Oberheim OB-X8 Desktop

The Oberheim OB-X8 Desktop is an eight-voice pure-analogue polysynth that combines SEM-lineage VCOs and VCFs with Curtis filter circuitry, model-accurate envelopes and MPE-ready modern control to deliver an authoritative Oberheim sound engine.

Classic Oberheim Architecture

Oberheim designed the OB-X8 to reproduce the sonic DNA of the OB-X, OB-Xa and OB-8 in a single instrument. Each of the eight voices uses two discrete SEM-heritage voltage-controlled oscillators offering saw, square and pulse waves, triangle, and noise, delivering the familiar weight, focus and harmonic density of the original machines. The audio path remains entirely analogue, which retains punch, warmth and transient integrity across complex chords, drones and modulated patches. Genuine Curtis filter stages sit alongside discrete SEM filters, giving users access to both the creamy OB-X character and the more aggressive OB-Xa/OB-8 response.

Authentic Envelope Behaviour

Oberheim reverse-engineered the envelope timing, curvature and tracking behaviours from each legacy OB model. Players may switch between OB-X, OB-Xa and OB-8 response profiles, enabling true period accuracy when reproducing vintage patches or sculpting modern tones informed by classic synthesis.

Modern Refinements

Version 2.0 firmware expands the instrument with instant binaural operation that pans each voice for immersive stereo depth and movement. Users may select simultaneous waveshapes per oscillator for enhanced harmonic complexity and introduce independent level modulation to VCO1 and VCO2 to achieve continuously shifting timbre. A new four-pole low-pass filter type increases low-end solidity at high resonance, and the arpeggiator now supports selectable note divisions for precise sync with DAWs and hardware clocks.

Performance and Workflow

Bi-timbral operation supports split and layered performance setups, with a large internal patch library that includes factory programs from the OB-X, OB-SX, OB-Xa and OB-8. A high-resolution OLED screen assists in patch editing and system navigation while preserving the immediacy of a knob-per-function panel.

Desktop Variant

The compact desktop edition retains the full synthesis engine and front-panel functionality in a portable footprint, ideal for modular-centric and hybrid production environments. Both versions use a fanless internal power supply and real walnut side panels for a studio-grade build.

Why Choose the OB-X8

• Capture true Oberheim tone without compromise

• Move between vintage accuracy and modern expression

• Unlock immersive stereo patches with instant binaural mode

• Design evolving analogue textures using simultaneous waveforms

• Benefit from model-matched envelopes and dual filter personalities

• Integrate seamlessly into high-end studio and performance rigs

• Eight-voice pure analogue polyphony with dual SEM-lineage VCOs per voice
• Saw, square, pulse, triangle and noise source options
• Discrete SEM-style filters plus Curtis low-pass filter modes
• OB-X, OB-Xa and OB-8 envelope models selectable
• MPE support and velocity/aftertouch on keyboard version
• Bi-timbral splits and layers
• 400-plus factory sounds including original OB-series presets
• Binaural mode with per-voice stereo panning
• Simultaneous oscillator waveforms and independent VCO level modulation
• Arpeggiator with clock sync and multiple note divisions
• High-resolution OLED display
• Classic Oberheim pitch and mod levers on keyboard version
• Internal fanless power supply with real walnut sides

This item, like everything we supply, comes with the complete support of our expert team. Our excellent technicians have been specifying, building and supporting studios for over twenty years. If you have any problems with installation, setup or everyday use, they’re never more than a click away, and always happy to help.

You can contact them here.