro
1:10 Overview
3:10 Build & keys
4:05 Low split mode
4:30 I/O
5:05 Oscillators
7:30 Sub & noise
7:55 Sync
8:20 Thru Zero FM
11:20 Misc osc
11:45 Filter
14:05 Overdrive
14:45 Effects
19:55 Unison
20:25 Chord mode
20:35 Envelopes
22:30 LFOs
24:10 Mod matrix
27:10 Vintage
28:05 Arp
29:25 Sequencer
30:50 SoundTower
31:55 Pros & cons
37:45 Preset sounds

Oberheim TEO-5 INHALT Synth Demo

video upload by INHALTVIDEO

"Following up from my work on the beta development and sound design on the Oberheim OB-X8, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the next Oberheim synth would be the TEO-5. Unpacking the beta unit revealed a beautiful and cleverly designed 5 voice analog synth that simply sounds amazing.

The size of the TEO-5 is absolutely perfect for world wide gigging and the sound is a sort of best of Oberheim with a modern twist. That modern twist doesn't exclusively come from the excellent FX processor on board, but also from the interesting modulation options and ranges. While you can push the synth into harmonic and saturated zones, it still, like all Oberheims remains one large sweet spot.

Don't be fooled by the smaller size and voice count, there is nothing small about the sound and capability of the TEO-5. Not to be missed.

Please note this recording is of a beta development unit running an early firmware. The sounds featured here are the patches I made for the shipping factory bank that comes with the synth straight from Oberheim.

Recorded at Infinite Power Studios, Los Angeles. All patches by Matia Simovich/INHALT. Video edited by Grover Greenberg."

SUPERBOOTH 2024: Oberheim - TEO-5

video upload by sonicstate

"At Superbooth 2024 we met up with David Gibbons from Oberheim who introduced us to the new TEO-5 synthesizer. Named after Tom Oberheim with an exclusive reveal of Tom's middle name, the TEO-5 has a SEM filter, two oscillators and a sub giving that classic Oberheim sound, but with lots of features to bring its capabilities right up to date.

Chris Calcutt then stepped up, and gave us a demo of the sound of this synth. TEO-5 gives us 19 mod slots with tons of destinations, both a mono and a poly LFO, two envelopes and a capable twin FX section. Uniquely there is a cross-mod section with thru-zero capabilities, which allows FM modulation that stays in tune up and down the keyboard.

With a similar form factor to the Take 5, the TEO-5 has a 3 and a half octave Fatar keyboard with aftertouch, and is designed to give the Oberheim sound in a more portable and affordable package

TEO-5 Available: July 2024. Price: 1,499 USD

https://oberheim.com/"

Oberheim TEO-5 Demo from Superbooth 2024

video upload by Starsky Carr

"A Quick Look any the new Oberheim TEO-5 - named after Tom Edison Oberheim - there was a leak a few weeks back but it's here in the flesh.. and nice it is too.

Its got the same form factor as there Sequential Take 5. The big addition is obviously the Oberheim filter, and a through zero FM - so it looks like it has the new SSI chip.

Anyway.. just a Quick Look.. enjoy:)"

And the press release with pics:

Introducing the New Oberheim TEO-5 Polyphonic Synthesizer

TEO-5: The Legendary Oberheim Sound Reborn in a Compact Powerhouse

San Francisco, CA – [May 16, 2024] – Oberheim, the venerable brand synonymous with the golden age of synthesizers, proudly announces the TEO-5 polysynth. This powerful instrument features the visionary craftsmanship of Thomas Elroy Oberheim (TEO), offering a perfect blend of classic analog warmth and modern versatility for today's musicians.

“I’m so proud to be able to make a synth like this... compact and affordable, the Oberheim sound for 2024,” says Tom Oberheim, the company’s founder. TEO-5 is designed to make the classic Oberheim tone palette widely accessible, encapsulating decades of analog engineering experience in a forward-thinking and innovative musical instrument.

The TEO-5 boasts a five-voice architecture with genuine analog VCOs and VCFs, capturing the distinctive warmth and depth that defined countless hit records. But TEO-5 isn't just a tribute to the past. Additions like through-zero FM, which adds a contemporary twist to its oscillator X-Mod feature, allow for the exploration of entirely new sonic textures. And the legendary Oberheim SEM filter returns, offering the versatility of morphing between low- pass, notch, and high-pass configurations, along with a switchable band-pass mode for extensive tonal shaping.
Beyond its core synthesis architecture, TEO-5 features a comprehensive modulation matrix, opening a world of possibilities for sculpting and transforming sounds. Digital effects processors provide classic chorus, delay, reverb, and more, alongside faithful recreations of the revered Oberheim Ring Mod and Phasor effects. A 64-step polyphonic sequencer and multimode arpeggiator further fuel creative exploration, while a premium Fatar keybed ensures a responsive and inspiring playing experience.

