GForce Oberheim OB-1 – A Monophonic Classic, Brilliantly Reimagined
The original Oberheim OB-1 holds a revered spot in synthesizer history as the first programmable monophonic analog synth — a forward-thinking design that fused raw sonic character with stage-ready immediacy. Now, GForce Software have brought this legend into the modern studio with an instrument that retains the OB-1’s unmistakable voice while extending its capabilities in thoughtful, musical ways.
A Faithful Recreation with Modern Flair
Vintage Character, Extended Expression
GForce’s OB-1 nails the authoritative tone and aggressive warmth of the original hardware, but this isn’t just a slavish emulation. With added polyphony (up to 16 voices), mono unison, and legato options, it becomes far more versatile — ideal for contemporary workflows that demand both authenticity and flexibility.
X-Modifiers: A Deep Modulation Engine
One of the most compelling additions is the X-Modifier system, which opens up complex modulation possibilities well beyond what the original OB-1 offered. Whether you’re crafting evolving textures or reactive, performance-driven patches, the OB-1 now goes deeper than ever before.
Expanded Synthesis Architecture
The synthesis engine has been subtly and intelligently expanded: expect new waveforms, waveshape modulation, cross-mod, and a high-pass filter — all helping to shape more refined or exploratory timbres without straying from the OB-1’s sonic DNA.
Studio-Ready Effects
Integrated effects — including chorus, delay, and reverb — add dimension and polish without the need for external processing. They’re tastefully voiced and easily adjustable, making it quicker to get a finished sound directly from the plugin.
Performance and Playability
Four macro controls, velocity and aftertouch support, and a highly capable step sequencer (complete with step-specific probability and modulation lanes) make the OB-1 a joy to play live or sequence in the studio. The Macro4-to-sequencer link is a particularly creative touch.
A User Interface That Balances Nostalgia and Usability
The GUI is both visually striking and functionally intuitive. It’s fully resizable and paired with a comprehensive patch browser housing 300+ expertly crafted presets — many of which lean into the OB-1’s raw, in-your-face tone while exploring its newly added features.
Technical Details
Platforms: macOS 10.15+ / Windows 7+ (64-bit)
Plugin Formats: VST2, VST3, AU, AAX, Standalone
System Requirements: 2GHz CPU, 2GB RAM minimum
License: Perpetual, with two simultaneous activations
Delivery: Digital download (email-based activation)
GForce’s OB-1 is more than just a tribute to a synth legend — it’s a full-bodied, sonically rich instrument in its own right. It captures the soul of the OB-1, then hands you tools the original designers could only have dreamed of. For fans of analog grit, vintage synthesis, and modern modular-style control, this is a must-have addition to your virtual rack.
