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:
0:00 Intro (Notch Dream patch with delay) 3:27 Hell's Swells patch (with short plate reverb) 5:35 OB-XH patch (with delay and reverb) 6:50 OB-XH lower layer (dry) 7:11 OB-HX upper layer (dry) 7:31 Hell's Swells lower layer (dry) 7:53 Hell's Swells upper layer (dry) 8:16 Notch Dream lower layer (dry) 9:01 Notch Dream upper layer (dry) 9:51 LFooy patch (with delay) 11:01 Square Weirdo patch (with delay) 11:55 Crazy AF patch (with delay) 12:44 Dirtano patch (with reverb) 13:47 Notch Dream patch variation with MIDI Mod (with delay) 15:16 OB-6 filter mode patch variation with MIDI Mod (with built-in chorus and delay) 18:06 Outro with OB-X8 and OB-6 (Notch Dream patch and OB-6 filter mode patch with delay)
If you have an OB-X8 and you're not using the Page 2 features, you're missing out on half the synth. Nobody seems to talk about these features or explore them. The OB-X8 is indeed a very versatile synth capable of many different timbres, not just the classic sounds from the original OB series. There are so many things you can do with modulation envelopes, LFO phase inversion, different SEM filter modes, and layering, just to name a few things. The OB-6 is limited by comparison. I find it pretty frustrating to use sometimes after making sounds on the OB-X8. It does have other tricks up its sleeve of course, and it sounds beautiful. It's definitely its own brand of OB with its own flavor. Similarly, the addition of 3 SEM filter modes and ability to mix and match OB-8, OB-Xa, and OB-X components and features make the OB-X8 its own beast, and I feel like a lot of people don't really appreciate that. It is so much more than a reissue.
Rant aside, my main motivation for this was to see how close I could get to emulating an OB-6 filter mode sweep. I think I got pretty good results here regardless if the sound is close or not, but I'll let you be the judge. Let me know what you think. There's no way to match perfectly because the filters sound different, and I believe a lot of it has to do with the differences in the oscillators, and maybe gain staging. The OB-X8 filters are more aggressive, with more prominent resonance. Crank the resonance on the OB-6 with the filter in the notch position. It barely does anything. Do the same on the OB-X8 and you'll hear those "sing-song harmonics" as you sweep the filter. And although they're not as loud as they are in the other filter modes, they are still very noticeable. There is also something magical about the high pass filter in the OB-6. Again it might be due to the oscillators. I find the high pass on the OB-6 very comforting, not that the one in the OB-X8 is bad in any way at all. It's just different. I also find the notch filter in the OB-X8 to be more "chewy". This is probably the result of it being more aggressive. In a battle of the filters, I'd choose the OB-X8 for lowpass and notch, and the OB-6 for bandpass and highpass. Anyway, I'm sorta ranting again.
Ultimately, I hope you enjoy these sounds and if you have an OB-X8, I strongly encourage you to explore all of the Page 2 features. I'm sure you've noticed that I have the pinstripe overlay for my X8. While I do prefer the pinstripe look, I really got it because it has the Page 2 function labels on it, and this is huge for me. Page 2 doesn't have to be menu-diving, it can simply be shift functions, which tons of synths have and they're easy to use. Having the labels and changing Page 2 parameters on the panel is a game changer for me. I don't have great eyes, so the small screen can get tiresome after awhile. If you don't want to splurge for the overlay (it's pretty expensive), maybe there's another option for adding labels to your synth. For me it's totally worth it.
Lastly, I think I may have inadvertently ripped someone off in the outro. It sounds like it could be from a movie, but I can't place it.
"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
"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]
"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."
"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.
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
The above playlist features a handful of Oberheim OB-X8 videos by Adam Borseti. Note the first few videos feature the custom OB-Xa style overlay (link below), followed by the stock OB-X style panel.
