The Official Sequential/Oberheim Forum
SEQUENTIAL/DSI => OB-6 => Topic started by: Count Sound on February 19, 2016, 08:38:06 AM
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I own the Prophet 6 and love it. I went nuts when I heard about the OB-6, and preordered immediately. Now listening to comparisons (only hearing OB-6 from internet videos) the OB-6 sounds fantastic, but the two synths are sounding very much alike to me. I know they have a lot of different things under the hood, but I'm wondering if anyone has opinions if they are different enough to justify the purchase and owning both? Sounds like much of what the OB-6 can do could be recreated not exactly but very similarly on the Prophet 6. Any thoughts are much appreciated.
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There very similar imo too....
The comparison video I seen recently shown there similarities in basic tone but that could have told a lot more if some proper Gainstaging of compared sounds had been considered (from the point where he comments on how hot OB can get when pushed into the filter there not comparible imo) also curious if that huge level difference (he says he needs to back off OB about half way to match P6) is an intended analog thing or something that can change with an OS? Also matching sequences would have been more honest than having bum notes on one and not the other (always on the p6 I think) !! All that ads to a perception of one being better (louder is perceived as better etc and feeds the trolls)
All that said I'm yet to hear huge differences to justify me having both, unles you can chain them 8) then I'm in. I think They sound similar enough for this to work well and I'll guess they work very similar inside too. But don't know.
I hope so as I am kind of ever so slightly gutted I never knew about OB6 as I dont know now which one id have chosen (being so similar)
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- Pads on OB do seems slightly smudgy/smeared in the mids (nice for pads) compared to a clearer direct tone in the p6 (more string like) but this could totally be fx and I think a phaser (OB fx) would do this. Conversely the difference in fx could be a problem in poly chaining.... Probably need to keep em dry.
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There are not really any useful comparisons online, but from what I've heard in the demos, the OB-6 sounds pretty different from the Prophet-6, basically just as much as the classic Oberheims (OB-8 and/or OB-X) sounded different from the Prophet-5. To me it seems as if the OB-6 fills the frequency spectrum that can make the Prophets sound brassy at times (you mentioned above that the mids appear to be less pronounced on the Prophet). And then they have totally different filters that will in turn respond different to any sort of modulation. I too was somewhat skeptic in the beginning, but after having listened to all those OB-6 demos out there, I think those two are basically built to complement each other.
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I think staged comparisons have limited usefulness. The aim there is to get something to sound as close as possible to something else. Usually by reverting to basic tones. I do not intend to use an OB-6 to emulate a Prophet 6 (or an OB-X for that matter). I am far more interested in what the OB-6 sounds like on its own, as an instrument, used to its full extent.
The audio path is different (oscillators, filters, gain etc), so the OB-6 is bound to behave differently to the Prophet 6, when programmed and played dynamically. But it will probably sound closer to the Prophet 6 than to a vintage synth with totally different electronics. Expecting a vastly different sound character compared to the Prophet 6 is probably unrealistic. But I like the sound of the Prophet 6. More of the same with a different flavour and different options is a good thing. That should make them easier to integrate sonically, and easier to use interchangeably.
What I miss most from the Prophet 6 is not a different sound but more options, more voices and more octaves. I was considering two Prophet 6s, but an OB-6 is likely a much better companion. It means losing poly chaining, but that is a hassle compared to having more onboard voices anyway. I regard the Prophet 6 + OB-6 as a single two-keyboard (organ style), multitimbral, polyphonic setup.
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To me it seems as if the OB-6 fills the frequency spectrum that can make the Prophets sound brassy at times (you mentioned above that the mids appear to be less pronounced on the Prophet) And then they have totally different filters that will in turn respond different to any sort of modulation.
I think those two are basically built to complement each other.
Fair points. Just not sure how much of the differences I hear are from different the effects as the best and most different pad patches I've heard are pretty wet.
- I meant the prophet had more pronounced mids tho whereas OB a bit more smudgy. Could totally be the different fx the OB has.
Thing is I hear quite a big difference between vintage prophet and oberheims (maybe I'm comparing the wrong ones) but also it could totally just be the programming. The difference for now between the new ones I'll probably not realise till I try myself. Nord A1 can do the round warm pads all day and then some but I'd potential let that go for an OB 6 if I can't get over the gas. :)
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I think staged comparisons have limited usefulness. The aim there is to get something to sound as close as possible to something else. Usually by reverting to basic tones. I do not intend to use an OB-6 to emulate a Prophet 6 (or an OB-X for that matter). I am far more interested in what the OB-6 sounds like on its own, as an instrument, used to its full extent"
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The difference in the comparison was to compare the 2, so playing bum notes and having one sound thicker because it was driven has limited usefulness I'll agree.
How would you compare without hearing similar patches....
Surely there needs to be a big sonic difference to decide wether or not they cover the same ground.
Obviously this doesn't matter if you just want another synth to explore similar territories but for the time being, I'd need a bit more to justify it. Not that I don't want it to be justified. :)
Lots of the programmed on sounds I can hear in my p6 (it ain't night and day)
I dont think I considered the originals sounded similar till now (do they to you?) but that could be my perception (and the programs I've heard)
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"The audio path is different (oscillators, filters, gain etc), so the OB-6 is bound to behave differently to the Prophet 6, when programmed and played dynamically. But it will probably sound closer to the Prophet 6 than to a vintage synth with totally different electronics. Expecting a vastly different sound character compared to the Prophet 6 is probably unrealistic."
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I'm not really interested in comparing to vintage, just between the 2 and if it's unrealistic they sound very different it begs the question do I need this. :)
Im yet to hear enough to outright say "yes my music needs both" but I've heard enough to make me wonder which I prefer.... Like the PO I guess.
There different synths - so to me a comparison should highlight these without any doubt in order for me to know i need both and it isn't gas. To do that you need to be accurate.
It's not obtuse to thoroughly compare these i don't think.... Not like comparing a nord to a vintage synth etc or a virus.
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What I miss most from the Prophet 6 is not a different sound but more options, more voices and more octaves. I was considering two Prophet 6s, but an OB-6 is likely a much better companion. It means losing poly chaining, but that is a hassle compared to having more onboard voices anyway. I regard the Prophet 6 + OB-6 as a single two-keyboard (organ style), multitimbral, polyphonic setup.
