Oberheim Is Back!

Synth lovers around the world rejoice. It’s finally happening.

“Oberheim is back, baby!”

After years locked in a much-publicized trademark battle, Tom Oberheim has wrangled back control of his legendary brand, and he’s relaunching it with an absolute bang: the Oberheim OB-X8.

The OB-X8 is the ultimate OB-series synth — the line made famous by Prince, Van Halen, Rush, the Police, Gary Numan, and countless other synth-obsessed bands and artists. The OB-X8 is a gorgeously crafted polyphonic synth that packages three of Tom’s most-coveted designs into a single instrument: the OB-X, the OB-Xa, and the OB-8.

Original components from these iconic synths have been faithfully reproduced, such as the SEM/OB-X–lineage VCOs, SEM-lineage VCFs, and meticulously modeled envelopes. The OB-X8 retains the OB-8’s powerful “Page 2” functions, and it comes packed with 400 original factory presets. What’s more, it’s an absolute looker of a synth with a retro-fabulous design, Fatar keybed, and figured walnut end cheeks. Take a look!

What Are People Saying About the OB-X8?

A handful of world-renowned Oberheim aficionados have gotten a chance to put the OB-X8 through its paces, and their takes are just what you’d expect — minds blown!

“I was immediately impressed with the forensic level of detail that went into the OB-X8 design and the respect for its lineage.”Trent Reznor – Nine Inch Nails/Film Composer

“After playing the OB-X8, I’m convinced I need it. It’s a true Oberheim, a great instrument, and a part of synth history.”Michael Stein – Composer, “Stranger Things”

“My reaction to the OB-X8 was one of sheer joy. That sound was back and covers every filter type Oberheim ever employed.”Steve Porcaro – Toto, Songwriter, Composer

What’s Next for Oberheim?

As if the OB-X8 wasn’t enough, from what we understand, it’s just the beginning of Oberheim’s latest chapter. The company is poised to bring the Oberheim sound to a new generation of synthesists with a full roster of instruments based on some of the finest-sounding synthesizers ever made. For years, Oberheim synths have been rare to the point of being unattainable, fetching (rightfully) exorbitant prices in the used marketplace. So, we at Sweetwater couldn’t be more excited to help carry forward Tom’s pioneering vision and unending passion for synthesizers.

For more information about the Oberheim OB-X8, click here or contact your Sweetwater Sales Engineer at (800) 222-4700.

Learn More About Tom Oberheim’s Legacy

At Sweetwater, we were fortunate enough to sit down with Tom Oberheim to chat about his history, legacy, design philosophy, and more. Check out Mitch Gallagher’s interview with Tom Oberheim and Tom’s appearance alongside fellow synth luminaries Roger Linn and Dave Smith at Sweetwater’s GearFest.

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