“There was a huge surge of interest when Oberheim returned in 2022 with the historically inspired OB-X8,” said David Gibbons, CEO of Oberheim. “But Tom and the design team were keen to show that the magic of Oberheim can be within reach for everyone, and can bring a distinctive modern flavor. TEO-5 is an exciting addition to the Oberheim legacy.”
Whether you're a seasoned professional seeking a powerful new sonic tool or a budding artist embarking on your analog adventure, TEO-5 is your gateway to unparalleled musical exploration.

CLICK FOR MORE »

THE OBERHEIM OB-X8 HAS ARRIVED

video upload by Oberheim Official

"For the first time in over 40 years, a legendary analog synth sound returns.

The OB-X8 combines the three different voice architectures of the classic OB-X, OB-Xa, and OB-8 synths into a single incredible instrument. The individual filter types and other unique characteristics of each model have been faithfully reproduced, along with an uncompromising 100% analog signal path, giving you the most authentic and satisfying OB experience possible.

Oberheim is BACK!"

Oberheim OB-X8 INHALT Sound Design Demo No Talking

video upload by INHALTVIDEO

https://inhalt.bigcartel.com

"My history with Oberheim runs deep. Probably the most important synthesizer for me was the Oberheim OB-8. I connected deeply with its melancholic and midnight music sounding tone which matched very well what I was doing with INHALT at the time. But never to be beguiled by softer emotions, the flick of the unison switch instantly took the OB-8 into an aggressive "body" music. It was the perfect writing tool due to the even tone across all octaves and the fact that its intrinsic musicality was unavoidable. Around the time I got the OB-8 I also got a vintage 2 Voice (thanks for restoring that one Chok) and both were heavily used on many records that I made. Those were my MVP's for many years.

When I received the call from my colleagues at Sequential that not only was a new Oberheim in the works, but that it was to be THE Oberheim, I couldn't wait for the beta testing and sound design to start. And when the prepro unit arrived, I knew that the newly reborn and official Oberheim company, in tandem with the team at Sequential, created something incredible. Something so comprehensive, deep, detailed, featured and yet immediate and simple, with no possibility of making a bad sound. Every sound I made sounded exactly as it should, and they ALL embodied that unmistakable Oberheim sound. That magic that is often imitated but never accomplished. Until now.

I'm not going to get into specs, those have been already covered everywhere, but I will say this: as someone that has used all of the "big" Oberheims, and that has made many records in commercial studios with the OB-8 and a vintage 2 Voice, I can definitively say that this Oberheim does all of those sounds and more. Its charisma changes from filter to filter and it seamlessly traverses from X, Xa to 8 with the Page 2 voice offset and vintage knob, but it ALWAYS sounds like the genuine Oberheim that it is. This incredible team, that I've had the pleasure of working with, has created something that might possibly be the ultimate polyphonic analog synthesizer. And I can't wait to use it on the many upcoming projects at Infinite Power Studios.

This is a recording I made of many of the patches I created for Oberheim and the shipping factory library that will come with the synth.

Please note, the OB-X8 in the video is a prototype unit and I recorded this with a beta firmware. As such, while the synth was largely done there were some changes both to the panel and to the OS that are in the final shipping version (obviously). The OB-X8 was recorded straight into Pro Tools HD and no post processing or fx were added. What you're hearing is the raw synth."

The Sound of the Oberheim OB-X8 - Julian "J3PO" Pollack [custom knobs on this one]

video upload by J3PO

"Oberheim has released a new synthesizer--the first in many decades--the OB-X8. It is a faithful recreation of all three of the classic OB-series synthesizers in one: the OB-X, the OB-Xa, and OB-8. It is an incredible synth.

In this video, you will hear a bunch of presets I created for the OB-X8. Some of my sounds will be included factory with the OB-X8 while most of these presets will appear in a presets pack I will release soon (check www.j3po.net for the release of my official sound bank). This particular unit is an early prototype with non-production knobs. The final production units will look slightly different.

It is important to note that the OB-X8, like the original OB's from back in the day, does NOT contain any onboard effects. In this video, I used some external reverbs and delays to give certain presets the ambience and resonance they deserve. Light compression and limiting was applied for the purpose of uploading to YouTube and balancing the sounds."

Update: Oberheim OB-X8 Preset Demos

video upload by james terris

"I'm always reluctant to post something in prototype form. When I had this unit it was sonically pretty close. Obvious at a glance are the knobs and 3D printed bender box levers. The synth itself sounds great and such a dream to play with a nice modern key bed."

And the press release:

Oberheim Returns to Operations and Releases Its First New Synth in 35 Years

San Francisco, CA – May 9, 2022 – In a momentous industry development, Oberheim Electronics, one of the most venerated names in synthesizer design, has announced its return to operation to meet the rising global demand for its instruments.

Today, the company is launching its first new product, the OB-X8: an eight-voice polyphonic analog synth that combines all of the key features of the legendary OB-X, OB-Xa, and OB-8 products from the 1980s – including all the original presets that gave them their signature sounds.

