GForce Software’s popular Oberheim OB-E offers a software recreation of the Oberheim 8-Voice, an instrument which combined eight of the iconic synth company’s renowned SEM units into a single polyphonic device. It became the first software instrument ever to receive the personal endorsement of Tom Oberheim himself, and now, GForce have announced the release of Oberheim OB-EZ, which offers the same powerful sound in a new, focused user interface.
The newly designed GUI provides users with a more compact set of essential controls, and aims to provide the same character as the original whilst simplifying the process for producers who need to work quickly. Key parameters including cutoff and resonance and envelopes are present, along with tuning and portamento options, and there’s also a selection of built-in effects that include delay and reverb, as well as the company’s Vintage knob, which can be used to introduce some analogue-style variation.
Despite the instrument’s simplified interface, GForce are keen to point out that OB-EZ is still built around the same core sound engine as its fully kitted-out sibling. Over 260 OB-E presets are included, and have been picked specifically to make the most of the controls provided in this latest plug-in. A new Preset Browser provides quick and easy access to all of the built-in sounds, and OB-EZ also benefits from a full resizable GUI and CC MIDI mapping capabilities.
If users decide that they need some additional power, then presets created with OB-EZ can be imported into OB-E, where they can be expanded using all of the additional tools and functions including individual SEM voice controls, levels and pans, split patches, advanced modes, additional effects controls, a sequencer, a built-in Drum Mode and more.
Compatibility
Oberheim OB-EZ 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, along with a standalone application.
Pricing & Availability
Oberheim OB-EZ is available now, and is currently being offered for an introductory price of $29.99£29.98 including VAT until 7 March 2024, when it will increase to its full price of $59.99£59.98 including VAT. It will be free to new and existing OB-E owners, and will be automatically added to their accounts.
