The OB-X8 synthesizer has been universally acclaimed for bringing Oberheim's classic tone to a whole new generation. And now, all the OB-X8 presets, synthesis features, and sound editing controls are available in a compact package that fits everyone’s creative space. The new OB-X8 desktop version has everything the keyboard version has with the exception of the 61-note Fatar keybed and the pitch and mod levers, but don't let that stop you from experiencing all the sonic power of the Oberheim OB-X, OB-Xa, and OB-8 in a footprint that's compact enough for studios of any size, and convenient enough to take out on the road!
The OB-X8 desktop module boasts an identical sound engine to the keyboard version, featuring an all-analog signal path with discrete VCOs, VCAs, and filters. And with its knob-per-function sound designing experience, you'll have immediate access to virtually all the synth's parameters, allowing you to create your own unique sounds with ease and precision.
The audio signal path of the OB-X8 is all analog, filled with warmth and punch. It’s the same trademark Oberheim sound that made iconic tracks like 1999 by Prince, Jump by Van Halen, and Tom Sawyer by Rush so unforgettable. And now it’s yours to enhance your own music.
The classic OB-series factory sounds that you know from countless recordings are all here. But that’s just the start: Oberheim's network of world-class sound designers has created jaw-dropping new sounds just for the OB-X8. And because the OB-X8 has a clear and easy-to-grasp set of controls, creating your own sounds is as easy as turning a few knobs and saving what you like.
The OB-X8 combines the three different voice architectures of the OB-X, OB-Xa, and OB-8 into a single instrument. The individual filter types and other unique characteristics of each model have been faithfully reproduced, giving you the most authentic OB experience possible. You can even mix elements of different models to create sounds never possible with the originals. There’s never been an OB-series synth as powerful and versatile.
OB insiders know that the myriad of “Page 2″ functions unlocked the hidden power of the original OB-8. Oberheim have included all of the classic Page 2 parameters and created new ones for 2022, giving you direct access to 40+ nuanced controls such as additional SEM filter modes, per-voice panning, LFO keyboard tracking, Mod delay time and envelope inversion, independent pulse width control, and much more.
OB-X8 OS update (v2.0): The OB-X8 OS v2.0 introduces several advanced features: instant binaural mode for true stereo operation by panning voices hard left and right, and selectable oscillator waveshapes to extend timbral variety. It also includes a new 4-Pole low pass filter for fuller bass at high resonance, independent VCO 1 and 2 level LFO modulation for advanced timbral mixing, and selectable note division values in arpeggiator clock sync for expanded rhythmic control. Memory locations have doubled, offering 512 more stored sounds, with separate MIDI channels for lower/upper split bi-timbral operation and poly chain capabilities for up to 32 voices with four connected instruments. Download the free update here.
Features
- 8-voice pure-analog polyphony
- Two discrete OB-X/SEM-lineage VCOs per voice deliver classic punchy Oberheim tone
- Discrete SEM-lineage VCFs deliver authentic OB-X-style tone and presence
- Genuine Curtis filters add bold OB-Xa/OB-8 character
- Meticulously modelled envelope responses match each OB model: OB-X, Ob-Xa, and OB-8
- Bi-timbral capability allows two presets simultaneously for splits and doubles
- 400-plus factory programs, including the full set of factory sounds for the OB-X, OB-SX, Ob-Xa, and OB-8
- Integral fan-less, heatsink-free power supply
- Real walnut end cheeks
- High-resolution OLED display enables patch management and easy access to advanced features