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sounds like your pretty much sold mate.... if your thinking of buying 2 prophets anyway and it's not the Extra voices your after OB 6 is an obvious choice for the flavour :)
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The comparison that matters to me is getting my hands on an OB-6 and using my knowledge from the Prophet 6 to see what sounds I can coax out of it. If it feels just like a Prophet 6 that would be kind of a disappointment. I would then be more inclined to get a second Prophet 6 instead for the poly chain. But statements from those with hands-on experience generally indicate that the two sound different in a significant way. Given the difference in components I would be surprised if they sound/feel too similar. But I expect that either could be programmed to sound quite close to the other, at least for a certain range of sounds. Just like a virtual analog can get quite close to a real analog with proper programming. But in my experience it is less effort to get the "right" sound on the analog. Similarly I expect some sounds to come more naturally on one or the other.
As for the OB-6 being justified for an owner of a Prophet 6, that is mostly a personal price/value consideration. Sound wise I think it is justified. But it is twice the expense and twice the space needed. A hypothetical 8 voice, dual filter (Pro 2 style), 5 octave Prophet/OB hybrid would likely be cheaper and easier to justify, but that does not exist, and might not come into existence. A Modal 008 is cheaper than a Prophet 6 + OB-6, but I like the Prophet 6. And unless going modular or vintage, there is not much else to choose from for the next year at least. So for me it is justified. Even if a dream synth comes out in a year I will already have a great setup.
I really look forward to playing bass lines on one while doing leads/chords on the other, without running out of octaves or voices. Doing bass notes on the other keyboard frees up 1-2 voices for the chords. And imagine the power chords possible using both keyboards, layered or octave shifted. Also I'm very eager to dig into the state variable filter, the formant-like voices and the configurable PWM (oscillator 1 OR 2).
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All fair comments.
I know I won't know until I try and by then I'll have enough experience with the P to know for sure.
All good tho.... Still Looking forward to a genuine comparison as trying em out is usually a case of getting a 30 day money back guarantee which isn't ideal sometimes.
Can't just go off programmed patches and online demos, I need to hear the basics.... the main difference with the best sounds I've heard seem to be because of the new fx. Obviously could be well wrong. x
Cheers
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I prefer the Prophet 6. I just find the OB-6 lacks it's own identity. It's just an Oberheim sound in a Prophet 6 body. May as well wait for the OB-6 Desktop.
Plus the OB-6 is a major disappointment. The OBX series could have 8 voices and could do splits and layers so it's difficult to get excited for a 6 voice synth with no splits or layers. They could have done so much more and frankly they should have. I'd sooner get an Tom Oberheim Two Voice Pro than an OB-6. The sequencer alone on that thing trumps any sequencer on any of the DSI gear.
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We have to look at these instruments, not as re-issues, but as new instruments influenced by old instruments. The OB-6, even though it falls far short of an OBX, can still be a superb synthesizer in its own right. The same is true with the Prophet-6.
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From another OB-6 owner:
"Ok first evening w mine. No time to record a video. But the OB6 FAR exceeds expectations!
1. The presets are GOOD. REALLY good. Several stunners. And I've only been through the first 2 banks.
2. It's a bass monster. Significantly more so than the Prophet 6 IMO.
3. It can growl like an OB should. Signature sound/tone.
4. It sounds significantly different than a Prophet 6. Not subtle. VERY different. If you have a Prophet 6 already, you probably want to keep it and get an OB6. If you are choosing between the two...play them first! They don't overlap. The P6 is "cleaner". The OB6 is "creamy" and "raspy".
5. Love the knobs versus the P6, or the P12. They are chunkier. Easy to grab.
6. The filter makes all the difference here. So much diversity. An even resonance which doesn't attenuate the signal it effects. The notch buzzes gloriously.
7. The "Detune" perhaps sounds better than the "Slop" on the P6. Or maybe the Oscillators sound better with it. Either way, much more natural and vintage-analog sounding.
8. Some of the presets make sensational use of the dual bbg delays in very creative ways. Inspirational!
9. Envelopes are quite snappy. Or conversely very slow climbs and falls.
10. The synth has lots of gain. It's a hot signal. Thank God for the separate patch volume.
11. The front panel is much more legible than the P6. And the layout is more logical. Having the effects to the right side for example follows the signal flow better.
I'm only scratching the surface here. Just a few hours with it. I know it's honeymoon stage. But I'm getting instant gratification in a way I didn't w the P6. And I love my P6!!! So that's really saying something. I have the P6, P12, and now OB6, and the are very different, and compliment each other well. But the OB shines above. It's hard to put into words. But you just hear it as soon as u play and tweak. It's special."
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Thanks for the quick insight! And yes, I reckoned a while ago that it's not really a question of whether one should have a Prophet-6 or an OB-6, but rather both if possible.
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I agree the OB-6 sounds different to all the other DSI synths.
Also it is very loud, jumps out of the speakers when you crank the res.
The factory sounds are excellent, I got totally stuck on patch 07 (then realised it is one of mine!)
The keyboard itself has lovely action and the aftertouch response is just right.
The effects are really good, even with limited editing options it is just so damn convenient to have them built in. I can't imagine needing to us eternal effects much.
The knob caps are great and the production model has dots which the demo unit did not. Very useful.
I am really enamoured with the OB-6.
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The two boards sound very different. I actually find the ob6 to be much clearer and more brilliant sounding while the p6 is more dense and creamy. Kind of like ob6 is API and P6 is Neve. Better yet, ob6 is jazz bass and p6 is P bass! I bought both!
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There's some overlap. But as far as that goes, the P-6 and the OB-6 are honoring their legacies quite nicely. If you go searching for the sonic differences, you'll find them. If you just need big ballsy analog, there's plenty of that on offer from either instrument.
e
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Another comparison:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JHB5gEL4PGg
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I have received my OB-6 and have played with it for a couple of evenings. It's a damn fine synth! Both in looks and in sound. I have it stacked on top of my Prophet-6. They both sound great alone but really excel together. I regard them almost as one instrument with two different flavours. They are similar enough to integrate easily but still pleasantly different. I've read the Prophet-6 described as a clear wall of sound while the OB-6 is more dreamy and fuzzy. I think that is an excellent description. Those flavours really complement each other.
