Behringer's take on the classic Oberheim OB-Xa arrives as a fully analog 16-voice synthesizer that manages to feel both historically faithful and genuinely modern in how it handles polyphonic expression. Rather than just copying the original, they've added features like a modulation matrix, dual VCFs per voice, and MPE support that give you far more sonic flexibility than the '80s original ever offered.
The heart of the UB-Xa is its 16-voice architecture, with each voice built around two analog oscillators, dual voltage-controlled filters, and its own dedicated modulation LFO. You get oscillator sync, selectable waveforms, and 8 vintage modes that let you dial in everything from warm, smooth pads to aggressive, detuned textures. The 61-key keyboard includes velocity sensitivity and polyphonic aftertouch, so every finger on the keyboard can control parameters independently. Beyond the keys, you'll find a proper arpeggiator, 16-step sequencer, and that modulation matrix mentioned earlier, which opens up deep creative routing possibilities without needing to dive into menus constantly.
The split and layer modes let you run two completely different sounds simultaneously, which is huge for live performance or complex arrangements. Controls are laid out logically across the panel, with dedicated sections for oscillators, filters, envelopes, and modulation sources. The synth runs on analog circuitry throughout the signal path, so you're getting that warm, slightly compressed character analog synthesis is known for rather than digital emulation.
Since hitting the market, the UB-Xa has earned genuine respect from players who appreciate its smooth, pad-friendly character and the sheer amount of polyphonic modulation you can achieve. Some users have noted quirks with the MPE implementation and MIDI CC mapping, but the core sound and hands-on workflow have proven solid enough that it's become a go-to for anyone wanting serious analog polyphony without the classic Oberheim price tag.
