GForce Software are renowned for the quality and authenticity of their analogue synthesizer emulations, and their Oberheim OB-E recreation became the first software instrument to gain the personal endorsement of Tom Oberheim himself. Now, the company have set their sights on another of the legendary synth designer’s classics, the Oberheim OB-X, and have once again gained the official seal of approval.
The Old
The company say that their engineers have painstakingly modelled an original OB-X, capturing it in all its glory. As with the hardware version, there are two oscillators per voice, a two-pole resonant low-pass filter, an amplifier section and a pair of envelope generators, and the original modulation source and destination options are all present. However, as with many of their offerings, GForce have also taken the opportunity to introduce some new features that aim to extend the iconic synth’s capabilities.
The New
The resulting instrument offers up to 16 voices with Mono, Legato, Poly and Unison modes, and is equipped with a Vintage parameter that allows users to introduce some subtle, analogue-like imperfections. Four programmable macro controls have also been added, and the LFO has been kitted out with new intro, re-trigger, phase and smoothing features. The company’s X-Modifier technology offers pre-configured modulation paths that allow just about any parameter to be controlled from X-LFO and X-ADSR sections, making it possible to apply complex modulations without the need to set up any routing paths.
Performance functionality has also been expanded, with Oberheim OB-X benefitting from a built-in arpeggiator and chord mode, along with aftertouch capabilities and an expanded set of velocity controls. There are some onboard effects, too, allowing users to process their patches even further using the instrument’s Chorus, Delay and Reverb sections.
GForce have implemented a new Preset Browser system equipped with comprehensive tagging, sorting and searching capabilities, making it easy for users to find and load their favourite patches. Over 400 presets are included, offering a huge range of sounds that range from recreations of classic tones to modern alternatives that make use of the extended feature set.
Compatibility
Oberheim OB-X is supported on PCs running Windows 7 and above, and Macs running macOS 10.13 or higher. VST2, VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available, and there is also a standalone application.
Pricing & Availability
Oberheim OB-X is available now, and the company are running introductory pricing offers for the instrument on its own, and their Oberheim Bundle. Prices are as follows:
- Oberheim OB-X: £59.99 (usually £99.99)
- Oberheim - The Bundle: £169.99 (usually £249.99)
- Oberheim - The Bundle (upgrade): £39.99
Prices exclude VAT.
