Design Philosophy of Every Oberheim Synthesizer with Legend Marcus Ryle

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

"Marcus Ryle is one of the great heroes of synthesizer history. At Oberheim in the early ’80s, he worked side-by-side designing with Tom Oberheim on legendary instruments like the DSX Digital Sequencer, the OB-Xa and OB-8, the DMX drum machine, and the groundbreaking Xpander and Matrix-12 synthesizers. These innovations revolutionized electronic music and still define the sound of a generation.

In this video, Marcus shares the inside story of Oberheim’s design culture—why certain features appeared on some synths and not others—and how those choices shaped the future of music.

Beyond Oberheim, Marcus co-founded Alesis, where he helped create the groundbreaking ADAT digital recorder, Quadraverb and HR16 drum machine... and later Line 6, where he pioneered digital modeling amps and effects, including the legendary POD. He also played a pivotal role in helping Tom Oberheim reclaim the Oberheim name, and he continues to be actively involved in the design of today’s newest Oberheim instruments—ensuring the spirit of innovation carries forward.

Few designers have influenced so many eras of music technology—Oberheim, Alesis, Line 6, Sequential, Focusrite and now the reborn Sequential/Oberheim. Marcus Ryle’s story is a masterclass in how his innovation changed music forever."

https://anthonymarinellimusic.com/pages/about

This Little Box Changed Synths Forever | Tom Oberheim’s SEM Story

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

See the full interview here.

"How did the legendary Oberheim SEM (Synthesizer Expander Module) come to life? In this video, Tom Oberheim himself tells the story of how necessity became the mother of invention.
After creating the world’s first digital sequencer, Tom needed a dedicated synthesizer voice to play back the note information generated by the sequencer. His solution was the SEM — a compact, self-contained synth voice that could be sequenced while leaving a musician’s main synthesizer free to perform alongside it. This groundbreaking idea gave players entirely new creative possibilities and laid the foundation for some of the most influential instruments in music history. Join me, along with Rob Rosen (Rosen Sound) and Marcus Ryle (Alesis, Line 6), as we hear directly from Tom about the innovation that started it all.
👉 Discover how the SEM was born and why it changed the future of synthesis."

https://oberheim.com/

https://anthonymarinellimusic.com

Tom Oberheim: The Genius Behind the Greatest Sounding Synthesizers

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

"Today, we’re at the home of Tom Oberheim — one of the original pioneers who shaped synthesizers and music history. Tom's legacy includes some of the most groundbreaking innovations: (a stand alone ring modulator, the first commercially available phase shifter pedal (my personal favorite), an early digital sequencer, the Oberheim DS-2, and the SEM the first commercially available polyphonic synthesizer made in 2, 4 and 8 voice models, followed by favorites such as the OB-X, OB-Xa, OB-8, Xpander, Matrix 12, DMX drum machine and more... of course, most importantly he gave us the unmistakable "Oberheim sound" on his entire collection of iconic synthesizers that have inspired compositions and performances on countless records by multiple generations of artists.

Joining me for this special interview is my friend Rob Rosen from Rosen Sound—talented musician and renowned expert in synth restoration and preservation, and someone who's worked closely for a while with Tom to keep Oberheim instruments and ALL vintage synthesizers alive for future generations of musicians.
We’ll also be joined by Marcus Ryle, who's done so much. Marcus began his career working closely with Tom, at Oberheim, was a session musician, designed dozens of affordable and accessible products for Alesis - including the ADAT multitrack recording, Quadraverb digital reverb, and HR-1 drum machine, and later co-founded Line 6 (creating innovative guitar effects and revolutionizing digital modeling technology). His insight into Tom’s innovations—and his own contributions in music history —makes this a rare, deeply meaningful conversation.
Let’s get into it."

https://oberheim.com/

https://anthonymarinellimusic.com

TEO5 Oveview and First Impressions

video upload by Oakland Ghosts

"In this video I'll go over why I think the Oberheim TEO 5 is a most excellent choice if you're in the market for an Analog Poly Synth, and give you a general overview and my First Impressions. Chapters below!

