Oberheim OB-X8

Oberheim OB-X8 is an 8-voice analog synthesizer with a 61-key FATAR keyboard, two discrete SEM-series VCOs per voice, SEM-series discrete VCFs, over 400 factory presets, and an arpeggiator. Its fully analog signal path delivers a bold, unmistakably Oberheim sound that cuts through any mix.

OB-X8 unites the voice architectures of the OB-X, OB-Xa, and OB-8, authentically recreating their filter types and unique features. Users can even combine elements of each model to produce sounds that go beyond the capabilities of the originals. Sound designers have contributed a wide range of fresh factory patches, while the intuitive front panel encourages quick creation and saving of custom sounds.

Oberheim’s team meticulously recreated the original OB synths' nuanced interactions between oscillators, filters, and envelopes to deliver the warmth, presence, and complexity of the vintage units. Page 2 functions, originally hidden in the OB-8, are fully accessible here—offering control over 40+ additional parameters including SEM filter modes, voice panning, LFO key tracking, modulation delay time, and envelope inversion.

The OB-X8 features a custom-designed expression lever and a premium FATAR keybed with velocity and aftertouch sensitivity for expressive performance. Version 2.0 firmware adds binaural stereo panning, simultaneous waveform selection, a new 4-pole filter for deeper bass, independent VCO level modulation, and enhanced MIDI capabilities, including MPE and Poly Chain for up to 32-voice operation.

KEY FEATURES

• Authentic analog signal path based on OB-X, OB-Xa, and OB-8
• 61-key FATAR keybed with velocity and aftertouch
• Two SEM-style discrete VCOs and VCFs per voice
• Binaural panning mode for stereo spatial effects
• Simultaneous oscillator waveform selection
• New 4-pole filter for rich low-end
• Independent LFO modulation for VCO 1 and VCO 2
• 400+ factory programs including all original OB-X, OB-Xa, OB-8 presets
• Arpeggiator with rhythm division and sync
• Dual patch memory with 512 total locations
• MPE support for per-note expression control
• Poly Chain mode for stacking up to 32 voices across multiple OB-X8 units
• Dedicated Page 2 access with 40+ hidden parameters
• OB-X8 SoundEditor software for full librarian and editing capabilities
• Custom walnut wood side panels and aluminum chassis

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Keys: 61 semi-weighted FATAR, velocity and aftertouch sensitive
• Voices: 8-voice analog polyphony
• Oscillators: 2 discrete VCOs per voice (sine, saw, pulse with PWM)
• Filters: SEM-based discrete analog VCFs per voice (2-pole/4-pole modes)
• Presets: 512 user patch locations (400+ factory presets)
• Modulation: LFO with multiple destinations, aftertouch, velocity, Page 2 parameters
• Connectivity: MIDI In/Out/Thru, USB MIDI, CV/Gate, sustain and expression pedal inputs
• Dimensions: 102.8 x 42.3 x 14.9 cm
• Weight: 12.07 kg
• Power: Integrated fanless PSU with passive cooling