Playlist:
1. First Day of Summer! (Oberheim OB-X8)
Here's a fun little spur-of-the-moment jam over a song I've been working on. This is the direction I want the song to go in, but I'm probably going to re-record some of it. We'll see. You like the 80s style OB-Xa/OB-8 blue pin stripes for the OB-X8? I do to! They're made of semi-rigid plastic and can be applied or removed in less than 2 minutes with no adhesive. It's really cool to be able to switch between the late 70s OB-X look and the super-1980s OB-Xa and OB-8 look.
Using the SEM filters in lowpass for the bottom layer and a delicious Notch filter on the upper layer pad.
4. OB-X8 - Left Hand Bass Exercises
Laying down bass lines thick and hard with lefty, following the lead of whatever chord righty is holding down. This was all improvised so forgive any chord meandering and weird transitions, mistakes and the like. Is what it is.
5. "Approaching Chaos" - Oberheim OB-X8
All sounds made with the Oberheim OB-X8 run through a Zoom MS-70CDR, with the drums from my Roland TR-626. Enjoy
Consider this some filler while I'm working on my next actual song. I'm almost done!
7. "Reflections" - Oberheim OB-X8
A new original tune of mine, the first in a good long while! Less time and more stress have resulted in less creativity haha, but I'm trying over here. :)
Adam Berzowski explores the sounds of the Oberheim OB-X8 at the Kraft Music studio
Contact Adam directly at 414-858-4008 or aberzowski@kraftmusic.com if you have any questions or would like to place an order on your very own OB-X8
The Oberheim OB-X8 marks the return of a legendary analog synth sound. With a 100% analog audio path that cuts through a mix like no other synth, the OB-X8 sounds like a classic Oberheim because it is a classic Oberheim. The OB-X8 combines the voice architectures of the OB-X, OB-Xa, and OB-8 into a single instrument, faithfully reproducing the individual filter types and other unique characteristics of each model. Using the OB-X8's clear and easy-to-grasp set of controls, you can even mix elements of different models to create sounds never possible with the originals.
OB-X8 is available with a 61-key Fatar velocity- and touch-sensitive keyboard with channel aftertouch, allowing unparalleled expression and responsiveness, as well as a desktop module version with a footprint that's compact enough for studios of any size and convenient enough to take out on the road.
Get more for your money with an exclusive Oberheim OB-X8 polyphonic analog synthesizer bundle from Kraft Music. These package deals include the accessories you'll need to get the most out of your new analog poly synth, all for one low price. If you have any questions, please contact us. Our knowledgeable Sales Advisors will be happy to assist in choosing the bundle that's right for you!"
Playlist:
Flash Gordon Soundtrack clips performed on the Oberheim OB-X8
I've always loved the movie Flash Gordon from good old 1980. Since Queen performed all the synth parts for that soundtrack on the Oberheim OB-X, I thought that it would be fitting to do my own version of some of the tracks with my new Oberheim OB-X8. I didn't try to recreate every piece spot on, but definitely wanted the Oberheim OB-X spirit in there. I hope that you enjoy my effort. :)
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Van Halen 1984 performed on the Oberheim OB X8
1984 was one of my favorite synth pieces from the 1980's, so I just had to recreate it on my new Oberheim OB-X8. I hope that you enjoy it.
Oberheim OB-X8 demo - "The Quasar's Sorrow" - also featuring the OTO BAM Reverb Processor
I originally wrote this track in 2012 for my TRANSCENDENCE album. Now 10 years later, the OB-X8 was the perfect synth the recreate it using only one synth. 100% of the track is using the OB-X8 (I used 12 patches multitracked using Cubase 12) and the only FX used was from my new BAM reverb processor by OTO Machines.
Radio Gaga instrumental cover featuring the Oberheim OB-X8
As a teen in 1984, Radio Gaga was my favorite song from the era......and still is to this day. It's pure music magic to my ears. I thought that I'd rearrange it using the Oberheim OB-X8 for all the synth/keyboard parts in the song.