I don't see the point in someone selling the Prophet-6 to get the OB-6, unless absolutely sure about the sound. For the moment I actually prefer the tone of the Prophet-6 if I could only have one. But that might change as the OB-6 grows on me. The OB-6 seems to have more potential for fun. Also, for poly chaining either I would prefer to chain two Prophet-6s to extend its powerful wall of sound. 12 voices of that would just be insane. I think the OB-6 would not benefit as much from poly chaining. But I have much to learn and discover with this pair. They both sound and feel so alive compared to contemporary synths!
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The OB6 sound appeals to me as it seems slightly less tightly regulated than the P6. When you play chords, the voices have a pleasant movement to them compared to the P6, and this is probably due to the oscillator design. Plus that 2-pole notch filter sounds lovely, and makes a nice alternative to the usual 4-pole low-pass sound.
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Maybe it is something in my audio interface but I found that the sawtooth oscillators have different ramps between the P-6 and OB-6. I do not remember which of them is inverted and which is not but if you set up a simple 1 oscillator sawtooth patch on both with slight detuning and play the simultaneously you get the same type of PWM that you get on the Minimoog. Maybe an obscure trick but one I found interesting, nonetheless.
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I have received my OB-6 and have played with it for a couple of evenings. It's a damn fine synth! Both in looks and in sound. I have it stacked on top of my Prophet-6. They both sound great alone but really excel together. I regard them almost as one instrument with two different flavours. They are similar enough to integrate easily but still pleasantly different. I've read the Prophet-6 described as a clear wall of sound while the OB-6 is more dreamy and fuzzy. I think that is an excellent description. Those flavours really complement each other.
I don't see the point in someone selling the Prophet-6 to get the OB-6, unless absolutely sure about the sound. For the moment I actually prefer the tone of the Prophet-6 if I could only have one. But that might change as the OB-6 grows on me. The OB-6 seems to have more potential for fun. Also, for poly chaining either I would prefer to chain two Prophet-6s to extend its powerful wall of sound. 12 voices of that would just be insane. I think the OB-6 would not benefit as much from poly chaining. But I have much to learn and discover with this pair. They both sound and feel so alive compared to contemporary synths!
Hi Kim Sand link,
Congratulations on your OB-6 !
Do you think the OB-6 is slightly better suited for producing warm, lush Pad sounds compared to the Prophet 6 ?
I have the Prophet 6, and some of the OB-6 pad demos sound warmer, more lush and interesting to my ears than the Prophet 6 Pads. Would you agree on this ?
I plan to add the OB-6 (Desktop model), when it becomes available later this year.
Thanks,
Muziksculp
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I would say it's the opposite having both here. The P6 is the one thats definitely 'warmer' as it has more low mid thickness and presence. The OB6 is more aggressive. Not that its cold, far from it, but the 12db filter has a totally different character that makes it have a more of a strong texture- the P6 can blend more easily whilst the OB always makes its presence felt, even on more subtle sounds. The nature of the filter means that pads in particular always contain more high end even when the filter is closed a little in LPF mode.
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Hi Kim Sand link,
Congratulations on your OB-6 !
Do you think the OB-6 is slightly better suited for producing warm, lush Pad sounds compared to the Prophet 6 ?
I have the Prophet 6, and some of the OB-6 pad demos sound warmer, more lush and interesting to my ears than the Prophet 6 Pads. Would you agree on this ?
I plan to add the OB-6 (Desktop model), when it becomes available later this year.
Thanks,
Muziksculp
Musziksculp,
I'd disagree and say that the OB-6 is warmer -- the warmest of the DSI synths. By warmer, I don't mean lowest pitch. You can have FM bass tones that are nothing but bass yet sterile as hell (as well they are supposed to be).
Warmer is that analogue sound that combines lots of factors -- but primarily it is the multitude of minute imperfections in the analogue signal chain that just make the sound more "alive". By that measure, the OB-6 really hits the mark. By no means am I taking away from the P6, she is a wonderfully creative beast.
Cheers.
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Hi Kim Sand link,
Congratulations on your OB-6 !
Do you think the OB-6 is slightly better suited for producing warm, lush Pad sounds compared to the Prophet 6 ?
I have the Prophet 6, and some of the OB-6 pad demos sound warmer, more lush and interesting to my ears than the Prophet 6 Pads. Would you agree on this ?
I plan to add the OB-6 (Desktop model), when it becomes available later this year.
Thanks,
Muziksculp
Musziksculp,
I'd disagree and say that the OB-6 is warmer -- the warmest of the DSI synths. By warmer, I don't mean lowest pitch. You can have FM bass tones that are nothing but bass yet sterile as hell (as well they are supposed to be).
Warmer is that analogue sound that combines lots of factors -- but primarily it is the multitude of minute imperfections in the analogue signal chain that just make the sound more "alive". By that measure, the OB-6 really hits the mark. By no means am I taking away from the P6, she is a wonderfully creative beast.
Cheers.
Hi Shaw,
That is the kind of feedback I'm reading on other Forums as well. Basically, that the OB-6 has a more 'Alive and Warmer' (Kind of that Fuzzy-Analog) sound when compared with the Prophet 6.
I already have the Prophet 6, and plan to purchase the OB-6 when it is available in Desktop Model. (Don't need another keyboard in my studio).
Actually, I do hear that unique OB-6 warm, fuzzy-analog quality in some of the videos, which I don't think the Prophet 6 is able to do, especially in the Pads/Strings, which did get my attention. I think the P6 and OB-6 will complement each other very nicely.
Thanks,
Muziksculp
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Hi Shaw,
That is the kind of feedback I'm reading on other Forums as well. Basically, that the OB-6 has a more 'Alive and Warmer' (Kind of that Fuzzy-Analog) sound when compared with the Prophet 6.
I already have the Prophet 6, and plan to purchase the OB-6 when it is available in Desktop Model. (Don't need another keyboard in my studio).
Actually, I do hear that unique OB-6 warm, fuzzy-analog quality in some of the videos, which I don't think the Prophet 6 is able to do, especially in the Pads/Strings, which did get my attention. I think the P6 and OB-6 will complement each other very nicely.
