Tom Oberheim and GForce Software have introduced GForce Oberheim SEM, a software synth for Mac & Windows that recreates the sound of Oberheim’s classic synth design.
Here’s what they have to say about it:
“When Tom Oberheim created the first Oberheim® Synthesizer Expander Module (model SEM-1) in 1974, he had one goal – to make a synth that sounded great, whilst being extremely simple to use. In the decades since the release of this iconic synth, it’s been used by countless legendary musicians, making the SEM one of the most revered synthesizers of all time.
As well as painstakingly recreating the huge, unmistakable sound of the SEM, the GForce Oberheim SEM also recreates the ethos of the original – a simple monophonic synth that allows you to shape incredible sounds in an instant. And with Tom Oberheim’s seal of approval, you can be confident in its authenticity. Add to this more than 400+ categorised patches, and inspiration is just moments away.”
While GForce Oberheim SEM is designed to recreate the sound of the original, the software version of the synth feature several enhancements over the original.
Alongside a new VCO3, which doubles as an LFO with audio rate for additional modulation and FM possibilities, the SEM now has tempo-syncable LFOs with multiple wave shapes, and a host of performance controls via velocity and aftertouch. It also features an arpeggiator & sequencer, a stereo delay and a lush reverb.
Finally, it features 400+ factory patches designed by top sound designers, designed to demonstrate the sonic range of the SEM. Every patch has been categorised and is quickly accessible from the patch browser (arrow navigation friendly). The SEM also integrates with the GForce Oberheim OB-E, so you can load SEM presets in either device. This means you can sketch out your sounds in the SEM, and then make them polyphonic in an instant.
Features:
- Recreation of the monophonic SEM experience and sound
- Augmented with a 3rd VCO
- 400+ factory Patches designed to fit in a mix, all tagged and categorized
- Librarian for easy access to the presets
- Sequencer, Arpeggiator, Stereo Delay, Reverb
- Undo/Redo, Extended and Flip mode
- SEM presets can be exported to and imported from OB-E
- Extensive Velocity & Aftertouch modulation
Audio Demo:
Pricing and Availability:
The GForce Oberheim SEM is available now, with an intro price of £29.99 + VAT (normally £49.99 +VAT).
“ The SEM also integrates with the GForce Oberheim OB-E, so you can load SEM presets in either device. This means you can sketch out your sounds in the SEM, and then make them polyphonic in an instant.”
Or they could have a button that toggles between mono and poly like my Moog,and IOddessy apps do. Such a common feature on iOS synths so on a pc it shouldn’t be that hard to implement.
I have no interest in OB-E. I am happy they kept it the way it is so I don’t have to pay for features I won’t need. at the introductory price it was an instant purchase.
Since I already have PluginGuru’s Unify, I can turn SEM into a Poly if I ever desire, and the polyphony will be limited by my computer specs. easily 16 voice.
John just did a great livestream on this. Unify is awesome. I had 2 Pro-Ones in my live setup once upon a time long ago and his recent version of that for Unify is also awesome. Too much audio fun.
software; ho hum.
That’s like saying, “Real artists only use paint.”
Unnecessarily limiting. Yeah, it’s not a physical box. It is an affordable and very musical instrument, though. And at the end of the day it should be about making music, not collecting metal boxes with knobs.
its totally about collecting metal boxes with knobs. nonetheless, i’m buying this synth
Narrow-minded elitists; ho hum.
How does it compare to Oberhausen?
Tried then both yesterday. This smokes the BX. Also way better than the cherry audio one. Lovely sounding thing had to buy it.
Such a beautiful sounding synth. I’m buying my shortly.
And . . . Inside of Reason, one could use the Combinator to build a 3-oscillator, 6-voice (or more) polyphonic version of this.
I don’t think there’s an advantage with this over Arturia’s SEM V, especially since I already have Arturia’s V Collection 9. Oh yeah…GForce has the only SEM software endorsed by Tom Oberheim. LOL. Hope they’re paying Tom a lot of money for his endorsement.
I’d buy that for a dollar