Tom Oberheim, one of the most revered names in the history of analog synths, has released additional information and pricing on his ‘latest’ synthesizer – the Son Of Four Voice.
The Son Of Four Voice brings together four monophonic SEM synth modules to create one polyphonic MIDI-controlled analog monster synth.
Features:
- Four classic Synthesizer Expander Module (SEM) synth modules
- SEMs are 100% discrete analog – no custom chips
- New state of the art Voice Control & Programmer retains all features of the original Four Voice Programmer and Keyboard control modules while adding new capabilities
- SO4V may be used as a four-voice polyphonic synthesizer or as four individual synthesizers under MIDI control
- Two MIDI sync capable LFOs with multiple waveshapes including sample and hold per voice
- Two programmable ADSR envelope generators per voice
- Selectable master tuning (both VCOs or VCO2 only) allows easy detuning for huge unison sounds
- Polyphonic portamento with linear or exponential response
- Noise generator connected to filter input #1
- External audio or A440 tuning reference connected to filter input #2
- Updated output module with mix and pan control for each voice
- Two SO4Vs can be easily connected together – result: eight voices!
- Signature plate–each SO4V comes with Tom Oberheim’s signature on the front
While the Son Of Four Voice updates the classic 70’s Oberheim Four Voice synthesizer, it retains some of the original’s limitations.
Oberheim notes, “The SO4V is a special machine – for ease of use and fast setup, it is outdone by numerous hardware and software synths conceived for the mainstream. But there is nothing on the planet that SOUNDS like it!”
The Oberheim Son Of Four Voice retails for $3495.
Details at the Oberheim site.
I think it's awesome, I know it's expensive but if you consider the second hand prices of Prophet 5's and OBX's it's not that ridiculous.Granted it's only 4 voices but atleast it will be stable and have midi.Now i am going to donate plasma and start saving up.
I will buy your plasma, sell it on and start saving up as well.
I love the OB sound and i respect Tom Oberheim, but i'm a little puzzled about the price. How can Dave Smith produce a 8 voice analog polysynth (with keyboard) for about half the price?
because DSI synths are not using old-school, quality parts. The SEM is discrete analog, which costs way more to make.
DSI stuff uses "synth chips" in the design, which makes it so inexpensive.
Er, 'quality' parts? Meaning DSI doesn't use 'quality' parts? Fail.
Besides Trent Reznor, no one will be able to afford this..lol.
$3500. ffs
Jesus Wept.
this thing is epic and even though i can't afford one at the moment i'm glad it is being made.
having programming flexibility is nice and DSI makes interesting, kickass synthesizers
i have a patch panel SEM, and if i had 2 of them, i wouldn't trade them for a P08 ever. i'd probably be willing to trade 1 for a P08.. then sell the P08 and buy another SEM
this thing isn't about programming complex sounds… its about amazing sound
the SEM sounds so badass.. it actually made me a little sad because I have so loved my Future Retro XS… luckily the XS has enough other qualities that the SEM doesn't spank it in every department and the XS actually excells at certain sounds and is just a joy to program complex patches on
if you think this is expensive for 4 voices this is what you do. you can easily buy all the PCBs, surface mount discrete pieces that make up each voice. buy everything you need to build a 4 voice synth, buy or build and enclosure… now build the synth…. when faced with doing this I know what I would do… I'd go with the motherfucking legendary SEM sound and quality and let Tom build it himself.. which he does
if 3,500 is expensive to you for something that will provide a lifetime of enjoyment and unquestionable epic sounds i have to wonder… are you getting on the internet @ the library? because a few years of upgrading your computer will easily out weight the cost of this synthesizer and will surely cause many more headaches than this synth ever will
The price is high – but Oberheim is giving people exactly what at least one part of the synth market wants – updated versions of some synth classics.
Using discrete analog parts instead of analog ICs does raise manufacturing costs, it is debatable if it prevents circuit failures after long time use, it certainly allows greater flexibility in designing custom audio products, but all these do not justify SUCH a high price. Ok, Tom is a legend and he deserves a lot, but, business wise, this is waaayyy overpriced. A "boutique" instrument? Elitistic? Maybe. I cannot afford it, but even if i had the money, i'd probably spend it on other synths, like secondhand OBX or Matrix12 ….
Anyway, i wish great sales to Tom, he deserves it.
People forking out this much for a synthesiser know exactly what they want. This will be what it costs to make such a thing… I'll hazard the mark-up isn't too great. Where cost offends me is where it is 'rip off' and 'cashing in'. This isn't that. Just solid craftsmanship from a musical instrument maker.
Yeah – I won't be buying this, but I'm glad that there's an audience for instruments like this, and Dave Smith's and Don Buchla's and so that they can continue creating new synths.
It looks like a thing of beauty. I would love to spend even an afternoon playing around with this.
It's cheaper than it was 30 yers ago!
Everybody complaints about the new jupiter 80!
-its digital! It's a ripp off! it's not a jupiter! etc etc
How much do you think it would cost an original replica? At least 5000!
So if you want modern analog with the same sound as the vintage ones you have to pay!
If you don't have the money make music with a soft synth or a novation or whatever!
Best wishes to Tom!
Dave Smith DOES NOT use quality parts. I own 2 evolvers (one desktop and one mono keyboard) and used to own a prophet 08. The knobs/encoders suck (and have a high failure rate… look it up), the endcheeks are secured poorly and the wood is cheap, AND the actual circuitry is made up of cheap parts.
so, yeah… that is exactly what I said.
That doesn't mean DSI makes bad instruments… I love my evolvers… they just aren't built as well as a Moog or Virus or Oberheim…
THIS!! So much this!!!
edit: and the front panel label is a big sticker.
..a bargain for a forgotten wet dream come true!
Just 7 grand getting the best 8-voice ever – in tune!!
Guys, sell your wife’s car on eBay and go for it!!!