Sequential OB-6 Synthesizer

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$3,217.26 to $3,590.00 Price Tier: High-end

5.0 (34)

3 Critic Reviews

6 Reviews

All time low price

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

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11 community setups

67 wishlisted

121 saved

Page last updated Jul 03, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated July 3, 2026.

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5.0 (25)

$3,499.99 $3,464.99 $35.00 · All time low

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5.0 (1)

$3,499.99

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5.0 (14)

$3,217.26 20 available New

$1,995.00 14 available Used

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$3,499.99

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$3,499.99

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$3,499.99 $3,464.99 $35.00 · All time low

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4.9 (47)

$3,599.00 $3,590.00 $9.00 · All time low

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£3,400.00

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5.0 (1)

$3,499.99

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Average Price: $3,320

High-end/Boutique

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

In the Synthesizers category, Sequential OB-6 Synthesizer is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

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Description

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The Sequential OB-6 Synthesizer is a powerful musical instrument that blends the charm of analog sound with modern enhancements. Conceived by Dave Smith and Tom Oberheim, this synthesizer is a remarkable fusion of vintage and contemporary sound design. The OB-6 offers six discrete analog voices, each with two oscillators and various waveshapes, providing a wide array of tones. Its 64-step polyphonic sequencer opens up a world of intricate melodic patterns and basslines, while the dual digital effects can transform your sounds into something entirely distinct.

The heart of the OB-6 lies in its state-variable filter, inspired by Oberheim's original SEM filter, which allows you to make dramatic changes to your sounds. In addition, the built-in arpeggiator and sequencer make it easy to create rhythmic patterns and basslines. To add further character to your sounds, the OB-6 includes digital recreations of two of Tom Oberheim's most acclaimed effects: a phase shifter and ring modulator.

The OB-6 is not just about the sound - it's also about the feel. The semi-weighted 49-key keyboard with aftertouch makes it ideal for expressive playing. The mixer section gives you control over levels, panning, and detune per voice for massive, detuned pads and leads.

Key Features: - Designed by Dave Smith and Tom Oberheim - Six discrete analog voices with two oscillators each - 64-step polyphonic sequencer - Dual digital effects: phase shifter and ring modulator - Semi-weighted 49-key keyboard with aftertouch - Mixer section for control over levels, panning, and detune per voice - State-variable filter inspired by Oberheim's original SEM filter - Built-in arpeggiator and sequencer

Product specs

Type	Keyboard Synthesizer with Sequencer
Analog/Digital	Analog
Number of Keys	49
Type of Keys	Semi-weighted
Aftertouch	Yes
Velocity Sensitive	Yes
Other Controllers	Pitchbend, mod wheel
Polyphony	6 Notes
Number of Presets	500 user, 500 factory programs
Effects Types	Analog distortion, reverbs, delay, chorus, flanger, phase, ring modulator
Sequencer	Polyphonic 64-step sequencer
Audio Outputs	2 x 1/4" (left, right)
Headphones	1 x 1/4"
USB	1 x USB Type B
MIDI I/O	In/Out/Thru/USB
Pedal Inputs	1 x volume expression, 1 x sustain, 1 x sequencer start/stop, 1 x filter cutoff expressoin
Mod Matrix	2 Sources, 6 Destinations
Height	4.6"
Width	31.8"
Depth	12.7"
Weight	20.9 lbs.

FAQs

Is the Sequential OB-6 synthesizer fully analog?: Yes, the Sequential OB-6 synthesizer features an all-analog signal path, including 6 voices, each with 2 VCOs and a sub-oscillator, as well as the classic Oberheim 2-pole filter.
How many keys does the Sequential OB-6 have, and are they velocity-sensitive?: The Sequential OB-6 has 49 semi-weighted keys that are both velocity-sensitive and feature aftertouch for expressive playing.
What kind of effects are included in the Sequential OB-6?: The OB-6 includes a variety of effects such as analog distortion, reverbs, delay, chorus, flanger, phase, and a ring modulator.
Can the Sequential OB-6 connect to a computer via USB?: Yes, the OB-6 features a USB Type B port for MIDI connectivity, allowing easy integration with your computer setup.
Does the Sequential OB-6 have a built-in sequencer?: Yes, the OB-6 includes a polyphonic 64-step sequencer, allowing you to create complex sequences directly on the synthesizer.

Videos

Add video

sonicstate

Dave Smith Instruments OB6 Desktop Poly Synth - SonicLAB Review

sonicstate

Oberheim Dave Smith OB-6 Sound Demo (no talking)

Bonedo Synthesizers

DAVE SMITH INSTRUMENTS OBERHEIM OB-6 SYNTH DEMO

once upon a synth

GEOSynths - Synth Show Reviews - DSI (Sequential) OB6

GEOSynths

Sequential OB-6 Part. 2 [Preset Sound] | No Talking |

DKS SYNTH LAB

Evolution Vol 3 - Patches 1 to 25 - Sequential OB6

GEOSynths

Sequential OB-6 Part.3 [Preset Sound] | No Talking |

DKS SYNTH LAB

Sequential OB6 Demo - A Modern Classic?