Chapters
00:00 Intro
1:24 Why TEO 5?
4:37 The 5 stands for Voices
06:20 Is it Analog or Digital? Yes.
07:50 Oscillators
11:00 Oscillator SYNC
11:52 Setting up a Quick Mod
13:15 X MOD
14:24 SEM State Variable Filter
16:10 Bandpass Filter
17:05 Pink And White Noise
18:12 Envelopes
20:09 Fatar Keybed
22:00 LFO 1 (MONO)
24:05 LFO 2 (POLY)
25:11 Unison
26:25 Chord Mode
26:55 Portamento
27:50 Overdrive Knob
28:09 Vintage Knob
29:35 Arpeggiator
31:13 Sequencer
33:48 Effects
40:45 Factory Presets
41:27 Mod Matrix
44:48 Final Thoughts"

Oberheim DSX 16-Voice Digital Sequencer SN A44601

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this Reverb listing

Additional SYNTH CITY Listings

"The DSX can interface directly with other Oberheim synths as well, including the OB-Xa, OB-SX, and OB-X.

The DSX can synchronize to the DMX, or it can control the OB-synths. In addition to controlling these synths, the DSX features 8 CV and Gate outputs to control up to 8 more other analog synthesizers. Super handy device for Oberheim owners!"

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Sequential Introduces the Take 5 Desktop Module

video upload by Sequential

"Take Your Music to the Next Level

The Sequential Take 5 desktop module brings the legendary Prophet-5 sound to your mix, featuring the analog oscillators and filter that transformed electronic music. Compact and powerful, it fits seamlessly into any studio and is easy to transport for live performances. Modern effects and a powerful modulation matrix deliver sounds to transport you.

Soundtrack exclusively by Take 5. Yes, even the drums! Composed by Peter Dyer.

For more information on Take 5 visit Sequential at: https://sequential.com/hybrid-analog/..."

Sequential Take 5 Module Demo (no talking) - Presets for Ambient, Melodic Techno and Electronica

video upload by Limbic Bits

0:00 Pads
13:09 Bass
16:25 Leads and Arpeggios
20:57 Misc, SFX and Percussion

Sequential Take 5 Module Demo (no talking)

video upload by Bonedo Synthesizers

Hurray... Take 5 and TEO 5 Desktop Units

video upload by Starsky Carr

TEO 5 announced here

"The Take 5 and Teo-5 from Sequential and Oberheim make fantastic desktop units. They feel like they were made for this form factor - no compromises, simply great sounding synths in a high quality enclosure. The keyboard versions may have felt lacking in keys (even though they have a great keybed) - just a bit too short for some. I found it was quite handy having one that could fit on my rack! But with these the only decision you have to make is which one is best for you.

Luckily I'm here to confuse you further (they both sound great)! The decision will be whether you prefer the Oberheim or Sequential style of VCO programming, the filters, and the X-Mod/FM. And these just so happen to be the bits I look at in this :)"

0:00 Whoo Hoo!!
2:36 The Hardware
4:37 Quick Overview - What Are They?
6:58 Oscillators
10:20 Sync
12:31 Filters
21:08 X-Mod/FM



Press release follows:

Take Your Music to the Next Level with the Sequential Take 5 Desktop Module

San Francisco, CA – [July 1, 2025] – Sequential, a leading innovator in synthesizer technology, today announced the release of the Take 5 Desktop Module, bringing their legendary analog sound to a more compact and accessible form-factor.

Building on the success of the Take 5 keyboard, the desktop module offers the same powerful analog oscillators and filters that capture the iconic warmth and depth of the Prophet-5, enhanced with modern modulation and digital effects. The module delivers this sought-after sound in a space-saving design, perfect for studio setups and live performances where portability and efficiency are paramount.

"Ever since we launched the Take 5 keyboard, we’ve gotten repeated requests for a desktop module version, " says CEO David Gibbons. "And more recently, it seems that modules have really shot up in popularity. So, we're very excited to offer the Take 5 sound in a format that everyone seems to want."

The Take 5 Desktop Module provides the same hands-on, knob-based experience as its keyboard counterpart, allowing for intuitive sound design and real-time parameter adjustments. Users can delve deep into sound creation with controls that are simple and direct, making it fast and easy to polish your sound.

This synth fits perfectly in smaller studio or bedroom setups, and is easy to transport for live gigs, positioning The Take 5 desktop module to bring its signature Sequential sound to a wider audience than ever before. It's an instrument designed to make life easier and streamline the journey to making music and having fun.

The Take 5 desktop module is available now, with a US MAP price of $1,399.