San Francisco, CA – July 25, 2022 – Oberheim today began shipping the OB-X8: an eight-voice polyphonic analog synth that combines the classic sound and key features of the legendary OB-X, OB-Xa, and OB-8 products from the 1980s – including all of the original presets that gave them their signature sounds.
“It’s an exciting day for Oberheim and for musicians that have been anxiously waiting for the OB-X8 since we first announced it,” said company founder Tom Oberheim. “Naturally, we’re proud to reintroduce the Oberheim sound in a new instrument. But even more, we’re proud that we’ve been able to combine the voice architectures of the various original OB series synths in a way that gives players unique new sounds and capabilities that even the originals didn’t have. It’s an amazing-sounding instrument.”
The catalog of artists associated with the original OB-series synths is long, and includes innovators like Prince, Eddie Van Halen, Jimmy Jam, and Herbie Hancock. For many, it was much more than just an instrument; it was part of their signature sound and a key part of the musical tapestry of the 1980’s and beyond.
Oberheim alumni Marcus Ryle, who was deeply involved in the design and execution of the OB-X8, summed up the new synth: “As a whole, the OB-X8 covers more sonic territory than any OB-series synth ever created. The Oberheim team has delivered an instrument that will satisfy even the most die-hard Oberheim fans — and introduce an entirely new generation to the incomparable Oberheim sound.”
Oberheim CEO David Gibbons added: “Bringing back Oberheim and creating the new OB-X8 has been a true labor of love. Even more gratifying is the overwhelmingly positive reaction we’ve received from both artists and the music industry as a whole. Everyone is excited about this instrument — and nobody more than us.”
Oberheim brings its products to market with the help of the Focusrite organization and renowned synth maker, Sequential.
The OB-X8 eight-voice analog synthesizer is available now with a US MAP of $4,999.
Blue River Sounds was founded by ex-Sequential, and current Groove Synthesis founding partner, Mark Wilcox.
Note there are three videos in the player above. You can use the player controls to flip between them. The third video, "OB X8 Doubles," features layered sounds.
Details:
"Inspiring and useful sounds for the Oberheim OB-X8. Leads, basses, pads, complex textures, and much more. Available for purchase at www.blueriversounds.com."
"No effects were used in the recording of these sounds. They are organic and full of movement right out of the box and don't rely on FX to make them sound great.
Special thanks to our friend Nick Semrad for his excellent playing in these demos."
OB X8 Doubles - 3rd Video
"64 Doubles presets for the Oberheim OB-X8. These are unique, impactful, and complex Oberheim textures that make great use of Page 2 features and aftertouch to add movement and stereo depth.
This set requires Blue River Sounds OB-X8 Sound Set 1 and Sound Set 2. When you purchase this Doubles set, OB-X8 Sound Set 1 and Sound Set 2 are included."
"Blue River Sounds has 3 new sound sets for the Oberheim OB-X8 — 2 sets of 64 Singles, and 1 set of Doubles that references the Singles. Blue River Sounds was founded by Mark Wilcox, a key player at Dave Smith Instruments/ Sequential for nearly a decade. He also helped bring back Oberheim in 2022 and is co-designer of the 3rd Wave Advanced Wavetable synth at Groove Synthesis."
"Blue River Sounds was founded by Mark Wilcox, a California-based sound and instrument designer whose presets have been featured in every Sequential synthesizer since 2014.
His multi-decade career in music tech includes nearly 10 years at Sequential. His contributions to their product designs and factory sound sets have been numerous.
Mark is also a founding partner of Groove Synthesis and co-designer of the critically-acclaimed 3rd Wave Advanced Wavetable Synth. He did much of the sound design for that synth, as well."
"Oberheim OB-X8 synth demo featuring sounds, patches and presets. In this Oberheim OBX8 demo I showcase the new OB-X8 analog synth from Oberheim and demo a variety of sounds including pads, brass, plucks, arps, bass and more. Filmed at Sequential headquarters in San Francisco.
