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Description
The Oberheim Matrix 1000 is a classic sound module that remains a staple in the world of synthesizers. Revered for its distinctive CEM3396 voice chip, this module offers a palette of rich, analog sounds that have captivated musicians since its release. Ideal for both studio use and live performances, the Matrix 1000 is equipped with six-voice polyphony and a vast library of 1,000 presets, providing a diverse array of tones suitable for any musical genre.
This sound module is renowned for its flexibility and depth, making it a favorite among sound designers and electronic music producers. Its architecture allows for intricate modulation and layering, bringing an unparalleled expressiveness to your music. While the Matrix 1000's interface is simple, it is highly intuitive, making it accessible to both newcomers and seasoned professionals.
The unit is MIDI-compatible, ensuring seamless integration with modern setups. Its compact design allows it to fit comfortably in any rack, making it a versatile addition to any studio or live rig. Whether you're crafting lush pads, punchy basslines, or soaring leads, the Oberheim Matrix 1000 delivers legendary analog warmth and character.
Key Features:
- Six-voice polyphony for rich, layered sounds
- CEM3396 voice chip offering a classic analog tone
- 1,000 presets for a wide range of sound options
- Comprehensive modulation capabilities
- MIDI-compatible for easy integration with modern equipment
- Compact design for convenient rack mounting
- Ideal for both live performances and studio production
Product specs
| Brand | Oberheim |
| Model | Matrix 1000 Rackmount 6-Voice Synthesizer |
| Finish | Black, White |
| Year | 1987 |
| Categories | Analog Synths, Rackmount Synths |
| Analog / Digital | Analog |
| MIDI I/O | MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through |
| Polyphony | 6 Voices |
FAQs
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Is the Oberheim Matrix 1000 an analog synthesizer?
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Yes, the Oberheim Matrix 1000 is an analog synthesizer, featuring a hybrid design with analog signal paths and digital control.
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How many voices does the Oberheim Matrix 1000 have?
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The Oberheim Matrix 1000 is a 6-voice polyphonic synthesizer, allowing for rich, layered sound creation.
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What kind of presets does the Oberheim Matrix 1000 offer?
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The Oberheim Matrix 1000 includes 1,000 presets, providing a wide range of sounds for various musical styles and applications.
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Can the Oberheim Matrix 1000 be controlled via MIDI?
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Yes, the Oberheim Matrix 1000 features MIDI input, output, and through connections, allowing for integration with other MIDI-compatible gear.
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What is the filter type on the Oberheim Matrix 1000?
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The Oberheim Matrix 1000 features a resonant 24dB low-pass filter, contributing to its classic analog sound character.
Videos
Gregory Cox
Oberheim Matrix 1000 Sound Demonstration
Oberheim Matrix 1000 Sound Demonstration
Gregory Cox
OBERHEIM MATRIX-1000 / MATRIX-6 | NEW CUSTOM PATCHES | Analog Synthesizer HD DEMO
AnalogAudio1
Oberheim Matrix-1000 | Analog Rack Power
Espen Kraft
Bad Gear - Oberheim Matrix-1000
AudioPilz
Oberheim Matrix-1000 Vintage Analog Synthesizer (1987)
RetroSound
Oberheim Matrix 1000 vs OB-X8 // A Vintage Gem that deserves a closer look
Starsky Carr
Maybe the most underrated Analog Synthesizer - Oberheim Matrix-1000
RetroSound
The Oberheim Matrix 1000 Analog Synthesizer by Franz Kreimer Keys (with english subtitles)
Franz Kreimer Keys
Two Oberheim Matrix 1000 played by Franz Kreimer Keys (Patches only; no talking)
Franz Kreimer Keys
Oberheim MATRIX 1000 Demo AMBIENT PADS & STRINGS / 1.20 /
Rob World
Reviews
PROS
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Rich, full analog sounds that are unmatched
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1,000 patches offer extensive sound variety
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Modulation matrix provides deep sound design possibilities
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Can be poly-chained for increased polyphony and sonic richness
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Special poly mode allows for advanced MIDI channel assignments
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Firmware upgrades offer improved MIDI CC control and detune features
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Compatible with external controllers for live tweaking
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Unique flavor that cuts through a mix well
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Compact size compared to other Oberheim synths
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Some models are relatively affordable for vintage analog gear
CONS
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Overheats easily with variable loading times
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Initial lack of front-face editing capabilities
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Requires external programmer or software for in-depth sound editing
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Envelopes not very snappy, affecting certain sound types
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Only one model has a low pass filter per voice
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Built-in presets may require external manipulation for customization
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MIDI CC support can be unresponsive without firmware updates
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Oberheim Matrix 1000.