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Oberheim Synthesizer Brochure

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this eBay listing

"Oberheim Synthesizer Brochure (Brochure ONLY). 1977 vintage original. 16 small fold out pages. Covers legendary and Iconic Oberheim analog synthesizers. The mighty Oberheim Eight Voice, Oberheim Four Voice, Oberheim Two Voice, Oberheim SEM module, Oberheim Programmer, Oberheim Digital Sequencer, Oberheim Minisequencer. Brochure is Used. Very Good condition, vintage original, Has punch holes, no writing, no highlights, no tears, no stamp. No returns, no refunds. Please Ask all questions first. Time keeps on slipping into the future."

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John Bowen Solaris SN 00113

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this Reverb listing

"It's a monster! ..yes, it's digital.. but, when you hear a 96kHz synth.. you quickly realize.. if there IS to be a digital synth.. then 96k is where it should be.. at that frame rate.. it's not 'steppy' and a lot smoother than the 'others', IMO. I'm the only owner of this 'lonely heart'. Bought it new, back when Awave was in a tiny arcade next to South Yarra station. It was the only synth that's ever 'tricked' me.. I thought it was analog 'something'. It just sounded too 'pure'.. so, I had to have it.. unfortunately, I haven't used it as much as it deserves.

This Solaris has resided in my smoke free studio since it was purchased new. Never toured, original PSU and manual (not that the manual is much use to anyone anymore.. that is.. with the advent of the newly developed V2 OS). For those that don't know, John was instrumental working alongside the late great Dr Robert Moog, in fact, he was there, in the early 70s, working alongside Dr Bob on the original MiniMoog.. fast forward a few years.. and there he was working alongside the late great Dave Smith @ Sequential Circuits. John worked on the Prophet 5, the VS and the Sequential Sampler, the Prophet 2000.

This was shortly before Yamaha acquired Sequential and retrenched the staff, yep.. that old chestnut.. and John went on to work at Korg where he was behind the WaveStation (basically he took his knowledge of the Korg VS and threw it into the WaveStation, as some might already be aware of). So, with all that history under his belt.. when it was time for John, whom I refer to as 'synth god', John started development on the Solaris.The Solaris is the culmination of all his passed work and synth experience, despite the panel often likened to the Oberheim Matrix 12, John had implemented Filters, Wave shapes, Step Sequencers, and not to forget 'Wave Sequencing' that've appeared in all his passed projects on those aforementioned classic synths, that he worked closely on with 'other' synth gods such as Dave Smith and Dr Bob Moog.

So, you could say.. the Solaris is what a 21st century synth-classic 'ought' to be. And, ultimately, that's why I wanted it, but.. I'm afraid, as good as it is.. it's more synth than I've ever needed...x10! It would be much more suited towards professional sound designers than someone who messes around with Samplers more often that not. Therefore, I'll let it go to another enthusiast.. other esteemed 'registered' owners in the Solaris forum are Hans Zimmer, Harry Gregson-Williams, JJ Abrams, Jean-Michel Jarre, Matt Johnson, Ty Unwin to name a few.

In a nutshell, if had a paragraph to sum it up.. it's like a Matrix-12 integrated with a WaveStation and then there's CEM, SSM, Moog and Prophet 5 'mimicked' filters and oscillator shapes... basically, loads of features and 'flavors' from every 'beast synth' before it.

Main features:
10 Voice Polyphony
4 Oscillators
4 Filters
6 Envelope Generators
4 LFO's (+1 for Vibrato)
16 Step Sequencer
Arpeggiator
8 analog outputs (4 stereo)
Digital (ADAT) Output
MIDI over DIN & USB
15 kg / 33 Lbs
Comes with the original Australian 240v external PSU"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Oberheim DSX Digital Polyphonic Sequencer SN A32905

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this Reverb listing

CLICK FOR MORE »

NRSynth Model 15, Retro One & Solo | SynthFest 2025

video upload by SynthFest France

"NRSynth poursuit sa quête du son analogique de l'âge d'or des Moog modulaires, ARP et autres trésors du passé, et présente sa nouveauté 2025: le Solo, recréation du mythique module SEM d'Oberheim."

Googlish:

"NRSynth continues its quest for the analog sound of the golden age of modular Moogs, ARPs and other treasures of the past, and presents its new 2025 product: the Solo, a recreation of the legendary Oberheim SEM module."

Also see SYNTHFEST 2025: "Spherical" Live and JC digital sequencer DMS: le fils spirituel du Digisequencer (avec Michel Geiss et NR Synth).