Thanks,
Muziksculp
You're going to be quite happy with the 2 of them side by side, they are complimentary indeed.
Cheers!
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Hi Shaw,
That is the kind of feedback I'm reading on other Forums as well. Basically, that the OB-6 has a more 'Alive and Warmer' (Kind of that Fuzzy-Analog) sound when compared with the Prophet 6.
I already have the Prophet 6, and plan to purchase the OB-6 when it is available in Desktop Model. (Don't need another keyboard in my studio).
Actually, I do hear that unique OB-6 warm, fuzzy-analog quality in some of the videos, which I don't think the Prophet 6 is able to do, especially in the Pads/Strings, which did get my attention. I think the P6 and OB-6 will complement each other very nicely.
Thanks,
Muziksculp
You're going to be quite happy with the 2 of them side by side, they are complimentary indeed.
Cheers!
Thanks for the feedback.
Yes, I think so too. I'm very excited, and looking forward to add the OB-6 Desktop to my setup.
Cheers,
Muziksculp
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I just went through the process of choosing between these synths and want to re-iterate a few points from above.
Firstly, the only real way to pick which one is best is to try the two out for oneself. “Warmer” is pretty subjective; I find the Prophet warmer myself, and plenty analog. But I wouldn’t recommend anyone spend $3,000 based on my choice of adjectives any more than I’d recommend they do so based on someone’s up-thread.
I do however believe that the Prophet 6 and OB-6 are pretty true to VCO-based Sequential Circuits and Oberheim synths respectively. If you prefer classic synths by one brand over the other, you can pretty much guess which one you’ll choose here. My strongest association with Oberheim is the Matrix 6 which was one of my first synths. The OB-6 is a way better synth, but I liked and disliked all the same parts of the OB-6 as I did the Matrix (love the synth choir pads and basses, kind of ambivalent about many of the simpler sounds).
Mind you, I had listened to all the demos and was ready to buy the OB-6, but sitting for 1-2 hours and playing one after the other, I really was far more drawn into the Prophet. For me I was looking for a very solid go-to synth. The Prophet was more like the sort of synth I’d try first when I needed a synth part, while the OB was more the thing I’d look to for certain purposes, or for something a little different.
Again, that’s my taste, and you really can’t go wrong with either. But do whatever you can to play them first, if possible, because it’s the best way to know what’s right for you.
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I just went through the process of choosing between these synths and want to re-iterate a few points from above.
Firstly, the only real way to pick which one is best is to try the two out for oneself. “Warmer” is pretty subjective; I find the Prophet warmer myself, and plenty analog. But I wouldn’t recommend anyone spend $3,000 based on my choice of adjectives any more than I’d recommend they do so based on someone’s up-thread.
I do however believe that the Prophet 6 and OB-6 are pretty true to VCO-based Sequential Circuits and Oberheim synths respectively. If you prefer classic synths by one brand over the other, you can pretty much guess which one you’ll choose here. My strongest association with Oberheim is the Matrix 6 which was one of my first synths. The OB-6 is a way better synth, but I liked and disliked all the same parts of the OB-6 as I did the Matrix (love the synth choir pads and basses, kind of ambivalent about many of the simpler sounds).
Mind you, I had listened to all the demos and was ready to buy the OB-6, but sitting for 1-2 hours and playing one after the other, I really was far more drawn into the Prophet. For me I was looking for a very solid go-to synth. The Prophet was more like the sort of synth I’d try first when I needed a synth part, while the OB was more the thing I’d look to for certain purposes, or for something a little different.
Again, that’s my taste, and you really can’t go wrong with either. But do whatever you can to play them first, if possible, because it’s the best way to know what’s right for you.
+1 -- Well said
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Again, that’s my taste, and you really can’t go wrong with either. But do whatever you can to play them first, if possible, because it’s the best way to know what’s right for you.
This can't be emphasized enough.
Despite that, I share your preference. I'm amazed though by how quickly the Prophet-6 became sort of overshadowed by the OB-6 - at least in terms of seemingly popular perception.
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And don't be surprised if the same thing happens to the OB-6 as soon as DSI comes out with the next new synthesizer. Around and around it goes.
I'd like to put in a good word for sticking with one instrument, fairly mastering it, drawing out from it what you can, and letting all the new instrument hype swirl around, without getting pulled into it or distracted by it. There's plenty of temptation for the synthesist to be constantly jumping at the latest new products, familiarizing himself or herself with its features, and producing only instrument demos, rather than actual matured pieces of music.
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And don't be surprised if the same thing happens to the OB-6 as soon as DSI comes out with the next new synthesizer. Around and around it goes.
I'd like to put in a good word for sticking with one instrument, fairly mastering it, drawing out from it what you can, and letting all the new instrument hype swirl around, without getting distracted by it from making music.
Also well said.... +1
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Yeah, the OB-6 being newest and an unusual collaboration, it’s no surprise people are excited. I’m sure the hype is cyclical, but even when it quiets down with the next DSI poly, I bet both these synths will be desired long beyond when they stop getting manufactured.
+1 to the idea of buying a synth, whatever it is, and learning it inside out. The great thing with P-6 or OB-6 is that their parameters are so accessible that it’s much easier to learn and grow with them. More menu-laden synths encourage me to stick closer to presets, where I enjoy just setting the P-6 to default and programming sounds from scratch.
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I'm amazed though by how quickly the Prophet-6 became sort of overshadowed by the OB-6 - at least in terms of seemingly popular perception.
And now, new Ob-6 demos have also slowed to a trickle. I'm always waiting for the hype over each new instrument to pass and finally mature into serious compositions and performances. Hopefully, both the P-6 and OB-6 will soon reappear as musical instruments to be played, rather than as toys to be demonstrated.
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I'm amazed though by how quickly the Prophet-6 became sort of overshadowed by the OB-6 - at least in terms of seemingly popular perception.
And now, new Ob-6 demos have also slowed to a trickle. I'm always waiting for the hype over each new instrument to pass and finally mature into serious compositions and performances. Hopefully, both the P-6 and OB-6 will reappear soon as instruments to be played, rather than merely demonstrated.
People are getting ready for the Minimoog reissue. ;D
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Does that mean they're already selling their P-6s and OB-6s? :o
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Does that mean they're selling their already P-6s and OB-6s? :o
The OB-6 has been available since March already - it's almost vintage by now. So yeah, away with it.
