OB-X8 Bi-Timbral Polyphonic Analog Keyboard

Back in the late '70s, the original OB-X set the standard for fat, aggressive analog poly synth tones that defined countless hits, and this modern take captures that essence while blending in the best from the OB-Xa and OB-8.

It packs eight voices of pure analog polyphony, with two discrete SEM/OB-X style VCOs per voice offering saw, square/pulse, triangle, and noise waveforms, plus independent pulse width control and variable triangle cross-modulation for thick, evolving sounds. Classic discrete SEM-lineage filters include the original low-pass plus high-pass, band-pass, and notch modes, shaped by meticulously modeled ADSR envelopes that match each vintage OB model, alongside a versatile LFO with keyboard tracking and delay options. The front panel gives immediate access to over 40 knobs and switches for cutoff, resonance, envelopes, and more, including a Vintage knob for that authentic voice-to-voice drift. Bi-timbral operation lets you layer or split two presets, with enhanced unison stacking up to all eight voices, per-voice panning, and an arpeggiator tied to the classic pitch and mod levers.

Built solid at 46 by 22.25 by 10.5 inches and 32.5 pounds, it sports a premium 61-key Fatar keyboard with velocity and channel aftertouch for expressive play, real walnut end cheeks, a high-res OLED display for patch management among 400+ factory and 600+ user programs, and a fanless power supply. Connectivity covers stereo/mono outs, stereo audio in, pedal inputs for sustain/volume/filter, MIDI in/out/thru, USB, and arpeggiator clock.

Players love how it nails the punchy basses, soaring leads, and lush pads of the originals right out of the box, with the added features making it a studio and stage powerhouse—though some note the fixed eight voices limit massive layering compared to newer beasts.