JC digital sequencer DMS: le fils spirituel du Digisequencer (avec Michel Geiss et NR Synth)

video upload by SynthFest France

"Jean-Claude Dubois n''est pas un inconnu: il est le concepteur du célèbre Digisequencer utilisé sur l'album Chronologie de JMJ.

Il nous présente les fonctionnalités du DMS (pour Digital MIDI Sequencer), évolution survitaminée du Digisequencer. Avec l'intervention de Michel Geiss pour la partie historique et NR Synth qui met à disposition son fabuleux Solo, recréation du SEM d'Oberheim.

/ jean-claude-dubois-860a9ab6
https://nrsynth.fr/solo.html"

"Jean-Claude Dubois is no stranger: he is the designer of the famous Digisequencer used on JMJ's Chronologie album.

He introduces us to the features of the DMS (Digital MIDI Sequencer), a supercharged evolution of the Digisequencer. Michel Geiss provides the historical background, and NR Synth provides its fabulous Solo, a recreation of the Oberheim SEM.

/ jean-claude-dubois-860a9ab6
https://nrsynth.fr/solo.html"

Dynacord Percuter - 8 tracks Digital Drum Computer + 8 cartridges & Dynacord P20 + 5 cartridges

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

Percuter via this Reverb listing

P20 via this Reverb listing [demo here]

Pics of the inside below.

You can find a few demos of a Percuter in previous posts here.

"The Dynacord Percuter is a simple drum module that lets you trigger 8 sounds with pads or sequencer. Very basic features, only a pan and sensitivity control for each channel, as well as independant outputs, and a master stereo output and headphones outputs. There is a cool global pitch control though.

And of course the real nice feature is the ability to change cartridges and thus change sounds as you like. They were many cartridges made and their sound quality is extremely good, in the league of the Linn Drum, Oberheim DMX and such, if not better.

Unit was cleaned and checked and It's fully working and response well to trigger pulses.
8 cartridges are included and they build a full drum kit (a ride or crash could be nice though)

- 111001 Electrified Bass 2
- 111020 Natural Snare 8"
- 111002 Electrified Snare 2
- 111004 Electrified Tom 1
- 111005 Electrified Tom 2
- 111006 Electrified Tom 3
- 111047 Accent Hi Hats Cymbal
- 111048 Closing Hi Hats Cymbal

Please note that P20 and Percuter sound roms are the same (nature snare for instance) they are totally different sounds. The Percuter sounds are 8 bits and the P20 are 16 bits I think. Samples are brighter and longer."

CLICK FOR MORE »

NRSynth's SEM Module - The "Solo": An "Extended" Version of the SEM

video uploads by Séraphin PALMERI

Playlist:

1. "Pink Floyd On The Run" Module SEM NRSynth

"On The Run" de Pink Floyd avec un clone amélioré du module SEM d'Oberheim, fabriqué par NRSynth, une lutherie éléctronique made in France #pinkfloyd #ontherun #oberheim #sem #NrSynth

2. Tangerine Dream Intro "Ricochet Part 1"

Le module SEM de NRSynth est vraiment parfait pour reproduire l’intro de « Ricochet Part 1 » de Tangerine Dream. https://nrsynth.fr

3. Module SEM NrSynth Démo 1

00:00 Midnight Express
00:57 Star Cycle
01:41 Dervish D.
02:06 Stranger Things
02:44 Il était une fois le Prophet

4. Module SEM NRSynth Démo 2

00:00 Basse 1
00:13 Basse 2
00:26 Fun For Me
00:38 ABACAB
00:54 Welcome To The Machine
01:24 Caverne
02:33 Tange FX
02:49 Chinox
03:04 Percox

5. Tangerine Dream « Monolight (Part 2) » With the Sequential Prophet 6 & Korg Kronos



Details via NRSynth (Google translated)

Oberheim Legacy: In 1974, Tom Oberheim imagined a small synth as an accessory to his DS-2A digital sequencer. But it was Dennis P Collins, a gifted ARP engineer, who designed the multimode filter of the Synth Expander Module (SEM). This unique filter is a 12 db filter that cannot deny its lineage with the ARP 1047 (ARP 2500) and ARP 2023 (white Odyssey MK1) filters, 12 db filters also designed by Dennis P Collins. With two very fat VCOs and a devastating sync (also close to the Odyssey VCOs), the small SEM offers a powerful sound, very present in the mix and very different from Moog and other synths with 24 db filters. So despite its simplicity and a filter that does not enter self-oscillation, we can get a lot of sounds out of it. Accessible and easy to use, the SEM is a success. In 1975, Tom paired first two, then four, into a huge keyboard case, creating the first "true" polyphonic instrument in history, the "Four Voices." In 1976, the SEM was even expanded to eight. Nicknamed the "White Elephant," its sound was as enormous as the instrument itself! But in 1978, the brilliant Prophet-5 made it obsolete, and Tom designed the OB-X, whose channel cards were also clones of the SEM. Subsequently, the OB-XA and OB-8 used Curtis chipsets and no longer had quite the same sound. In 2010, Oberheim reissued the SEM identically, but with all surface-mount components. In 2011, the SEM PRO added just a MIDI interface.