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As soon as those little strips of clear plastic are peeled off the black keys, it's more or less vintage. ;D
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The factory sounds are excellent, I got totally stuck on patch 07 (then realised it is one of mine!)
Haha. That was the sound that really grabbed me when I got to demo one in a store recently. So much so that I noted down all the settings (thanks for adding that dot to the display DSI) and recreated it on my P6 at home.
Overall I really liked the OB-6, although it sounded very '80s to my ears. I think I prefer the P6 but if the British public hadn't voted to screw the economy >:( I'd probably be looking out for a desktop OB-6.
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I simply cannot decide between the two, and the amount of time I've spent going back and forth, reading reviews and watching demos is pretty silly now! :o
I've played them both briefly in stores, but never side by side. Don't think I'll get that opportunity soon.
I don't know what the point of this post is. Wish I could have them both!
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I simply cannot decide between the two, and the amount of time I've spent going back and forth, reading reviews and watching demos is pretty silly now! :o
I've played them both briefly in stores, but never side by side. Don't think I'll get that opportunity soon.
I don't know what the point of this post is. Wish I could have them both!
You can get both filters in the Pro-2!
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I simply cannot decide between the two, and the amount of time I've spent going back and forth, reading reviews and watching demos is pretty silly now! :o
I've played them both briefly in stores, but never side by side. Don't think I'll get that opportunity soon.
I don't know what the point of this post is. Wish I could have them both!
You can get both filters in the Pro-2!
Haha, thanks, but I'm after a poly (that will hopefully be a 'forever' keeper) :-)
I'll be selling a DX7, D50 and Moog Little Phatty to raise funds - it will go with my Juno 60 and Yamaha Motif 6 Classic....
;D
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Did you ultimately decide on getting an Ob6?
I have both. The P6 is great for soundtracks (all by itself sometimes). The Ob6 is great as an element in music. I have to give up the P6 due to tech issues (w/in return period) and considering replacing with same (4th try) or getting the recently announced Rev2.
I think the Ob6 would be all i need if the filter pole count was switchable and there was a triangle on first oscillator. The SEM filter is very limiting and always has some higher frequency "hair" coming out.
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Echoing what TacticalHamster said, I think Prophets are more for sound design or soundtrack work and Oberheims are more for performance and band situations. I say this because looking at the gear lists for synth based soundtracks, there are loads of Prophet based soundtracks and only a few Oberheim ones. Even still most soundtracks that have the Oberheim also had a Prophet (5 or 10). I think the only soundtracks that I can think of where an Oberheim was the main synth was Queen's Flash Gordon soundtrack(OBXa and Imperial Bösendorfer Grand Piano with 97 keys instead of 88, having an extra octave on the low range) and Rob Walsh's score for Revenge Of The Ninja.
I've always gravitated towards Prophets personally. It just depends on what you want to do with the synth.
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Hi guys,
I still haven't purchased because I'm waiting for my gear to sell, and was also waiting to see if there was a new DSI synth at NAMM that I'm after.
And I still haven't decided - I keep flipping between them. At the moment, I favour the Prophet-6, in about two hours more of YouTube watching, I'll probably switch to the OB-6!
Most of the artists I like and want the sounds of - early 80s British new wave artists - used more of the Prophet-5 kind of sound. Sure there are exceptions, always.
The Oberheim sound, to me, was always a very 'American' sound, and all the demos are backing that up for me.
So, the OB-6 seems to sound more 'vintage' out the box, which is what I want, but my brain is telling me that it's more of an American 80s sound, rather than the British sound I'm after, which I think might be more suited to a Prophet-6.
In all honesty, there's just something about the 'Prophet' name which pulls me, but on all these forums (well maybe not this one!) there seems to be a huge majority of people who prefer the OB-6.
Yes, I realise it's the person not the gear and would be happy with either, but it's such a big investment for me, I've researched it to death!
Anyway, I'm enjoying reading everyone's views on this thread/forum, both are fantastic synths!
Cheers,
Ed
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Hi guys,
I still haven't purchased because I'm waiting for my gear to sell, and was also waiting to see if there was a new DSI synth at NAMM that I'm after.
And I still haven't decided - I keep flipping between them. At the moment, I favour the Prophet-6, in about two hours more of YouTube watching, I'll probably switch to the OB-6!
Most of the artists I like and want the sounds of - early 80s British new wave artists - used more of the Prophet-5 kind of sound. Sure there are exceptions, always.
The Oberheim sound, to me, was always a very 'American' sound, and all the demos are backing that up for me.
So, the OB-6 seems to sound more 'vintage' our the box, which is what I want, but my brain is telling me that it's more of an American 80s sound, rather than the British sound I'm after, which I think might be more suited to a Prophet-6.
In all honesty, there's just something about the 'Prophet' name which pulls me, but on all these forums (well maybe not this one!) there seems to be a huge majority of people who prefer the OB-6.
Yes, I realise it's the person not the gear and would be happy with either, but it's such a big investment for me, I've researched it to death!
Anyway, I'm enjoying reading everyone's views on this thread/forum, both are fantastic synths!
Cheers,
Ed
What I noticed is a Prophet has a wider sonic pallet. You can really shape the sound to sound like anything but the OB-6 will always have that Oberheim Buzzsaw sound. Listen to even a basic saw wave and you can her the OB-6 has more grit and fizz. The Prophet is more lush but can get fuzzy as well with tweaking.
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Hi guys,
I still haven't purchased because I'm waiting for my gear to sell, and was also waiting to see if there was a new DSI synth at NAMM that I'm after.
And I still haven't decided - I keep flipping between them. At the moment, I favour the Prophet-6, in about two hours more of YouTube watching, I'll probably switch to the OB-6!
Most of the artists I like and want the sounds of - early 80s British new wave artists - used more of the Prophet-5 kind of sound. Sure there are exceptions, always.
The Oberheim sound, to me, was always a very 'American' sound, and all the demos are backing that up for me.
So, the OB-6 seems to sound more 'vintage' out the box, which is what I want, but my brain is telling me that it's more of an American 80s sound, rather than the British sound I'm after, which I think might be more suited to a Prophet-6.
