The OB-8 was the last of the classic OB series that included the OB-1, OB-Xa and OB-X. The OB-8 is a very warm and rich sounding eight voice polyphonic synthesizer with that classic Oberheim sound. Because it was released just before MIDI debuted, the OB-8 had no MIDI implementation originally, but some models were retrofitted with 9-channel MIDI implementation. The OB-8 did use Oberheim's very own digital buss system making the OB-8 the center-piece of your OB-studio, allowing it to connect to the DSX polyphonic sequencer, DMX drum machine and other OB-synths. In a time before MIDI, this type of instrument connectivity was truly awesome!

The OB-8 is totally programmable and loaded with powerful analog sounds and style. Dedicated knobs, sliders and a traditional layout make programming a snap and very hands-on. Each individual voice can be de-tuned for a very thick (or weird) sound. Syncable VCOs and a nice 8-note arpeggiator are also on-board on this cool analog synth. It has the OB-Xa's switchable 2 or 4-pole VCF (filter) with ADSR. Tons of LFO modulation controls and effects are possible. The OB-8 also introduced a second layer of programming functions - hit the "Page 2" button and all front panel controls were assigned to an entire second set of parameters! The earliest models did not label these hidden "Page 2" functions on the front panel, but that was rectified on later models.

Up to 120 patches of memory storage were also available to keep your amazing sounds around. And 24 additional patches are available for doubled/layer presets. A full 61-note keyboard with Oberheim's unique pitch/modulation benders only sweetens this synth's deal. It is used by Depeche Mode, Prince (the Artist), The Police, Trent Reznor (NIN), Thompson Twins, Rush, Simple Minds, Jimmy Edgar, Jimmy Jam, KLF, Van Halen, Stevie Nicks, Styx, Future Sound of London, Space, REO Speedwagon Paul McCartney, and The Time.

Solstice

December 15, 2008 @ 5:23 pm

Also used by the french singer and composer Daniel BALAVOINE.

Thomas kenny

November 26, 2008 @ 3:36 am

The Oberheim OB-8 synth is one of my favourite oberheim it has a black & blue finish so I used to suggest one of those machines were used by The Thompson twins 80's hit single "Love on your side" & Billy ocean's "When the going get's tough & the tough get's going" the only OB8 synth I used to imagine watching it on "Top of the pops."

Geoff

September 24, 2008 @ 10:52 am

I agree with Bob I got one of these for $2,000.00 this year. I enjoy playing and programming it everyday, I don't know why I chose to wait this long to get one. I was a D-50, DX-7 fanatic in the 80's and a Triton, Yamaha ES user now. I just started adding vintage gear to my live set up...what a great difference analog makes. Love this site, lots of useful information.

Robert Fales

August 30, 2008 @ 2:54 pm

Hi,
Long time viewer, Like your info. I've bought alot of these old analog beasts and am very happy. I always check VSE when wanting info on a synth. Keep up the great work. One thing though as these synths get older they go up in price. I'm buying an OB8 w/midi. I wish I could have gotten it for a thou but I'm paying 2 thou. And it's in great condition. I think it's worth it though. You might want to increase the resale price of these though. Thanks Bob Fales

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