Nicolas Melis

Evolution Vol 3 - Patches 76 to 100 - Sequential OB6

GEOSynths

Sequential OB6 // First approach

Dexba

Reviews

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PROS

Authentic Oberheim sound, evoking golden age of synths
Intuitive layout, easy programming without menu diving
Direct access to 999 sounds via numeric buttons
Compact and portable, ideal for live performances
Built-in arpeggiator and sequencer for genre versatility
High-quality build and excellent keyboard feel
SEM filters produce rich, varied tones
Stereo pan feature for immersive voice distribution
Digital effects (chorus, delay, reverb) enhance sound
Modulation options, including X-Mod, for creative sound shaping

CONS

Factory presets somewhat mediocre, famous patches not included
Limited to one LFO, restricting modulation possibilities
Filter does not self-oscillate, affecting certain sound types
Sub-oscillator behavior can be unpredictable
SoundTower plugin for additional control requires extra purchase

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sequential OB-6 Synthesizer.

Comparisons

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The OB-6 is often compared to the Prophet 6 and OB-8; users note its unique 12db filter and distinctive sound, which can be more specialized.
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While the OB-6 is known for its warm pads, some users find it challenging to make non-brassy sounds compared to synths like the Prophet Rev2.
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The OB-6's square wave sub-oscillator is noted for its presence and ability to "take over a mix," offering a distinct contrast to the Prophet 6's triangle sub-oscillator.
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The OB-6's state variable SEM filter is highlighted for its ability to smoothly morph between low-pass, notch, and high-pass settings, unlike the OB-X8.
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Some owners find the OB-6 less versatile than the Prophet 6, with its brighter character and unique oscillators being more specialized for classic 80s synthwave sounds.
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The OB-6, with its SEM filters, differs from the OB-Xa/8, which use Curtis filters; this leads to a distinct, brighter sound in the OB-6.
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Features and functionality

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The OB-6 is praised for its ability to cut through mixes with both high-end clarity and low-end depth, offering versatility in sound design.
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The OB-6's onboard flanger, particularly the FL2 setting, is highlighted for enhancing certain sounds like arpeggios.
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The OB-6 features continuous wave shape knobs for both VCOs, unlike the OB-X8 which uses switches for wave shapes, providing smoother transitions.
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The OB-6's vintage mode, enabled via firmware, allows VCFs to drift apart, enhancing its analog character reminiscent of older synths.
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The OB-6's digital effects, particularly reverb, are deemed subpar, with users favoring external effects like a Space Echo for better sound quality.
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User experience

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Many owners find the OB-6 easy to create sounds with, but note that creating specific tones may require effort due to its distinct tonal character.
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Owners appreciate the OB-6 for its standout sound that consistently delivers a unique character, making it a favored choice for those seeking a distinct sonic identity.
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Some users find the OB-6 harsh at full oscillator volume, recommending reducing volume to 50-75% for a subtler sound.
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Setup and maintenance

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Presets on the OB-6 are often considered subpar, with most users preferring to create custom patches for better results.
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Use cases and applications

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The OB-6 is noted for its ability to fit well in a mix due to its piercing nature, despite being less fat than older Oberheims.
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Critic Reviews

Dave Smith Instruments OB6

soundonsound.com

The Sequential OB-6 Synthesizer is a triumph of collaboration between Dave Smith and Tom Oberheim, capturing the classic SEM sound with modern enhancements. It offers a wide range of rich, vintage-inspired tones while being far more flexible than its predecessors. The build quality is sturdy, and it provides an intuitive interface that makes programming straightforward and enjoyable. However, the four-octave keyboard might not satisfy all, and it lacks multi-timbrality and CV/Gate connectivity. Despite these minor drawbacks, the OB-6 stands as a stellar choice for those seeking authentic Oberheim sounds with a modern twist.

positive

Full Review

Dave Smith Instruments OB-6 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Sequential OB-6 Synthesizer is praised for its blend of modern and vintage Oberheim sounds, with impressive modulation capabilities and a user-friendly interface. It excels in producing textured, aggressive tones, making it a favorite for film composers. However, some panel labels are obscured by knobs, and the sequencer's transpose function is cumbersome. Despite these minor drawbacks, the OB-6 delivers on its promise of rich, versatile soundscapes, making it a strong contender for those seeking Oberheim's signature character with modern enhancements.

positive

Full Review

Dave Smith Instruments OB-6 Review - Part Three

musictech.com

Full Review

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 6 Reviews and 34 Ratings

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ever_josh

330

over 5 years ago

My best 2-POLE Synth

It sounds so phat, like this VCO sound SEM filter is just adorable, make your patches more fizzy

When you feel the sound is lack of something, here are my recommendations 1. Use X-Mod ( I like the destination for PW1 / Filter Mode / Norm <-> BP / Shape 1) 2. Use Detune Knob 3. Just tweak the Filter Mode knob (a little bit closer from LP to Notch) 4. Use Panspread ( That's why I love it to record in stereo )

Roles:

Singer Guitarist Bassist

Genres:

Electronic Rock Pop

From Gear Setup

xaqary

5455

over 8 years ago

Love.

Modulation of the filter type via your choice of sources is heaven...but just the start of this magic piece.

Hands down one of the most expressive synths I’ve ever laced hands on. It’s truly an instrument in the way many other fantastic offerings by other (including other DSI offerings) just haven’t pulled off. Thats what set this synth apart from the others for me. It’s just insanely expressive in such an effortless way- in addition to sounding beautiful.

This is one synth you really have to put hands on & play to really appreciate. No sound demos are gonna really tell the story. No review can explain what it is to play.