The Oberheim OB-X8 is a monster analog synth featuring 2 disecrete SEM/OB-X-lineage VCOs per voice. It has 8 voices, 2 oscillators (saw, square/pulse, triangle), noise, SEM and Curtis filters, bi-timbrality, LFOs, arpeggiator, 2 envelopes, velocity sensitivity, channel aftertouch, cross-modulation, portamento, unison, osc sync and more.
The Oberheim OB-X8 combines numerous vintage Oberheim models into a single unit including the OB-X, OB-Xa, OB-8 and OB-SX. The Oberheim OBX8 can put out massive and powerful sounds with huge low-end, creamy filter sweeps and bright and biting tones. It sounds fantastic for pads especially thanks to its wide stereo imaging.
I had the opportunity to try the Oberheim OB-X8 during a trip to San Francisco and visit to Sequential headquarters. It is very impressive in size and sound, and is truly an analog behemoth. If you're after the Oberheim sound, the OB-X8 is amazing. Hope you enjoy this demo of the Oberheim OBX8, I certainly enjoyed my time with it."
Follow-up to this post. Larger pics & the official press release follows:
San Francisco, CA – June 9, 2023 – Oberheim is now shipping the OB-X8 desktop module. For the first time ever, all the sonic power of the Oberheim OB-X, OB-Xa and OB-8 has been condensed into a footprint that is compact enough for studios of any size, and convenient enough to take out on the road.
Following the extraordinarily successful release of the award-winning OB-X8 keyboard in 2022, the desktop module version boasts an identical sound engine, featuring an all-analog signal path with discrete VCOs, VCAs, and filters. The top panel maintains the knob-per-function sound designing experience, with immediate access to virtually all the synth’s parameters, allowing easy and precise creation of unique sounds.
Although the paddles and keybed are missing from the module version, the Arpeggiator and Keyboard Split & Double functionality are maintained, so the OB-X8 desktop is ready to go when connected to your favorite controller.
“The OB-X8 desktop module provides a great opportunity for musicians with limited studio space to get into the classic Oberheim sound, heard on so many hit records over the past 45 years”, said Taiho Yamada, Head of Marketing for Oberheim. “And the combination of synthesis features from the original OB-series synths means that new sounds can be created that were not possible until now.”
Oberheim is a legendary American synthesizer company that has created instant-classic instruments, from the iconic SEM to the modern OB-X8. Founded in 1969 by Tom Oberheim, the company earned the respect of the world for producing innovative synthesizers with unparalleled sonic richness and character. Today, Oberheim brings its products to market with the help of the Focusrite organization and renowned synth maker, Sequential.
The OB-X8 eight-voice analog synthesizer desktop module is available now with a US MAP price of $3,499. For more details visit www.oberheim.com.
This demo was recorded dry straight to Pro Tools, with no external FX, save for some light compression and leveling for the purposing of uploading to YouTube. What you hear is what you get! Of course, users are encouraged to add their own FX, such as chorus, reverb, delay etc. to the sounds. Please see my upcoming video '20 minutes of beautiful OB-X8 & Strymon soundscapes' to hear some of these sounds in context.
There are 64 patches in this preset library and they will load to patches 'OB-X: Groups 8-16' on the OB-X8. The introductory sale price is $39 (normally $45).
The library covers a lot of sonic ground, ranging from ultra vintage Oberheim sounds to tones that fit right into contemporary production. The Oberheim palette is the sound that originally got me into synthesizers (the OB-Xa) and it’s such a joy to have a re-issue of one of the world’s most beloved synthesizers. I hope you enjoy these sounds as much as I enjoyed creating them!
I also have patches available for the Prophet 6, Prophet 5/10, Prophet Rev 2, OB-6, Spectrasonic's Omnisphere, Arturia OP-Xa, Softube's Model 72 & 84, XLN's Addictive Keys Mark One 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 or Wave 2 user, download my bank from the Nord Keyboards website."
"Warning: The recordings in this video have a LOT of bass, even with a 30Hz EQ low cut. Maybe some of that will get trimmed off in YouTube compression.
