Pricing and availability

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Plugin Boutique
4.7 (19)
$50.00 $30.00 $20.00 · All time low
Sweetwater
$49.99 $29.99 $20.00 · All time low

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Brainworx bx_oberhausen". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Step into the world of unparalleled sonic possibilities with the Brainworx bx_oberhausen, a synth plugin that masterfully captures the essence of an iconic analog synthesizer while pushing the boundaries of digital music production. Crafted by Brainworx Audio, known for their expertise in analog audio equipment, this plugin is designed to deliver a rich and complex analog sound that is both nostalgic and innovative.

At the heart of the bx_oberhausen is the Tolerance Modeling Technology (TMT), a proprietary feature that introduces subtle variations in frequencies and phases across its 32 polyphonic voices, mimicking the natural nuances of analog hardware. This means each note you play can exhibit slight tonal differences, just like the vintage instruments that inspired it. Combine this with a powerful unison mode, and you'll achieve a sonic depth and width that other virtual instruments can only dream of.

The bx_oberhausen also incorporates exclusive M/S Technology, a feature that allows for precise control over which parts of your sound pass through the filter section, enabling innovative stereo processing and bass foundation techniques. With an extensive modulation matrix, integrated effects section including the revered Mäag AIR BAND®, and a versatile arpeggiator with adjustable swing, this plugin is a playground for sound designers seeking to craft unique and dynamic compositions.

Whether you’re a seasoned producer or a hobbyist musician, the bx_oberhausen offers a robust toolkit to explore new musical territories, while still paying homage to the classic sounds of the past.

Key Features:

  • Full analog modeling with polyphony up to 32 voices
  • TMT — Brainworx patent-registered “Tolerance Modeling Technology”
  • Unison mode for rich, complex analog sound
  • M/S Technology for advanced stereo processing
  • Extensive modulation matrix for versatile sound design
  • Built-in effects section with Brainworx and Mäag AIR BAND®
  • Frequency Modulation (FM) capabilities
  • Comprehensive arpeggiator with adjustable swing
  • In-Plugin Preset Management with NKS support, featuring over 300 presets

Product specs

Software Type Synthesizer
Platform Mac, PC
Upgrade/Full Full
Download/Boxed Download
Bit Depth 64-bit
Format AAX, AU, VST2, VST3
Hardware Requirements - Mac Intel Core 2 Duo or higher, 4GB RAM or more recommended
Hardware Requirements - PC Intel Core 2 Duo / AMD Athlon 64 X2 or higher, 4GB RAM or more recommended
OS Requirements - Mac macOS 11 or later
OS Requirements - PC Windows 10 or later

FAQs

Is the Brainworx bx_oberhausen synthesizer plugin polyphonic?

Yes, the Brainworx bx_oberhausen is a polyphonic synthesizer plugin, allowing for rich, layered soundscapes and complex chord structures.

What platforms is the Brainworx bx_oberhausen compatible with?

The Brainworx bx_oberhausen is compatible with both Mac and PC platforms, supporting formats like AAX, AU, VST2, and VST3.

What are the minimum system requirements for running the Brainworx bx_oberhausen on a Mac?

To run the Brainworx bx_oberhausen on a Mac, you need macOS 11 or later, an Intel Core 2 Duo processor or higher, and at least 4GB of RAM.

Can the Brainworx bx_oberhausen be used with popular DAWs like Ableton Live and Pro Tools?

Yes, the Brainworx bx_oberhausen supports AAX, AU, VST2, and VST3 formats, making it compatible with popular DAWs such as Ableton Live and Pro Tools.

What makes the Brainworx bx_oberhausen unique compared to other synth plugins?

The Brainworx bx_oberhausen is known for its accurate emulation of classic analog synthesizers, offering a warm, vintage sound with modern digital convenience.

Plugin Alliance

Plugin Alliance

Brainworx bx_oberhausen Trailer

Video thumbnail for Brainworx bx_oberhausen Trailer by Plugin Alliance

Brainworx bx_oberhausen Trailer

Plugin Alliance

Plugin Alliance

Video thumbnail for bx_oberhausen Walkthrough | Plugin Alliance by Plugin Alliance

bx_oberhausen Walkthrough | Plugin Alliance

Plugin Alliance

Plugin Alliance

Video thumbnail for Brainworx bx_oberhausen vs Arturia SEM V review: do you need both? by Starsky Carr

Brainworx bx_oberhausen vs Arturia SEM V review: do you need both?

