Back in 2000, this synth arrived as a bold virtual analog revival of the classic Oberheim sound, packing 12 voices into a hands-on beast that feels like a direct nod to the OB-X era but with digital smarts.
Its synthesis engine draws from physical modeling to emulate those fat Oberheim tones, delivering up to four timbres per note in a 4-part multitimbral setup with key zoning on a 49-key velocity- and aftertouch-sensitive keyboard. Dual filters offer high-pass, low-pass, or band-pass modes, configurable in series, parallel, or split for creamy analog-style sweeps, backed by a deep mod matrix and zero traditional oscillators—instead, it generates waves digitally with extensive shaping options. You'll find 22 knobs, 24 sliders, and 33 buttons for real-time tweaks, plus a ribbon controller, pitch/mod wheels, motion recorder for capturing movements, time-linked morphing, arpeggiator, and phrase recorder; onboard effects include overdrive, chorus, delay, and reverb, with a switchable graphic/parametric EQ. Dual stereo outs and 256 user programs (128 timbres A/B banks) round out the solid, premium-feel chassis that's built to last.
Players love its tactile joy and thick, tweakable sounds—somewhere between a Nord Lead and Roland JD—especially after dialing in beyond the factory presets, though early OS quirks got patched in v1.5 for better stability. A few lingering bugs and modest effects keep it from perfection, but at today's prices, it's a steal for vintage poly fans chasing that Oberheim vibe.
