Oberheim OB-X8 (2022–)

An 8-voice analog polyphonic synthesizer reintroducing the classic Oberheim sound with modern build and dual VCO architecture per voice.

Overview

The Oberheim OB-X8 is an analog polyphonic synthesizer produced from 2022 to the present, marking the return of the Oberheim synth line after more than 40 years. Manufactured by Oberheim, it is available in two form factors: a 61-key keyboard version and a desktop module. The instrument features pure-analog polyphony with two discrete SEM/OB-X-lineage VCOs per voice, capturing the sonic character of the original OB-series synths through meticulous component-level recreation. It includes dual LFOs, amp and filter envelopes, and a multimode filter section combining SEM and CEM3320 designs, with a new 4-pole filter mode added via firmware.

Specifications

Voice/Polyphony	8
Keyboard	61 keys (for keyboard version)
Form factor	Available in 61-key and desktop modules
Finish	Black with wood sides
Oscillators per voice	Two discrete SEM/OB-X-lineage VCOs
Oscillator waveforms	Sine, saw, square, triangle, and noise
Filter types	Multimode SEM and CEM3320
Filter mode	New 4-pole filter mode (via OS 2.0)
Envelopes	Amp and filter envelopes
LFOs	Dual LFOs
Audio Outputs	Three unbalanced quarter-inch outputs (left/mono/right)
Pedal Inputs	3 x 1/4" (sustain, volume, filter)
Other I/O	1 x 1/4" arpeggiator clock input
MIDI	Lower and Upper split MIDI channels
Architecture	Pure-analog

Design

The OB-X8 uses a pure-analog architecture with two discrete SEM/OB-X-lineage VCOs per voice, designed to replicate the complex component interactions of the original OB-series synths. The filter section combines multimode capabilities from both SEM and CEM3320 circuits, enhanced with a new 4-pole mode introduced in firmware. The unit is built with a black finish and wood side panels, available in both 61-key and desktop configurations.

Context

Introduced in 2022 at Superbooth, the OB-X8 marks the return of the Oberheim synthesizer line, continuing the OB legacy that began in 1979. Developed with input from Tom Oberheim and Dave Smith, it was the first new Oberheim synthesizer in over four decades, released under Music Tribe’s stewardship.

Market

Current market prices range from $3,100 to $3,999.99, with the desktop module listed at an MSRP of $3,499.99. Used listings show prices as low as $2,462 for the desktop version and $3,200 for the 61-key model. The synth is marketed as a high-end analog revival, appealing to collectors and performers seeking authentic vintage Oberheim tones.