OB-X8 OS Version 2.0 Update Adds New Filter, Binaural Mode, MPE
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OB-X8 OS V2.0 · Source: Oberheim
Oberheim OB-X8 · Source: Oberheim
Oberheim OB-X8 · Source: Oberheim
Oberheim OB-X8 · Source: Oberheim
[July 3 2024] It’s a big one! Firmware version 2.0 adds all sorts of incredible new functionality to the Oberheim OB-X8.
OB-X8 Updated To Version 2.0
I recently crowned the Oberheim OB-X8 one of the best-sounding synths currently on the market. And that was before this massive firmware update dropped. Now it’s even more powerful, with tons of new features that really expand its sound design and playing potential.
OS version 2.0 beefs up the OB-X8 with a binaural mode that pans individual voices hard left and right. It plumps up the oscillators as well with simultaneously selectable waveshapes for each one. VCO 1 and 2 additionally get new level LFO modulation capabilities.
But wait, there’s more! Oberheim has added a new 4-pole lowpass filter type with fuller bass at high resonance. I like the sound of that. Arpeggiator clock sync now also has selectable note division values.
The good people at Oberheim have also added twice the Split and Double memory locations, giving us 512 more available patches. There are also separate MIDI channels for upper/lower split bi-timbral play.
Speaking of playing, keyboard warriors will be pleased to know that the OB-X8 now has MPE. And, if you’re really rich (or you have similarly well-financed friends) you can poly chain up to four OB-X8s for 32 voices of ridiculousness.
The update is available now for free from the Oberheim home page.
- Oberheim OB-X8 product page and firmware download
[May 10 2022] The Oberheim OB-X8 has arrived and it combines the voice architecture of the OB-X, OB-Xa and OB-8 into one classic looking synthesizer. Is it everything we hoped for?
OB-X8
It may have leaked a bit but none of that takes away from the impression this synthesizer makes. It is assuredly an instant classic. It’s so thoroughly Oberheim that it feels like it’s always existed. It doesn’t seem to be trying to be anything particularly new. Rather, it’s drawing on its legacy of classic and desirable sound machines. Apparently, it’s more than “just replicating vintage oscillators, filters and envelopes” it’s about analysing and replicating every gooey detail. That sounds like the same thing to me but in any case, the result is a stunningly authentic renewal of a classic that’s filled with the “warmth, subtlety, and presence of the originals.”
So, it sounds like the OB-X, OB-Xa and OB-8 in a modern and beautifully made synthesizer – got it!
In terms of the hardware, it’s an 8-voice pure analogue synthesizer with sawtooth, square/pulse, triangle, and noise waveforms. You get two VCOs per voice based on those from the SEM/OB-X, and discrete filters from the same place. In addition, there are Curtis chip-based filters like those in the OB-Xa and OB-8. There are envelopes that match those found in all the synths.
Hardware
It comes with a Fatar 61 note keyboard with velocity and channel aftertouch. The OB-X8 is bi-timbral and so can run two sounds at the same time either layered or split across the keyboard. Inside you’ll discover over 400 presets including all the factory sounds from the original synths. To the side of the keyboard, you’ll find classic Oberheim Pitch and Mod levers that allow for expressive note bending, vibrato, and access to arpeggiator functions.
Enhancements that weren’t found on the originals include additional SEM filter modes, a vintage knob to dial in a bit of instability, enhanced unison, variable triangle wave cross-modulation, programmable per-program pan and variable oscillator and noise levels.
There’s not a whole lot going on in the connections department. Mono and stereo outputs, a filter input, sustain pedal ports, clock and MIDI seems to be the lot. No exciting CV or modular possibilities.
Oberheim at Superbooth
The whole event is very exciting. Just getting the chance to play a genuine Oberheim synthesizer would be a thrill and being able to play a new one just blows my mind. The video demo is a bit mixed and sounds a little bit too snazzy for my tastes but I think Oberheim know their target audience better than me.
Oberheim is on booth 0301 – go and check it out.
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