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.

J.D. Haight

March 11, 2010 @ 9:48 pm

I do love mine, and not a single OB in the rack.

The MIDIGuru

September 27, 2009 @ 10:01 pm

This one is special. You have 100 programs. Transmitting on three independant MIDI channels Three keyboard zones, and a first class arpeggiator. "severely limited by today's standards??? - very few controllers can do what this one can do. "This should be used only for Oberheim systems"??????? I cannot think of a module that this controller cannot fully control.

planetplayer

January 15, 2009 @ 7:13 pm

One of the best controllers I have ever tried and seen. Much earier to use than Yamaha K-88. This should be used only for Oberheim systems. I tried both of them.

<4321>

 

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