Features and functionality
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The Matrix 1000 is noted for its low-note priority in unison/mono mode, affecting bass-line and lead performance approach.
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The Matrix 1000 offers 200 RAM slots for user-created sounds and 800 ROM presets, providing extensive sound storage options despite lacking patch editing capabilities from the front panel.
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Comparisons
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Matrix 1000 shares the CEM3396 chip with Matrix 6 and Cheetah MS6, similar to Prophet 08's rebranded CEM3397.
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Notable difference between Matrix 1000's 4-pole 24dB low-pass filter and OB6's state variable filter contributes to distinct sound genres.
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Cheetah MS6, similar to the Matrix 1000, is known for its multitimbral capabilities and distinct sound, comparable to a Prophet 08, but offers unique voice stacking for complex sound creation.
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The Prophet Rev2 is noted to have similar modulation capabilities to the Matrix 1000, but users find its sound distinct, suggesting careful consideration for those seeking the Matrix's specific tone.
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Use cases and applications
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Matrix 1000 is ideal for fattening up other synths but is cumbersome for parameter tweaking without additional equipment.
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The 666 patch paired with reverb and a Typhon synthesizer creates an impressive solo performance setup, highlighting the Matrix 1000's versatility in creative sound design.
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The Matrix 1000's unique modulation options allow for versatile sound design, making it suitable for users who prioritize expansive modulation over traditional knob-per-function interfaces.
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User experience
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Owners often rely on external units like BCR2000 or MIDI-sysex utilities for effective patch editing on the Matrix 1000.
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Owners report that patch editing on a stock Matrix 1000 is cumbersome due to its sysex architecture and outdated OS, prompting frequent recommendations for an OS upgrade.
Source
Setup and maintenance
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Owners indicate that remembering patch numbers can be challenging, suggesting a systematic approach or notation to manage favorite patches effectively.
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The Cheetah MS6, akin to the Matrix 1000, may require careful handling due to power supply vulnerabilities and potential battery corrosion issues, necessitating regular maintenance checks.
Source
Mods and upgrades
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Upgrading the Matrix 1000’s OS is recommended for easier parameter editing via MIDI CC, although the mod matrix still requires sysex commands.
Source
Software and compatibility
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Edisyn is praised as a superior software controller for the Matrix 1000, offering intuitive interface options compared to other CTLR editors, enhancing user interaction.
Source
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 10 Reviews and 39 Ratings
4041
perfect sounding analog poly @ budget price
I bought my Black Matrix 1000 as a counterpart to my beloved Juno 60 a week ago. The 6-voice polyphonic rack synthesizer sounds incredibly large, analog and wide, even without FX. I love the overall warm sound. It is the opposite of some harsh-sounding modern synths (I sent the Korg Minilogue back).
Adding delay, reverb or modulation effects turns the matrix into an epic analog pad, brass & string machine. For that I mainly use it. But it's also great for bass, leads, FM, FX and all other kinda analog sounds. Especially with the MOD matrix it is so easy to create very organic sounds. And even if the attack time and the LFOs are not the fastest, they are fast enough for me.
When I bought it, firmware was 1.11, so I did an Eprom upgrade to 1.20 (Tauntek / Rob Grieb), where many bugfixes were fixed and the matrix can now be easily used with a MIDI controller. The Eprom also includes the important global detune of Gigli v. 1.6. With this upgrade, the Matrix 1000 no longer sounds static, the DCOs behave more like VCO.