In all honesty, there's just something about the 'Prophet' name which pulls me, but on all these forums (well maybe not this one!) there seems to be a huge majority of people who prefer the OB-6.
Yes, I realise it's the person not the gear and would be happy with either, but it's such a big investment for me, I've researched it to death!
Anyway, I'm enjoying reading everyone's views on this thread/forum, both are fantastic synths!
Cheers,
Ed
I have both in case you have some questions.
I wasn't a big fan of fake brass sounds notorious to oberheim. But, I bought the OB6 anyway to see if it could fit in with the P6 and other synths.
The demos online really only touch the vintage Oberheim sounds. There arent a lot of examples showing what else can be done with it, which is massive.
I am a Prophet guy. I have always been (soundtracks, new wave, goth music, etc). The cold and dark sound of the prophet has always been alluring.
With that said:
I have had three(3) faulty P6s in a row. I'm returning the last one and not replacing it again. It's infuriating for the money to have something so dodgy. I don't care if someone replies and says they've had zero issues, I have...3 times. So has a local studio (returning their second). A support rep at a well respected pro audio retailer (that I use) said they've had more returns with the P6s lately, as well, as I tried to see what we could do (last case being a faulty keybed).
It is what it is. Maybe they are already on a new run of great P6s. I don't know. These (at least mine) were serials around 4,000 to 4,200. I considered looking for an older serial, but with Rev2 coming out, I'll just wait.
The OB6, however, had an extremely sturdy build quality (knobs are beefy and don't wobble at all, thicker top coat). Sonically they aren't that similar when you consider the Ob's amazing SEM filter and extra mod possibilities.
Learning how to program the OB out of the 80s was a challenge, but it serves a nice palette of sounds. Keep in mind demos are usually overdriving the filter for harmonics. Keeping the OSC at 1/2 will be similar to output volume of P6. Once you pull back the OSC gain, you are in a close Prophet territory.
I am not a fan of the square sub octave (it's only usable in the top half range of octaves), but it's not always needed. The P6 triangle sub is great, and can be used throughout most ranges. Square subs are very limiting to brassy/noisy tones, but they work perfect in those tones needed.
I'm holding out on my P6 needs for the Rev2. I'd recommend listening to samples on SoundCloud. It's cheaper and only real difference (as a negative) is digitally controlled oscillators vs voltage controlled of P6. Add some slop and you'll be in P6 territory.
You don't have to take my advice, but I recommend considering it from a P5/P6 lover and user over the years (P5).
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What I noticed is a Prophet has a wider sonic pallet. You can really shape the sound to sound like anything but the OB-6 will always have that Oberheim Buzzsaw sound. Listen to even a basic saw wave and you can her the OB-6 has more grit and fizz. The Prophet is more lush but can get fuzzy as well with tweaking.
That seems to be my feeling too!
In all honesty, after seeing the REV2 with a 5-octave keyboard, the 4-octave on the OB-6 and Pro-6 really winds me up.... but that is a pointless digression, I suppose :-X
Cheers,
Ed
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Hi guys,
I still haven't purchased because I'm waiting for my gear to sell, and was also waiting to see if there was a new DSI synth at NAMM that I'm after.
And I still haven't decided - I keep flipping between them. At the moment, I favour the Prophet-6, in about two hours more of YouTube watching, I'll probably switch to the OB-6!
Most of the artists I like and want the sounds of - early 80s British new wave artists - used more of the Prophet-5 kind of sound. Sure there are exceptions, always.
The Oberheim sound, to me, was always a very 'American' sound, and all the demos are backing that up for me.
So, the OB-6 seems to sound more 'vintage' out the box, which is what I want, but my brain is telling me that it's more of an American 80s sound, rather than the British sound I'm after, which I think might be more suited to a Prophet-6.
In all honesty, there's just something about the 'Prophet' name which pulls me, but on all these forums (well maybe not this one!) there seems to be a huge majority of people who prefer the OB-6.
Yes, I realise it's the person not the gear and would be happy with either, but it's such a big investment for me, I've researched it to death!
Anyway, I'm enjoying reading everyone's views on this thread/forum, both are fantastic synths!
Cheers,
Ed
I have both in case you have some questions.
I wasn't a big fan of fake brass sounds notorious to oberheim. But, I bought the OB6 anyway to see if it could fit in with the P6 and other synths.
The demos online really only touch the vintage Oberheim sounds. There arent a lot of examples showing what else can be done with it, which is massive.
I am a Prophet guy. I have always been (soundtracks, new wave, goth music, etc). The cold and dark sound of the prophet has always been alluring.
With that said:
I have had three(3) faulty P6s in a row. I'm returning the last one and not replacing it again. It's infuriating for the money to have something so dodgy. I don't care if someone replies and says they've had zero issues, I have...3 times. So has a local studio (returning their second). A support rep at a well respected pro audio retailer (that I use) said they've had more returns with the P6s lately, as well, as I tried to see what we could do (last case being a faulty keybed).
It is what it is. Maybe they are already on a new run of great P6s. I don't know. These (at least mine) were serials around 4,000 to 4,200. I considered looking for an older serial, but with Rev2 coming out, I'll just wait.
The OB6, however, had an extremely sturdy build quality (knobs are beefy and don't wobble at all, thicker top coat). Sonically they aren't that similar when you consider the Ob's amazing SEM filter and extra mod possibilities.
Learning how to program the OB out of the 80s was a challenge, but it serves a nice palette of sounds. Keep in mind demos are usually overdriving the filter for harmonics. Keeping the OSC at 1/2 will be similar to output volume of P6. Once you pull back the OSC gain, you are in a close Prophet territory.
I am not a fan of the square sub octave (it's only usable in the top half range of octaves), but it's not always needed. The P6 triangle sub is great, and can be used throughout most ranges. Square subs are very limiting to brassy/noisy tones, but they work perfect in those tones needed.
I'm holding out on my P6 needs for the Rev2. I'd recommend listening to samples on SoundCloud. It's cheaper and only real difference (as a negative) is digitally controlled oscillators vs voltage controlled of P6. Add some slop and you'll be in P6 territory.
You don't have to take my advice, but I recommend considering it from a P5/P6 lover and user over the years (P5).
Thanks so much for this. Still processing it all. Will reply soon, very interesting stuff!