“I wanted to come back strong with a new design that brings together the sounds of the greatest instruments from across the OB range, together with the distinctive sound and styling of those synths,” said Tom Oberheim. “But we took it even further. You can now combine the various OB voice architectures in ways that produce unique and interesting new sounds and capabilities.”

Originally founded by Tom Oberheim in 1969, Oberheim Electronics created ground-breaking products that fueled the electronic music revolution throughout the 1970’s and early 1980’s. After ceasing operations in 1985, these instruments attained near-mythical status, with highly prized vintage models selling for many times their original price on the secondhand market.

Since that time, Tom Oberheim had created a handful of limited-production instruments and co-designs with various partners under other names. But in a recent significant development, he regained control of the Oberheim trademarks and IP, and now, in partnership with Focusrite PLC, has decided to once again introduce new products under the Oberheim brand name for first time in more than 35 years.

“I’ve always had a very optimistic outlook on our industry and the future in general. I felt that one day, when the time was right, Oberheim would return. A big part of this was the fact that so many musicians have contacted me over the years to ask how to get hold of an original Oberheim. So when I finally reacquired the Oberheim name, it was clear that the time was finally here,” said Oberheim.

The catalog of artists associated with the original products is long, and includes innovators like Prince, Van Halen, and Herbie Hancock. For many, it was much more than just an instrument. A handful of A-list artists such as Trent Reznor, creative force behind Nine Inch Nails, and Golden Globe, Academy Award, and Primetime Emmy-winning composer got pre-release previews. “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,” remarked Trent. I will be making room in my studio for one and I’m excited more people will be able to experience this classic instrument.”

Creating a new company out of thin air was no small feat. “I’m excited to work with my old friend and audio industry innovator Marcus Ryle, along with some other members of the original Oberheim team again,” said Tom. “And thanks to an exclusive partnership with Focusrite group company Sequential LLC, we have the ability to design, manufacture, distribute, and support new instruments on a global scale.”

For Marcus Ryle, one of the inventors behind the ADAT, the QuadraSynth, and Line 6 guitar amps and effects, this represents closure of sorts: “Synths were my first love and the reason I entered this industry. Tom hired me when I was 19, and I feel lucky to have been a part of the Oberheim design team during its glory days. Now, a whole new chapter in the story of analog synthesizer-based music is about to get written.” Dave Smith, founder of Sequential and himself a legendary figure in synth history, also collaborated with Marcus (an Oberheim team member from the 1980s) and Tom to create the new product. “We’ve already developed other interesting design ideas with Tom for follow-up products that will allow us to take Oberheim into the future as a synth brand,” commented Smith. “It’s a very exciting time to be a musician.”

The OB-X8 eight-voice analog synthesizer will be available at the end of June with a US MAP of $4,995.

For more details visit www.oberheim.com.

About Oberheim
Oberheim is the 21st century return of the legendary company that helped fuel the electronic music revolution. Now, just as then, Oberheim is guided by the vision of engineer and inventor, Tom Oberheim. Tom’s genius for innovation introduced the world to the first commercially available poly synth and other groundbreaking electronic instruments that literally changed the sound of music. Today, Oberheim reawakens this legacy by bringing the famed Oberheim sound to a new generation of instruments and artists. The company’s passion remains unchanged by time or technology — to once again provide the world with the finest-sounding analog synthesizers ever made. Oberheim brings its products to market with the help of the Focusrite organization and renowned synth maker, Sequential."

OBERHEIM OB-X8 SPECIFICATIONS

• 8-voice, pure-analog polyphony with saw, square/pulse, triangle, and noise
• Two discrete SEM/OB-X-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
• The 61-key FATAR velocity- and touch-sensitive keyboard allows unparalleled expression and responsiveness
• 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, fanless, heatsink-free power supply
• Real walnut end cheeks
• High-resolution OLED display enables patch management and easy access to advanced features
• Classic Oberheim Pitch and Mod levers allow expressive note bending, vibrato, and access to arpeggiator functions

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 sensitivity adds expressiveness to volume and filter 
• Channel Aftertouch adds real-time performance-based modulation
• Enhanced unison allows variable voice stacking from 1-8 voices
• Variable triangle wave cross-modulation
• Over 600 user-programmable preset locations
• Programmable per-program pan allows wider stereo presence
• Variable oscillator and noise levels

INS & OUTS
• Stereo and Mono outputs
• Volume, Sustain, and Filter inputs
• Arpeggiator clock input
• MIDI In, Out, Thru
• USB
• Dimensions:
• Weight: 32.5 lbs
• Dimensions: 40.5” L x 16.67” W x 5.87” H

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The Sound of the Nord Wave 2 feat. J3PO - #1 Analog

NordKeyboards

"This brand new series shows the unique range of sounds and capabilities of the Nord Wave 2. With a total of 5 episodes, LA-based keyboardist Julian "J3PO" Pollack demonstrates the different sound categories as well as complex layers and rhythmic patches. The first episode is focused on the Analog waveforms featured in the Nord Wave 2. #nordwave2 #j3po #analog #iseenord"