NRsynth "Solo": This is an "extended" version of the SEM, handcrafted with traditional through-hole components. Only the envelopes have been modified for a punchier result; the rest is identical to the original synth. Additionally, the Solo features a sub-oscillator, a glide, white noise, and many more modulation options than the SEM. MIDI velocity is also supported. Finally, the white metal case gives way to a luxurious, classically crafted cabinet with waxed oak sides and black tolex, similar to a Marshall amp.

A patchbook of all Séraphin Palmeri's sounds is included with the device.

Specifications:

VCO: Two discrete VCOs with hard sync, saw, pulse + PW (same as SEM)
Sub-oscillator: Pulse wave – 1 octave below VCO1.
Noise: 100% analog white noise
Multimode 12 dB filter: Same as SEM with LPF, HPF, notch, and bandpass mode. VCA: Analog (same as SEM)
LFO: Analog, triangle wave (same as SEM)
Envelopes: Analog (same as Pro-1) with deactivatable "Release".
Digital LFO: 8 waveforms + tilt, 3 frequency ranges, sync.
Sample and Hold: Analog, sync.
Glide: Analog portamento circuit at the input.
Patchbay: 15 I/O points on 3.5mm jacks (Eurorack compatible).
Rear Connections: Audio I/O and sync on 6.35mm jacks. Reset button.
Dimensions: 30x24x15 cm

Price: €1,390

OBERHEIM TEO-5 | ANALOG poly-SYNTH | MUSIC DEMO - NO TALKING 🎹🔥

video upload by FutureMusic.es

"The compact OBERHEIM TEO-5 synthesizer resurrects the legendary analog-polyphonic sound of California...

#oberheim #teo5 #synthesizer

The OBERHEIM TEO-5 is a huge analog polyphonic synthesizer in the vein of the golden age of American synthesizers. We're talking about the legendary original designer, and the same architecture and circuitry that sculpted thick, memorable lines of American analog polysynth in the 70s and 80s.

But a lot happened along the way for us to see the OBERHEIM TEO-5 in its full glory today. Today, OBERHEIM is a revered brand that has regained its status as a rightful contemporary of that golden age of synthesizers.

Signature acronyms, premium electronics, and a huge sound

This sweeping instrument features the exclusive and visionary craftsmanship of Thomas Elroy Oberheim – TEO, hence the name of the device.

And one of the interesting strengths of the OBERHEIM TEO-5 is that it "perfectly combines classic analog warmth with the modern versatility that today's musicians demand", according to the brand's statements.

"I'm very proud to be able to create a synthesizer like this... Compact and affordable, the Oberheim sound for 2024", says Tom Oberheim, founder of the company that bears his name, as well as a legendary designer

In its mission to make Oberheim's classic tone palette "widely accessible", TEO-5 encapsulates decades of analog engineering experience on a musical instrument that is "as innovative as it is visionary."

The five voices of pure analog electronics in the OBERHEIM TEO-5

CLICK FOR MORE »

Oberheim DSX 16-Voice Digital Sequencer

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this listing

Additional Three Wave Music Listings

"Oberheim DSX sequencer in excellent condition. Includes original owners manual and power cable. Professionally serviced in house. Unit tested and confirmed to function.

The Oberheim DSX is a pre-MIDI digital polyphonic sequencer. It operates using a proprietary parallel bus and was designed for use with the OB-X, OB-SX, OB-Xa and OB-8. Connection was via a heavy 1:1 cable, which plugged from the host DSX to the target synthesizer using a rear DB-37 connector. The DSX is capable of driving up to 16 voices concurrently. Sequences are stored in internal memory after power-off using static RAM which remains powered up from an internal NiCad battery.

