SYNTH WEEK 2024: Oberheim, a name synonymous with legendary synthesizers from the golden age of analogue, has rekindled its rich tradition of creating groundbreaking instruments. Since releasing the OB-6 in 2016, and its official reformation in 2022, Oberheim has achieved a series of significant milestones, catapulting the company back to the forefront of electronic music.
The spark reignited through the collaboration between synthesizer visionaries Dave Smith and Tom Oberheim, when they unveiled the OB-6, a polyphonic synth that combines the classic Oberheim sound with Sequential’s modern synthesis features.
In 2019, Tom Oberheim reclaimed the Oberheim name, solidifying his legacy. This momentum surged with the release of the OB-X8, an award-winning analogue synthesizer praised for its authentic OB-series sound and vast sonic capability.
Today, Oberheim keeps pushing boundaries with the introduction of the TEO-5. This compact and modern instrument embodies the spirit of continuous innovation, proving that the Oberheim sound keeps evolving and inspiring new generations of musicians.
The OB-6: A Powerful Polysynth from Two Legendary Designers
The Oberheim OB-6, released in collaboration with Sequential, is a 6-voice polyphonic synthesizer born from the remarkable friendship between synthesizer icons Dave Smith and Tom Oberheim. It captures the classic SEM sound with true voltage-controlled oscillators, a 2-pole state-variable filter, and analog VCAs, further enhanced with modern features like a polyphonic step sequencer, arpeggiator, and more.
Unmistakable Sonic Power
The OB-6 boasts two discrete VCOs with continuously variable waveshapes and a sub-oscillator per voice. X-Mod between oscillators further multiplies the sonic possibilities. The filter features low-pass, high-pass, band-pass and notch modes for flexible tone shaping, while dual digital effects provide lush reverbs, delays, chorus, and flangers, along with faithful recreations of Oberheim's original phase shifter and ring modulator.
Intuitive Control
The knob-per-function interface provides immediate access to all parameters, while a dedicated "Manual" button allows real-time manipulation of the OB-6's settings, ensuring a seamless workflow. And with 500 presets and 500 user programs, the OB-6 is ready for any musical task.
The OB-X8: A Legend Reborn
The OB-X8, released in 2022, is Oberheim’s flagship instrument, capturing the legendary sound of the original OB-series synthesizers in minute detail. It boasts a 100% analog audio path, delivering the warmth and punch that made iconic tracks by Prince, Van Halen, and Rush unforgettable. OB-X8 isn't a copy – it's the genuine Oberheim sound, meticulously recreated for today’s musician.
Three Synths in One
The OB-X8 combines the distinct voice architectures of the OB-X, OB-Xa, and OB-8 into a single powerhouse instrument. Faithfully reproduced filter types and characteristics allow you to explore the sonic palette of each model, or even blend synthesis elements together for all new Oberheim sounds.
Expressive Inspiration
OB-X8 features a premium Fatar keyboard with velocity and aftertouch for a truly expressive playing experience, as well as Oberheim’s iconic, performance-friendly pitch and mod levers. A full-featured arpeggiator adds further creative possibilities, so dig in and create sizzling filter sweeps, intense vibrato, and more – just like the legendary OB performers of the past.
TEO-5: A Compact Powerhouse for Modern Music Creation
Thomas Elroy Oberheim. TEO. More than his initials, they mark the culmination of a synth pioneer’s vision. TEO-5 captures the secrets of the OB-X, Four Voice, and TVS, their legendary spirit distilled into a modern instrument brimming with analog soul. Featuring genuine analog VCOs, VCFs, and five inspiring voices, TEO-5 delivers a compact and affordable dream machine for musicians of all levels.
Modern Innovation Meets Vintage Magic
TEO-5's updated oscillators roar with linear through-zero FM, birthing never-before-heard textures. Sculpt your sound with the legendary SEM filter, the heart of countless Oberheim-driven hits. Spot-on OB-8 envelope emulations and a comprehensive modulation matrix provide deep sonic control, while the power of dual digital effects and Oberheim's iconic Phase Shifter and Ring Modulator emulations deliver a true taste of sonic alchemy.
Step Up to TEO-5
From soaring leads to cascading chords and thunderous bass, TEO-5 elevates every aspect of your musical performance. Whether you're a seasoned pro seeking a compact powerhouse or a new artist embarking on your analog adventure, TEO-5 is your sonic passport. Step up and write your own sonic legacy with the Oberheim TEO-5.
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