Starsky Carr

Starsky Carr

Video thumbnail for bx_oberhausen | New Synth from Brainworx | Overview and Sounds by Green Light Sound

bx_oberhausen | New Synth from Brainworx | Overview and Sounds

Green Light Sound

Green Light Sound

Video thumbnail for Brainworx bx_oberhausen | Plugin Alliance by Plugin Alliance

Brainworx bx_oberhausen | Plugin Alliance

Plugin Alliance

Plugin Alliance

Video thumbnail for bx_oberhausen Overview by Plugin Alliance

bx_oberhausen Overview

Plugin Alliance

Plugin Alliance

Video thumbnail for Brainworx Bx_Oberhausen Review | The Last Analog Based VST Synth You'll Ever Need by Prod By ThatGuyFace

Brainworx Bx_Oberhausen Review | The Last Analog Based VST Synth You'll Ever Need

Prod By ThatGuyFace

Prod By ThatGuyFace

Video thumbnail for Brainworx Bx Oberhausen | Presets Preview by Simon Le Grec

Brainworx Bx Oberhausen | Presets Preview

Simon Le Grec

Simon Le Grec

Video thumbnail for Brainworx bx_oberhausen - analogue synthesizer plugin demo by Alfonse

Brainworx bx_oberhausen - analogue synthesizer plugin demo

Alfonse

Alfonse

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Brainworx bx_oberhausen.

Comparisons

  • Owners compare bx_oberhausen to IK Multimedia Syntronik OX-a, noting that Syntronik offers deep-sampled real Oberheim sounds for reference.

    Source
  • Some users prefer Arturia's interface and presets, finding them more professional and comfortable compared to bx_oberhausen.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The bx_oberhausen plugin is praised for its ability to replicate the Oberheim OB-X sound, with features like extra polyphony and unison, but lacks extensive modulation options.

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  • The filter selection knob is unintuitive, with a click for BP and a continuous mix between LP and HP, complicating precise LP selection.

    Source
  • The plugin includes additional features such as effects and increased polyphony, expanding its capabilities beyond a standard Oberheim SEM emulation.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The plugin is ideal for creating vintage-sounding basses, leads, pads, and brass, making it suitable for modern EDM when paired with contemporary effects.

    Source
  • The synth is frequently used for creating 80s-style synthwave arps and pads, effectively capturing the era's sound.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Initially released as a premium plugin, bx_oberhausen's steep discount to $39.99 is seen as a significant value, particularly for those who missed the original higher price.

    Source
  • It's suggested to never pay more than $40 for this synth, although it is considered by some to be worth $100 for its sound quality.

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  • Owners recommend waiting for discounts, citing a special $14.99 offer that enhances the plugin's appeal significantly.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The plugin leverages modern hardware capabilities, which may lead to higher CPU usage compared to older software emulations.

    Source
  • High CPU usage is frequently mentioned, suggesting users may need to manage resources effectively to minimize issues like audio crackle.

    Source

User experience

  • While factory presets are available, the simple nature of the synth means it might not see as many third-party presets as other popular synths like Serum or Sylenth.

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  • Owners find the layout somewhat confusing, particularly the separation of LFO controls and the filter mode source selector not being under modulation controls.

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  • Multiple users praise the sound quality, comparing it favorably to top-tier synths like U-He and Massive X.

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Critic Reviews

Brainworx bx_oberhausen review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Brainworx's bx_oberhausen offers a rich, fat analog sound reminiscent of the classic Oberheim SEM, showcasing impressive versatility with features like Tolerance Modeling Technology for added authenticity. However, its CPU demands can be hefty, and at a full price of $249, it may feel steep compared to competitors. While it's a solid debut for Brainworx in the virtual instrument arena, potential buyers might want to keep an eye out for discounts to assess true value.

Review: Brainworx bx_oberhausen

musictech.com

Brainworx bx_oberhausen is a remarkable blend of classic and contemporary synth design, boasting extensive modulation options and an impressive effects rack that enhances its rich, lush sounds. While it offers a stunning emulation of the original SEM sound, it also incorporates modern features like polyphony and Unison mode, making it versatile for today’s music. However, some presets may dominate mixes, which could be a concern for those seeking balance. Overall, this synth is a fantastic choice for newcomers to SEM emulations, though existing users of similar software might find it less compelling.

positive

Review: bx_oberhausen - Everything Recording

everythingrecording.com

Brainworx's bx_oberhausen emerges as a powerful tribute to the legendary Oberheim SEM, featuring an intuitive interface and stellar sound design capabilities. With thoughtful layout and impressive presets, it invites both nostalgic exploration and modern creativity. However, the absence of an EQ section and a sub-oscillator may leave some users wanting more depth in low-end enhancement. Despite these minor drawbacks, bx_oberhausen stands tall in the synth landscape, combining classic elements with innovative features that will excite any sound designer. A must-try for those seeking to capture the essence of vintage synths while pushing sonic boundaries.

positive

4.0 out of 5

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Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

1 alternative for Brainworx bx_oberhausen, curated by the Equipboard community.

Arturia Oberheim SEM V

$119.00 - $149.00

similar sound

Arturia Oberheim SEM V is another take on the legendary Oberheim® SEM.

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