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Skip YouTube unless you want to see functionally how the units operate. Go to SoundCloud for really nicely designed sounds for both. I quickly curated 2 per each for you:
Prophet 6:
https://soundcloud.com/petermmahr/prophet-6-59 (https://soundcloud.com/petermmahr/prophet-6-59)
https://soundcloud.com/petermmahr/sequential-prophet-6-sound-demo (https://soundcloud.com/petermmahr/sequential-prophet-6-sound-demo)
OB-6:
https://soundcloud.com/petermmahr/can-the-ob-6-do-classical-oberheim-sounds (https://soundcloud.com/petermmahr/can-the-ob-6-do-classical-oberheim-sounds)
https://soundcloud.com/petermmahr/ob-6-pad-000 (https://soundcloud.com/petermmahr/ob-6-pad-000)
(this is the same pad from above. It demonstrates the filter and that the aggressive sound you usually hear on OB6 demos is optional.)
Try to listen to these 4 links in order only, for immediate timbre tone comparison, then work your way to others from there.
You'll find the P6 isn't limited to prophet 5 territory, and also that the OB-6 is a modern approach and can tackle more than Van Halen's "Jump".
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I have made a full comparison between both keyboards. This is a "face to face" comparison, mostly demonstrating differences in each category of sound (Lead, Bass, Pad, FX, etc...).
The video is in french, but most of the video let you hear OB6 and P6 and sould be of interest for those who wonder which one they should buy, depending on their musical tastes.
Enjoy !
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtoitoPoMcQ
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Merci beaucoup!
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What I noticed is a Prophet has a wider sonic pallet. You can really shape the sound to sound like anything but the OB-6 will always have that Oberheim Buzzsaw sound. Listen to even a basic saw wave and you can her the OB-6 has more grit and fizz. The Prophet is more lush but can get fuzzy as well with tweaking.
That seems to be my feeling too!
In all honesty, after seeing the REV2 with a 5-octave keyboard, the 4-octave on the OB-6 and Pro-6 really winds me up.... but that is a pointless digression, I suppose :-X
Cheers,
Ed
Honestly, I think 5-Octaves is needed if it's doing splits and layers which the Rev-2 does. With the OB-6 and P6 being only able to have one patch going at a time, 5 octaves is nice to have but not make or break. If it's that detrimental, that's what the module is for....or 2 P6s or OB6s ;).
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I have made a full comparison between both keyboards. This is a "face to face" comparison, mostly demonstrating differences in each category of sound (Lead, Bass, Pad, FX, etc...).
The video is in french, but most of the video let you hear OB6 and P6 and sould be of interest for those who wonder which one they should buy, depending on their musical tastes.
Enjoy !
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtoitoPoMcQ
That video is fantastic. I'm probably biased because I can actually understand French (mostly), but I don't think there's a more poignant comparison video out there! Good job :-)
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To those who own both - which one would you say you prefer for a basic square-wave "hollow" type sound from the oscillators? How about PWM, do you prefer it on one over the other?
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From another OB-6 owner:
2. It's a bass monster. Significantly more so than the Prophet 6 IMO.
3. It can growl like an OB should. Signature sound/tone.
This, in a nutshell, is what grabbed me. In full disclosure, it's my first full analog poly-synth
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To those who own both - which one would you say you prefer for a basic square-wave "hollow" type sound from the oscillators? How about PWM, do you prefer it on one over the other?
Worth pointing out that these are roughly similar (Prophet-6 to OB-6), but that the SEM pulse wave level is roughly half that of the sawtooth (not the case on the OB-6). Keep this in mind as far as gain-staging goes, if you're looking for that filtered pulse sound tending toward triangle.
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I think Prophets are more for sound design or soundtrack work and Oberheims are more for performance and band situations.
Not sure about that... Prophet 5 was by all appearance the go to analog synth around the 80s for prominent bands. Even now I see it mentioned a lot more frequently regarding newer acts.
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Just wanted to say, my prophet 6 is in the 5000 range and build quality has been very impressive. I have owned it for two months now and no problems, all pots are tight and smooth.
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I think Prophets are more for sound design or soundtrack work and Oberheims are more for performance and band situations.
Not sure about that... Prophet 5 was by all appearance the go to analog synth around the 80s for prominent bands. Even now I see it mentioned a lot more frequently regarding newer acts.
In regards to bands
I would say the Prophet 5 is more new Wave/synth pop British type of tones (Gabriel, Collins, Tears For Fears) while the Oberheim is more American sounding (Bob Jovi, Van Halen, Prince)
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I own the Prophet 6 and love it. I went nuts when I heard about the OB-6, and preordered immediately. Now listening to comparisons (only hearing OB-6 from internet videos) the OB-6 sounds fantastic, but the two synths are sounding very much alike to me.
I have a P-6 and would love an OB-6. I have had the P-6 for only about 5 months (since Jan 2018, now it is June 2018) and I am somewhat addicted to it, especially because of the immediacy of Dave's wonderful "constrained" design that he has mentioned in talks. Having an OB6 would give me the equivalent of extra octaves if they sound the same, since they have only 4 octaves each (Grrrr!) and if they sound different, it's even better.
I suspect that certain standard sounds are similar on the OB6 and P6. I mean, there are kind of bog standard synth sounds that are similar across loads of synths - but when you push them, the differences appear. I love pushing the filter of the P6 (mainly the low pass filter, which is just gorgeous in my view) to around 9 and making all kinds of weird resonant sounds. It's a beautifully harmonically rich and playful filter sound. I would guess many of the OB-6 distinctions from the P-6 will be from the different filter type and parameters.
Since I like the interface on the P-6 so much and the OB-6 interface is, if anything a bit neater in that way it is set out, I'm sure I would love the OB-6. I've noticed that the OB-6 can be found cheaper than the P6 sometimes in the UK (though the original price was higher) so maybe I had better get an OB6 soon, before the British Pound currency collapses!
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Prophet 5 is more new Wave/synth pop British type of tones (Gabriel, Collins [Genesis Collins>>>solo imo ;)], Tears For Fears) while the Oberheim is more American sounding (Bon Jovi, Van Halen, Prince)
Suppose it could be because I listen to those particular Brits and not those particular Yanks...
