2016 NAMM Show: At the Winter NAMM Show, Dave Smith Instruments introduced the OB-6, a collaboration between synth pioneers Dave Smith & Tom Oberheim.
The OB-6 is a 6-voice synthesizer, with all-analog signal path and discrete VCOs and filters, with a sound engine inspired by Oberheim’s original SEM.
Here’s a video demo, from the NAMM Show floor, of the new OB-6:
Pricing and Availability
The Dave Smith Instruments OB-6 is manufactured and sold by Dave Smith Instruments. It will be available in March, with a US MAP of $2,999. See DSI’s site for details.
It sounds amazing. I guess it’s time to start saving…
Looks great too
Doesn’t sound like a SEM-6 but hot damn does it sound good. Enjoyed the demo but I’d love to see Cuckoo do 30 minutes at home with it.
An 8 Voice doesn’t sound like an )B-8 either.
They are different synths.
Sounds great, and there’s no doubt that the build quality is top notch. I still feel that for 3 grand, the synth should have at least a 5 octave keyboard. The Prophet 6 is actually quite small when you see it in person, and the OB-6 looks to be the same size.
Because it’s likely exactly the same, only the chips, knobs, paint job are different.
Then why does it cost hundreds more?
I think it was in the sonic state press day video where Dave basically said “Because Tom has to get paid too”. Fair enough.
the continuous-variable Filter mode is unique, definitely not on any other synth. I do seem to like the sound better than the character of the Proph 6 too with the SEM, whether it si different management of the vco or filter or subtle mix of both. Excited to see a side-by-side comparison of the thickest sounds 😀
Is continuously variable filter mode not on the Modal Modulus 002 digital/analogue hybrid synth from the UK? Can be modulated too I think. Best to check videos online or specs for confirmation.
If you want the Oberheim SEM 2 voice synth with 37 keyboard .they are available. Oh, BTY.. It sells for $3,500.00…now what sounds better?
The best sounding synth from Dave (and Tom :))! Will be more than €3000,- within Europe though I’m afraid.
For perspective, this OB-6 is only about 7% more than the Prophet-6, whereas in 1981 the 6-voice OB-X was nearly $2100 more than the Prophet-5 (in today’s dollars). Also,the Two Voice Pro is $3500.
Would help your example if you stuck with percent … or dollars. Not both.
really? 2999-2799 =
OK, the OB-X was 17.4% more than the P-5.
I’m feeling depressed. I will never have this synth. Never.
With the right positive and pure faith, you can have it actually. Just believe 100%. Try it.
I’ll try thanks ! Sir Dave, sir Tom, if you read this, make a desktop version for the poorest passionate people please. This sound must be available for everybody. For now I’ll use my adorable Matrix 1000, but all my money now belongs to the OB-6.
Considering this is a cousin of the Prophet-6 a module version is almost certain, and for $2399 tops.
If it means that much to you you can make it happen. I wouldn’t say it’s just about attitude/belief/faith, but with a smart financial plan, dedication, creativity and patience you can save up for it eventually.
Better in sound quality than any of DSI’s other synths. Vibrant, alive and true VCO quality. Finally, an analog poly from DSI with no compromise in sound. Will purchase this.
why is there no “Sequential” nameplate on this synth???
was that a one-off with the P6 or something?
Ok, with only 49 keys, it will be hard to play JUMP or other classics. Need the extra 12 keys…Please!!