Contents: 0:00 OB-X8 with TAL chorus I 1:34 Nord Lead 2 with TAL chorus I 3:04 OB-6 with built-in chorus 4:36 Juno-6 with built-in chorus II 6:06 JX-3P with built-in chorus 7:35 JP-8000 with built-in slow chorus 9:06 Reface CS with built-in chorus 10:43 Polyphonic Eurorack with Mimeophon 12:14 OB-X8 with reverb 13:53 Nord Lead 2 with reverb 15:28 OB-6 with reverb 17:04 Juno-6 with reverb 18:41 JX-3P with reverb 20:15 JP-8000 with reverb 21:52 Reface CS with reverb 23:29 Polyphonic Eurorack with reverb
I had to reupload this due to being a Davinci Resolve noob. There were all sorts of weird artifacts in the audio with the original upload. Hopefully it's fixed now.
I'm not sure if there's a point to this video at all. I love soft pad sounds. They're warm and comforting. I decided to make a pad sound on the Roland JX-3P and one thing led to another and of course I had to make a similar sound on ALL of my analog and virtual analog polysynths, including Eurorack, as I now have all the components to make a 2-VCO 4-voice polysynth. All of these pads are based on a simple 2-oscillator sawtooth, with a little detuning and pitch mod to one of the oscillators, if possible. On the Juno I there's only 1 oscillator, so there's maybe a little more LFO to pitch than on the other synths.
In the beginning, you see me play the notes on the Oberheim OB-X8 (Yes, it's an X8 and not something vintage, I have a pinstripe overlay, mostly for the Page 2 labels). I used that "performance" to capture the MIDI, which is then routed to all the other synths that are featured here, including the Eurorack setup. Before tracking the modular stuff, I removed some notes from the recorded MIDI so that there wouldn't be all sorts of crazy unpredictable voice stealing.
I used the built-in chorus on the JX-3P, so I figured it's only fair to use chorus on everything. I used the TAL Juno Chorus plugin on the OB-X8 and Nord Lead 2, setting 1. I used the built-in Chorus II on the Juno-6, and the "slow chorus" on the JP-8000. For the Sequential OB-6 and Yamaha Reface CS, I went for a similar type of slow chorus. The chorus on the OB-6 is very usable if you keep the rate low. There are sweet spots to be found. For Eurorack, I used the Mimeophon with a short delay time. It doesn't really do the chorus thing so much, but it does sort of act as a stereo widener. So if it sounds a little clangy, that's probably why.
Eurorack 4-voice poly is assembled like so: Voice 1: 2 VCOs from the System-500 512, System-500 521 VCF, System-500 VCA, System-500 envelope Voice 2: 2 Eowave Titan VCOs, System-500 521 VCF, System-500 VCA, System-500 envelope Voice 3: 2 VCOs from the Wavefonix Dual CEM 3340, G-Storm SH5-VCF, Doepfer VCA, Doepfer Envelope Voice 4: Dreadbox Erebus all internal VCOs, VCF, VCA, and envelope All voices are mixed together and then fed into the Mimeophon There is some additional filter modulation applied to all filters via the Erebus LFO
After the first round, all recordings are played again with the wonderfully lush Audiothingies DoctorA modulated plate reverb, approx 50/50 wet/dry mix."
"Since it was introduced in May 2022, industry acclaim has been heaped upon OB-X8 as one of the most authentic recreations of a vintage synth ever engineered.
But what thought process is behind the million design decisions involved in a vintage recreation project like this? In this roundtable style discussion, Tom Oberheim (Founder, Oberheim Electronics), Marcus Ryle (OB-X8 Co-Designer, Oberheim Engineer 1980 - 85), Tony Karavidas (Lead Hardware Engineer Sequential/Oberheim) and the late, great Dave Smith (Founder, Sequential and OB-X8 co-designer), talk through trade-offs, design philosophies, and the overall approach that allowed them to produce this amazing instrument.
