Oberheim OB-Xk

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The Oberheim OB-Xk is a MIDI keyboard controller from the mid-eighties. Originally designed to control the Matrix and Xpander modules, it uses MIDI and works fine as a controller for any MIDI gear. It's got 61 keys that respond to velocity and aftertouch, two OB-style Pitch/Mod controllers, and one assignable continuous control slider. From the front panel you can directly access the first 100 single patches and/or 100 multi patches of your MIDI module. Any additional patches must be selected by another MIDI controller.

Other features include the ability to transpose up or down by up to 2 octaves or by half steps. The keyboard can be split into 3 zones. There are basic Hold and Chord memory functions and an Arpeggiator section with pretty decent features (it can use internal or external clock). The OB-Xk can also send a sequencer Song Select, Start and Stop commands. It's built with Oberheim's classic & vintage look: solid black metal case with wood end-cheeks. Definitely a unique controller to have around, although severely limited by today's standards.



17 VISITOR COMMENTS

jbfairlight
February 2, 2012 @ 2:21 pm
I am looking for a EPROM version of the software more recent than an rev 1.
trz
December 13, 2011 @ 3:04 pm
HI Everybody, I'd be also interested on having not only the user manual but also the shematics because mine (wich I haven't received yet) seems to have a power supply problem.... I'd very pleased that somebody put that kind of info somewhere online because (apparently I'm not the only one) I may really need it...
All my very best from france !
RickyLee
December 10, 2011 @ 5:29 pm
Would anyone know where or how to find a users manual for this OB Xk/ I had read someones request for it, however I didn't see the reply, if possibly, anyone who knows how I can download one, I would be grateful. I can buy one for $20.00, however, I would think there must be a way to get it without purchasing, or at least i hope there is a way.
thanks
Craig
December 6, 2011 @ 9:07 am
Not Craig Anderton. Craig Anderton is a good writer, but I don't believe he did any design work. Wrote a lot of user manuals.
My last name begins with 'L' and I'm not well known.
If you have a XK and an Expander, hold down 5 & 6 on the XK, and power up. You will see my full name on the Expander display, or if you have a midi monitor program, capture the Oberheim system ex. msg that is spit out.
Boot
October 26, 2011 @ 11:07 am
Craig Who? That's not Craig Anderton, is it?
 
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  • Specifications
  • Polyphony - n/a
  • Oscillators - n/a
  • Effects - n/a
  • Filter - n/a
  • Arpeg/Seq - Arpeggiator with internal/external clock sources
  • Keyboard - 61 keys (velocity, after-touch)
  • Memory - 100 single patches, 100 multi patches, 3 zones
  • Control - MIDI Out (1 channel at a time)
  • Date Produced - 1986
  • Est. Value - $400 - 900
  • Resources & Credits
  • Images from Synth Site

    Thanks to Scott Marcotte for providing information.

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