Then again, those examples also speak to the general consensus that Prophets are suited more towards building entire tracks around and that Oberheims are suited more towards leads (or auxiliary elements). Although that's not to say they aren't fully capable of doing both.
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There very similar imo too.
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Also matching sequences would have been more honest than having bum notes on one and not the other (always on the p6 I think) !! All that ads to a perception of one being better (louder is perceived as better etc and feeds the trolls)
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I hope so as I am kind of ever so slightly gutted I never knew about OB6 as I dont know now which one id have chosen (being so similar)
I wouldn't regret having the Prophet-6. The filter is fantastic in my view. I'm talking really about the low pass which I mess around with so much. It's so "musical" to my ears and the resonance is magical. I actually like having the low pass and high pass separate. It gives different options from a variable state filter (OB-6).
I was thinking about a P6 in 2015. They seemed to take along time to reach the UK and there weren't may dealers then and nowhere near that I could actually see one. Then came Jan 2016 NAMM and out pops the OB-6. Then I was stumped. Everybody loved it. "OB6, OB6, OB6!" I think it had better presets on it. I'm surprised the P6 sales didn't go to zero!
I didn't know what to get, so I didn't get either. After all, there could have been a 3rd one coming out in 2017? Eventually I made an exchange in early 2018 and got a P6. I love it. I wouldn't swap it even for an OB6 but I would sure like an OB6 too. If they are similar that would give me the equivalent of an 8 octave keyboard -
and if they are different that gives me two great synths.
I would suspect that they are similar until you push them and then I guess the differences will show.
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I think staged comparisons have limited usefulness. The aim there is to get something to sound as close as possible to something else. Usually by reverting to basic tones. I do not intend to use an OB-6 to emulate a Prophet 6 (or an OB-X for that matter). I am far more interested in what the OB-6 sounds like on its own, as an instrument, used to its full extent.
...
I was considering two Prophet 6s, but an OB-6 is likely a much better companion. It means losing poly chaining, but that is a hassle compared to having more onboard voices anyway. I regard the Prophet 6 + OB-6 as a single two-keyboard (organ style), multitimbral, polyphonic setup.
That sounds like a good option to me and as someone who has one half (the P6), I would very much like to have the OB6 as well.
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I think staged comparisons have limited usefulness. The aim there is to get something to sound as close as possible to something else. Usually by reverting to basic tones. I do not intend to use an OB-6 to emulate a Prophet 6 (or an OB-X for that matter). I am far more interested in what the OB-6 sounds like on its own, as an instrument, used to its full extent....
I regard the Prophet 6 + OB-6 as a single two-keyboard (organ style), multitimbral, polyphonic setup.
I would tend to agree with you as regards the potential of the P6 + OB6 combination. Someone said an OB6 was a waste of money if you already had a P6. this user had a Prophet6 and a Prophet X to name but two, very different I guess.
I guess it would depend on what kind of sounds you prefer to make and hear. I'm really into the analogue I'm English!) synth type sounds and I'm not bothered about sampled sounds. I couldn't afford anything like a Proplhet X anyway.
I got a P6 on a swap deal in January 2018 and I can't leave it alone. Previously, I was leaning towards an OB6 because I thought the presets sounded better in the demos but I think the Dave Smith team had more time to get the OB6 ready for NAMM 2016 compared to the P6 for NAMM 2015. So the OB6 got better presented at the outset in my view.
Now I have the P6, it has its imperfections or limitations but it is meant to be a constrained design as Dave said, like the original Prophet-5. I keep finding sounds that I love when I play it. The modern additions, especially the arpeggiator, effects and inverted envelope amount capability (which is a never mentioned addition but I think it's great) seem to make the instrument much easier to play. I would rather have had 5 octaves though. That aid, the wonderful feel of the controls and the proportions of the P6 fit perfectly to a 4 octave instrument which is compact and neat, much less bulky than a P5 let alone and OB8, JP8, etc.
I have limited funds so maybe I will go for some recording gear instead of another synth - but I will add an OB6 if I can, because I love the sounds that I have heard from the demos and I am highly accustomed to the P6, which is its sister machine.
I would agree with your description of the P6/OB6 combination as being like a 2 manual instrument. I prefer this to a poly chain since I hate using cables and just love to play the things. Having the two as stand alone completely independent units is attractive to me.
As for staged comparisons, you have the limitation that you can really compare only kind of vanilla synth sounds that are common to many machines and is that really so useful? It's where they diverge that is more interesting. I mean a much better comparison would be for someone to create and play sounds on the OB6 that you in no way can do on the P6 - and vice versa. That would be a better guide as to which instrument to choose first.
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I got to a juncture in my search for my next big synth that came down to this question.
Both of these synths sound fantastic. But the OB has that multimode Oberheim filter. Which nothing else quite touches for what it is. I honestly prefer it to the other famous synth filters.
As far as 80's synth bands and synth brands.
The fact that Killing Joke used an OB-X on it's first few albums, and Japan used one on it's last two was a big deciding factor. Those bands are miles apart, getting utterly different sounds from the same model of synth.
Of course an OB6 is not an OB-X.
But if I close my eyes, I can pretend?
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That video did not help now I just want to add a P6 along with my OB6 and 2 P12s :)
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I've had both (and a rev 2). I really didn't love the sound of either prophet (though the P6 was MUCH MUCH better than the Rev2 that only sounds decent when dressed up to the nines in modulation but oh that weak filter and thin tone... ). Prophet 6 had some meat, could do some GREAT sounds, but was kinda stiff/sterile and took a lot of work to dress sounds up at times and even then it felt restrained/small and boxy like it was being held back (could be the VCOs and the AMP stages where you can't drive it).
OB-6? No contest, it's the only one of the 3 that not just stood shoulder to shoulder with my vintage analogs but actually out did them on many things + all the modern features on top.
OB-6 to me feels better (the knobs feel a lot nicer to use even if you think they don't look as posh they are solid/smooth and the larger radius is much better for smaller moves), looks better (the Prophet looks kinda 'posh' and striking but not very cool.. it's a handsome synth but the OB-6 is just cool looking and a lot less formal, more fun looking but still sexy and high quality, but mainly it just sounds better and for me is more fun to use because of the layout and extra sounds possible from the filter/gains and x-mod additions.