The combination of Oberheim DSX, Oberheim DMX and either OB-8 or OB-Xa were marketed as the 'Oberheim System'."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Oberheim SEM Patch Panel SN 0994 w/ Original Box

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this listing

"This is a collectors grade example of one of the most iconic synthesizers ever made. Absolutely mint condition and as good as it'll get for such a historic little piece with a huge sound. This was Tom's first go at making a come back and not even owning the rights to his own name yet. This was a very small production and he made sure it was done right. No digital nonsense to get in the way or to go wrong. This will last a few lifetimes like the original SEM's did. This was kept in its original box and essentially unplayed for most of its life so far. The knobs feel great and all the jacks are mint condition. Perfect complement to any modular set up or any poly synth with CV outs that need a strong mono analog complement (most of them dont do mono as well as this can). One of the best mono synths period and factory fresh. Pairs really nice with a Arturia key step or cv sequencer as well."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Oberheim OB-12 virtual analog poly synth

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this listing

"quite underated virtual analog 12 voice polysynth from the early 2000s.
Very comprehensive features and wide range of sonic possibilities (12 voices, 2 oscillators, 2 lfos, 3 enveloppes, 4 parts multitimbral, preset morphing, arpeggiator, sequencer, multifx engine (overdrive, chorus, delay, reverbe), digital outputs etc

Unit was serviced and is in fully working condition. Cosmetic is very good with only minor scuff here and there."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Philips MC100

video upload by Blossom Bisquits

http://matrixsynth.com/blog/media/oberheim/matrix6patches/Matrix-6%20-%20matrix%20patched.mid"The Philips/Brother PCM 100 Composer Digital Sequencer, released in 1986, was a pioneering mini-workstation that had a brief market presence. It featured a 2-OP FM synthesizer, producing sounds reminiscent of the Yamaha Porta series home/toy keyboards.

Equipped with a 2-octave touch keyboard, the PCM 100 boasted a robust real-time/step sequencer with 8K RAM for recording. Its large LCD screen facilitated composing and note entry, allowing playback of any of the 100 onboard FM sounds.

Although the synthesizer itself was monophonic, it offered three additional parts for accompaniment, including bass lines, chords, and 15 rhythmic patterns. Uniquely, the PCM 100 included a built-in cassette recorder for storing and loading composed sequences.

Architectue

- **Type:** Digital
- **Synthesis:** Frequency Modulation (FM)
- **Oscillators:** 2
- **Waveforms:** Sine
- **ROM Size:** 32 kb
- **Modulation:** Envelope, Oscillator, Sequencer
- **Notes:** 2-OP FM Synthesizer

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Viscount Oberheim OB-12 49-Key Synthesizer SN 2083801

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this listing

"Most certainly a modern classic synth, this OB-12 is in amazing condition, considering it is 22 years old. Made in Italy by Viscount (who also made Vox organs in the 1960s)/Galanti family business, the synth was a "joint venture", legally using the Oberheim brand for marketing. The initial launch was a disaster, and the UK price tumbled from circa £2000 down to £499 through the 5-years of manufacture (2000-2005). Was it synth snobbery? (ah, I aint buying no Italian Oberheim...not a real one, dude.....).Was it bad sounding? Did it look naff? The years passed, then a few stalwart synth enthusiasts realised that the OB-12 was actually years ahead of its time. It actually IS reliable (apart from the display screen, but replacements are available). It actually can sound HUGE, and has many features that have to be highlighted. KKGB have also bothered to print off the 160-page manual; which IS very good and informative SPECS:- 256 fully programmable memory slots (128A & 128B), 12-voice poly with velocity and pressure (49 keys) ~ 4-part multi-timbral and key zoning ~ arpeggiator ~ sequencer ~ FM ~ morphing function ~ glide ~ white noise ~ ring modulation ~ 24Db filter (put the twin 12Dbs in series<>same thing) ~ 4 discreet FX (delay/reverb/chorus/distortion) ~ twin wheels (pitch/mod) ~ ribbon controller ~ global-auto voltage select (90V > 260Vac) with standard IEC mains cord (no naff external PSus) ~two banks of digital oscillators with great selection of waveforms ~ excellent "live" display which portrays editing etc ~ only 12Kgs ~ dims 92 x 39 x 12 cms...serial number 2083801. Condition of this actual instrument is 95% perfect, with only eeny dinks/scratches; the keys are nigh perfect and trigger every time. The pressure/aftertouch offers remarkable control of many features; its astonishing......"

CLICK FOR MORE »

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.

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