Without an external controller, the matrix 1000 is more or less an analog preset machine because no editing is possible. the real fun begins with controllers. I tweak the Obeheim Matrix 1000 with my stereoping controller. Of course, you can also use software to tweak, but I prefer real buttons.
For me it is the perfect sounding analog poly! for 500 euros / 570 USD it is still relatively cheap for a vintage analog 6-voice polyphonic. And I already think about a second one for stereo operations or 12-voice polyphony :-)
41029
I miss my matrix 1k, good synth, grossly underrated because of the lack of knobs
4041
totally agree! The good thing is, that we can choose now between very powerful hardware controllers from Stereoping and Alpes Machines
205
many sounds
There are so many sounds, and if you have a decent patch librarian that understands its sysex format it's actually not bad for creating sounds, and if you have something with a lot of spare knobs it's not bad for performance. The minimal UI is incredibly intimidating, though.
41029
stereoping synth controller
41029
Not bad as a MIDI module.
Another 1RU analoger in the Roland MKS camp. The Matrix rack does a lot if you can stand the menus, but I give Roland's juno-in-a-rack the edge because its easier to program due to a simpler feature set and it has a certain timbrality my ear seems to prefer to the oberheim.
269
Unique Preset Machine
There's not much you can do to program a Matrix 1000 unless you get a computer program to help, but with 1000 presets there's good chance you'll find something you like anyway. The Oberheim sounds really cut through a mix and can ad a unique flavor to a track.
3582
Classic analog (pre-set) polysynth.
Classic analog polysynth. Sounds great, even the pre-sets sound great. Extensive control matrix and quite affordable. The only downside is that you need an editor to create/change sounds. And while it does supports MIDI CC extensively, it is not always fluent when doing so. There are some aftermarket firmware updates which make it slightly better but I wouldn't do that live. This is however not really an issue when you're just playing it pre-sets and you can still keep the sounds interesting by using the extensive control matrix.
It will get it's 5th star when someone fixes the response to MIDI CC's.
41029
yeh, the MIDI implementation sucks.... I made multiple samples of the best patches I made on mine and then sold her last year. Its no Xpander, but who can afford the Xpander these days?
62
Many good sounds, but get the free editor to unock its potential!
The guts of this synth is the same as the Matrix 6 but without the ability to edit anything on the front face of the unit. Oddly, the first 200 patch banks may be overwritten while the remaining 800 are ROM sounds. There is a free program for Mac called ObieEditor that gives you full access to the DCO's, LFO, ENV's, Filter, and more. You can copy a patch from the unit into the software, tweak and edit, then send it to one of the User banks on the Matrix 1000 and save it. You now have an amazing, full editable Matrix 1000.
270
Top analog classic Synth!
Top analog classic Synth, controlled over midi by an Stereoping 1016R Midi Cotroller
41029
I miss mine, not a synth I sold lightly :-(
1U of big analog sound
The most compact Oberheim synth there is. Everything else is a huge keyboard or module, not to mention super pricy and/or rare.
41029
and yet the 1000 does all the Oberheim sounds you could need, what a great little synthesizer, love it
Artist usage
Add artist
In an interview with Richard Karsmakers in October 1995, Jens Johansson confirmed his use of the Oberheim Matrix 1000, stating: "Oberheim Matrix 12, Matrix 1000's, Matrix 6R, DPX-1. Korg PolySix (I have around 10 of those), Yamaha DX7+TX816 rack, Roland D20, DS-330, Hammond + Leslie (I have two actually), Korg CX3 as a 'touring Hammond', and a bunch of others."
Although boasting a lush sound, the album was recorded largely at Paul's Rhythm Ranch studio on a single tascam 16-track with a Studiomaster desk. Synths used include: Roland D-50, Akai S1000 and S3000, Kork M1R, Waldorf Microwave, Roland Super Jupiter module, Oberheim Matrix 1000, Yamaha TX802, Minimoog, MIDIMoog, Oberheim Two-Voice, Roland Jupiter 8 and SH-101.
