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Average Price: $30
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Description
Step back into the golden age of electronic music with the Oberheim DX, a drum machine that has left an indelible mark on the music scene since its debut in the early 1980s. This iconic piece of gear is renowned for its distinctive sound, featuring digital samples of real acoustic drums that deliver a warm, authentic punch. Whether you're crafting beats for hip-hop, synth-pop, or any genre craving a touch of retro flair, the DX offers you a palette of sounds that are both classic and timeless.
With its straightforward interface, the Oberheim DX allows musicians and producers of all skill levels to dive into beat-making with ease. The machine's sequencing capability is straightforward yet powerful, giving you the ability to create intricate patterns and loops that can breathe life into your tracks. The DX's MIDI compatibility ensures seamless integration into modern setups, making it a versatile addition to any studio or performance rig.
The Oberheim DX's 12-bit sound engine remains a favorite among artists who appreciate its character and depth, offering a sonic quality that's hard to replicate with modern counterparts. It's not just a drum machine; it's a piece of music history that continues to inspire and enable creativity across genres.
Key Features:
- Digital samples of real acoustic drums
- 12-bit sound engine for vintage tonal quality
- MIDI compatibility for modern integration
- User-friendly interface for easy programming
- Iconic sound, perfect for retro and contemporary music styles
Product specs
| Brand | Oberheim |
| Model | DX 6-Voice Drum Machine |
| Finish | Blue with Wood Sides |
| Year | 1982 |
| Categories | Drum Machines |
| Analog / Digital | Digital |
| Polyphony | 6 Voices |
FAQs
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What is the difference between the Oberheim DX and the DMX drum machines?
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The Oberheim DX features 18 sounds and allows for 6-sound polyphony, compared to the DMX's 24 sounds and 8-sound polyphony. The DX also has a 4-digit, 7-segment display and features plastic wood sides instead of walnut.
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How many voices of polyphony does the Oberheim DX have?
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The Oberheim DX drum machine has 6 voices of polyphony, allowing it to play up to six sounds simultaneously.
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Is the Oberheim DX a digital or analog drum machine?
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The Oberheim DX is a digital drum machine, which means it uses digital samples to recreate drum sounds.
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What are the dimensions of the Oberheim DX drum machine?
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The Oberheim DX measures 18 inches wide, 12 inches deep, and 5 inches high, making it a compact option for studio setups.
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What is the finish of the Oberheim DX drum machine?
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The Oberheim DX features a blue finish with wood sides, giving it a classic and distinctive look.
Videos
Justin Mullins
Oberheim DX Drum Machine Demo (HQ Audio)
Reviews
PROS
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Iconic "fat" beats and crunchy drum sounds
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Featured on numerous hit records
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Models with red writing indicate desirable MIDI-ready versions
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MIDI upgrade kits available, easy to install without soldering
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Sequencer offers a unique, finicky charm
CONS
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Original units may require battery and tactile switch replacements
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Double-triggering switches can make programming frustrating
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Parts can be temperamental, requiring careful maintenance or replacement
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Quality highly dependent on the unit's condition
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Oberheim DX.
Build quality
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Original documentation often includes rare items like the original magazine advertisement and handwritten notes from the 1980s.
Source
Setup and maintenance
User experience
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Machines often still contain original patterns and songs, providing a unique historical snapshot and reference for new creations.
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The Oberheim DX's memory can be pre-loaded with historical content, enhancing the nostalgia and usability straight out of the box.
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Owners report success in fixing dead toms with a simple plug-and-play replacement of the filter chip, enhancing the longevity of the unit.
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Value and pricing
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Purchases from small music shops might include unadvertised extras like padded boxes and full documentation, enhancing the value of the acquisition.
Source
4.5 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 10 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
Posted by his Label "Acid Test" John Frusciante names various Instruments he used over time. One of those is the Oberheim DX.
In this interview with Marc Maron, at about 1:04:27 Kim says she had a studio back at her house where she made solo music and used an Oberheim DX to create her beats.
Luke Million uses a Oberheim DX to play the drum machine part in his rendition of Funky Town as seen in this video from his studio.
In an interview with iheartsynths.com, FM Attack mentions owning an Oberheim DX drum machine among other gear, highlighting his expansive collection that includes favorites like the Minimoog and Jupiter 8.
The instrument appears on the list of instruments on official artist's website (http://olszak.pl/).
Album Usage
The Oberheim DX has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Oberheim DX, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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