0:31 What is the OB-X8?
3:44 What gave each OB synth its sound?
6:12 How do you match to a vintage synth?
8:25 Why are Page 2 features important?
9:58 How does OB-X8 differ from the originals?
12:48 What's coming from Oberheim in the future?"
"In this video I played all factory presets of the OB-Xa, which are in the OB-X8 as well. I don't know, if they were accurately reprogrammed or just took as wav file into the cassette interface of the OB-X8. Most were really spot on. Here an there they are not, so it is mandatory to tweak a bit, like modulation rate, filter and envelopes. Some sounds were not equal in volume, I had to adjust.
I recorded all in Mono using the Mono out of the OB-Xa and Stereo out pair (but with mono setting) from the OB-X8. The mono out has in my unit some hum. I will check it out with the distributor or I don't know what happened here. It's not much, but it's there. My unit is only borrowed for a review I have to do for a german music magazine.
I am really impressed by the OB-X8 and it's a great substitute for the very rare and expensive vintage units. The sound is around 90 to 95 percent perfect. Some minimal variances you can hear in the original, maybe due to perfect circuit of the smd-chips instead of old through hole technology with lots of calibration pots (the OB-Xa hat around 150 of them!).
Also here no FX or processing used."
"In a second detailed comparison, Marcus Ryle, co-designer of the Oberheim OB-X8 and an Oberheim engineer from 1980 to 1985, walks through a selection of the most characteristic factory presets on his original OB-Xa to demonstrate just how faithfully the new OB-X8 reproduces each one.
Note that this video does not compare every single preset (there are 104!), but it does show some examples that showcase the different filter modes, using the filter envelope to mod pitch, and layered presets.
All examples are recorded direct in mono, without EQ or effects.
The new OB-X8 — true Oberheim sound. Listen and judge for yourself.
0:00 Intro
2:22 Brass Ensemble - with 4-pole filter
3:51 Some 2-pole Curtis filter presets
5:17 Switching filter types on a single preset
5:59 Filter envelope modulating pitch of Osc 2
7:52 "Flanged" Piano
8:14 Double mode"
"Marcus Ryle, co-designer of the Oberheim OB-X8 and an Oberheim engineer from 1980 to 1985, walks through all 32 of the factory presets on his original OB-X to demonstrate just how faithfully the new OB-X8 reproduces each one.
All examples are recorded direct in mono, without EQ or effects.
The new OB-X8 — true Oberheim sound. Listen and judge for yourself.
0:00 Intro
1:38 Bank A Presets
6:32 Bank B Presets
7:50 Bank C Presets
10:33 Bank D Presets"
"As you might know, I have the OB-X8 only temporally in my studio. Some time ago I used to have a Super 6. Unfortunately I sold it, because I really loved the sound. So I decided to buy it again, when it was still available for the old price. So the OB-X8 will not find place in my studio anymore. Is the Super 6 a good alternative? Well, it is like comparing oranges with apples. The OB-X8 is a full VCO based analog synthesizer with only discrete analog circuitry. The Super 6 is hybrid with NCO and analog SSM Filter. The Super 6 basic waveforms sound more static than the VCO on the Oberheim for sure. But instead of a wide stereo field like on the Oberheim, the Super 6 has it's binaural mode, which makes also very broad stereoesque sounds. I tried to program similar sounds, which was not easy. The Pulse Bass and Triangle Piano I got quite well, but the Brass and Pad sounds didn't sound the same. Anyway the Super 6 sounds great and it is very capable to get a very broad sound palette. So, best would be to have both synths, but when I have to decide, I go for the Super 6, because it really sounds interesting and is a very creative sound designing tool. The OB-X8 ist recorded without FX and processing. The Super 6 has some effects on board (delay and Chorus). I switched those effects off but I played all Sounds in binaural mode. So both synths are without effects and recorded in stereo.
Oberheim Announces OB-X8 Desktop Analog Synth Module Fits Perfectly into Your Studio, Your Music, Your Life