Daniel Miller includes the Oberheim Matrix 1000 in his gear list, as detailed in Sound on Sound.
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As cited in the gear list of this May '92 feature in Music Tech magazine:
"My favourite? Hmm... It's between the two Oberheims, the Matrix 1000 and the 6R. I have editors for both of them, and I do a lot of tweaking and coming up with weird things."
Equipment list from the March 1994 issue of Sound on Sound:
RECORDERS
Soundcraft Series 760 24‑track tape machine. Revox PR66 2‑track tape machine. Sony DTC‑1000ES DAT recorder. Casio DA7 portable DAT recorder. Tascam 122 cassette recorder.
MIXER
Soundcraft Series 1624 mixer.
MONITORS
JBL 4425 studio monitors. Yamaha NS10m nearfield monitors.
AMPLIFIER
Quad 520f power amp.
INSTRUMENTS
Akai S1000 sampler. Emu Emax keyboard sampler. Oberheim Matrix 1000 synth module. Roland Juno 60 synth. Yamaha DX7 synthesizer. Roland SH09 synth (with MIDI). EMS Synthi A synth. Putney VCS3 synth. Roland TR808 drum machine (with MIDI). Roland TR909 drum machine. Roland TB303 Bassline synth (with MIDI).
SEQUENCER
C‑Lab Notator + Unitor + Export. Atari 1040ST + monitor.
PROCESSORS
Lexicon PCM70 digital effects. Lexicon PCM60 digital reverb. MXR 01a digital reverb Bel BD80 delay. Yamaha EMP700 multi‑effects. Alesis Quadraverb. Drawmer dual gates (2). Drawmer compressor/limiter.
MICROPHONES
Neumann U89i mic.
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In an Instagram post by Black Marble, the Oberheim Matrix 1000 is visible in the second position from the top of the lower rack.
In this episode of Producers House, you can see the Matrix plain as day.
In this Slices Tech Talk, Electronic Beats TV looks to delve into the heart of Ian Pooley's Berlin studio
"I used a Korg T3 which belonged to Dead Or Alive, and that has a lot of good string sounds. Cubase was the main software package, although it wasn't used throughout, as there's not even timecode on some tracks. The Yamaha grand piano was there, and a Korg M1. I had a Fishman pickup on the viola, which is a fantastic English design, and a Barcus-Berry violin. I used my old Oberheim polysynth, and an Akai S900 sampler with a lot of 8-bit violin samples done for the first solo album, which were still perfectly good thank you very much! Then there's a D550 module, an Oberheim Matrix 1000, a lot of drum samples on an Akai S1000, some from an Alesis drum machine, some Prophet VS, a few bits from a Yamaha TX816 rack, and an OSCar solo on 'Ukraine'. I still use the Yamaha KX88 as the master keyboard because I like the touch, but it could do with more splits and it's not very easy to program. But there's less equipment here than on my first solo album — I hadn't really rushed out to buy any new equipment."
Oberheim Matrix 1000 is included in the equipment list.
Album Usage
The Oberheim Matrix 1000 has been featured on the following albums:
Sus Dog
Clark (2023)
Seven Pieces for Synthesizer
Martin Stürtzer (2019)
Visions (Remastered Edition Sampler)
John B (2016)
Beyond The Sun
Firechild (2012)
Very (2018 Remaster)
Pet Shop Boys (1993)
![Oberheim Matrix 1000 as heard on Storms in Africa (Pt. II) [2009 Remaster] by Enya (1989)](https://images.equipboard.com/uploads/album/image/539384/storms-in-africa-pt-ii-2009-remaster.jpg)
Storms in Africa (Pt. II) [2009 Remaster]
Enya (1989)
Doctor Who: Ghost Light (Original Television Soundtrack)
Mark Ayres & Keff McCulloch (1989)
The Celts
Enya (1987)
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 Matrix 1000, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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