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Oberheim Matrix 12

$15,995.00 Price Tier: High-end

5.0 (16)

5 Critic Reviews

1 Review

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

Find out who is using Oberheim Matrix 12

3 community setups

14 wishlisted

25 saved

Page last updated Jul 04, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated July 3, 2026.

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Reviews

Price

4.0 (7)

$15,995.00 9 available Used

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Average Price: $8,173

High-end/Boutique

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

In the Synthesizers category, Oberheim Matrix 12 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

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Description

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Step into a world of sonic exploration with the Oberheim Matrix 12, a pinnacle of analog synthesis that continues to captivate musicians and producers alike. This legendary synthesizer is renowned for its expansive sound palette, driven by a combination of cutting-edge technology and classic analog warmth. With its 12-voice polyphony, the Matrix 12 offers an unparalleled depth of sound, allowing for lush, complex textures that are ideal for both studio and live performances.

Each voice is equipped with two oscillators, providing a robust foundation for creating anything from warm pads to sharp leads. The Matrix 12's unique modulation matrix is a standout feature, offering extensive routing options that let you sculpt your sound with precision. Its 61-key velocity-sensitive keyboard is responsive and expressive, catering to dynamic playing styles.

The user interface is designed for intuitive navigation, featuring a clear display and an array of dedicated controls that make real-time sound manipulation straightforward. Whether you're a seasoned synth enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of analog synthesis, the Oberheim Matrix 12 offers a versatile and powerful tool for music creation.

Key Features:

12-voice polyphonic analog synthesizer
Dual VCOs per voice with multiple waveforms
Extensive modulation matrix with flexible routing
61-key velocity-sensitive keyboard
Dedicated controls for real-time sound shaping
Comprehensive MIDI implementation for seamless integration

Product specs

Brand	Oberheim
Model	Matrix 12 61-Key 12-Voice Synthesizer
Finish	Black
Year	1985
Categories	Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital	Analog
Key Size	Full Size
Keyboard Action	Synth Action
MIDI I/O	MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Number of Keys	61 Keys
Polyphony	12 Voices

FAQs

Is the Oberheim Matrix 12 a polyphonic synthesizer?: Yes, the Oberheim Matrix 12 is a polyphonic synthesizer with 12 voices, allowing for complex and rich sound layering.
What type of synthesis does the Oberheim Matrix 12 use?: The Oberheim Matrix 12 uses analog subtractive synthesis, featuring dual oscillators and a sophisticated modulation matrix for versatile sound shaping.
Does the Oberheim Matrix 12 have MIDI connectivity?: Yes, the Oberheim Matrix 12 includes MIDI Input, MIDI Output, and MIDI Through, allowing for integration with other MIDI-compatible gear.
What are the key features of the Oberheim Matrix 12's sound engine?: The Oberheim Matrix 12 features dual oscillators with FM and sync capabilities, multimode filters, and an extensive modulation matrix, enabling a wide range of sonic possibilities.
How many keys does the Oberheim Matrix 12 have?: The Oberheim Matrix 12 has 61 full-size keys, providing ample range for expressive playability.

Videos

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musictrackjp

Oberheim Matrix-12 Demo & Review

musictrackjp

Oberheim Matrix-12

SynthMania

Oberheim Matrix 12

MrFirechild

Vintage Oberheim Matrix 12 Analog Synthesizer Sounds

Perfect Circuit

Oberheim Matrix 12 , synthesizers , Sound Demo ..

CLASSIC VINTAGE

Oberheim Matrix-12 | Analog Superpowers

Espen Kraft

Oberheim Matrix-12 Demo & Review

musictrackjp

Oberheim Matrix-12 Synthesizer Sounds Demo #10

gstormelectro

Oberheim Matrix 12 demo

Panu M Savolainen

Reviews

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PROS

Exceptional sound quality with warm analog pads, leads, and basses
Rich sound modulation capabilities for tone tweakers
Rare custom chips contribute to unique sound characteristics
Vintage status adds exclusivity

CONS

Extremely high cost, possibly not justifiable by its features alone
Scarcity of replacement parts, including custom chips and power supply unit
Requires extensive programming time, not ideal for fast performance needs
Original power supply prone to overheating, requiring expensive replacement
Overrated by some, with alternatives offering similar sounds at lower costs

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Oberheim Matrix 12.

Setup and maintenance

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Only a few specialized technicians, like those in LA, Chicago, and New York, can effectively service the Matrix 12 due to its complexity.
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Cosmetic damage such as blue marker on logos is not critical but can be addressed by major service tech shops.
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Some owners recommend contacting Bell Tone in Philadelphia for reliable repair work on the Matrix 12.
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Value and pricing

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An untested Oberheim Matrix 12 sold for $8,200, highlighting the potential high value despite unknown operational status.
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Tested, good-condition Matrix 12 units have sold for around $10,000 on platforms like Reverb.
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Comparisons

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The Jupiter-6 and MKS-80 can replicate Matrix-12 patches using 1-2 LFOs/EGs but lack the full modulator range.
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DSIs like Mopho X4, Prophet 08, and Rev2 use CEM3397 chips, similar to Matrix-6/1000, but the sound differs significantly.
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The Moog One, Andromeda, and Polybrute offer VCO polys with high modulation but don't replicate the Matrix-12's unique sound.
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Owners note that the Matrix-12's ADR envelope portions are notably slow, offering a unique aspect in sound modulation not found in some other synths.
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The Matrix-12's sound is often described as having a cold, sci-fi quality, akin to the Prophet 600 and Jupiter 6, due to its CEM chip architecture.
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Features and functionality

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Emphasized for its vast number of modulators per voice, making it unparalleled in modulation capabilities.
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The Matrix-12's ability to define each of its twelve voices independently makes it ideal for complex layered compositions and evolving soundscapes.
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The Matrix-12's digitally-controlled signal routing matrix offers modular synthesizer experiences without the need for physical patch cables, enhancing its versatility.
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Software and compatibility

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Arturia's Matrix-12 VST is considered outdated and less authentic than Matrix-6 or 1000 sounds.
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Use cases and applications

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Ideal for creating massive synth orchestras and generative soundscapes, the Matrix-12 excels in producing both classic Oberheim brass and self-playing sound pieces.
Source

Critic Reviews

Oberheim Matrix 12 & XK Controller (IM May 85)

muzines.co.uk

The Oberheim Matrix 12 is lauded as a groundbreaking analogue synthesizer, expanding on its predecessor, the Expander, by incorporating a 12-voice architecture with a velocity and pressure-sensitive keyboard. Its standout feature is the extensive modulation routing system, providing unprecedented flexibility with 27 modulation sources and 47 destinations per voice. Despite its high price, the Matrix 12 is praised for its versatility, allowing multiple keyboard splits and layers, and its user-friendly interface that simplifies complex patch programming. While the lack of a weighted keyboard might disappoint some, the Matrix 12's expressive capabilities and superior sound quality justify its premium status, making it a top choice for serious synth enthusiasts.

positive

Full Review

Oberheim Matrix 12 | Vintage Synth Explorer

vintagesynth.com

The Oberheim Matrix 12 remains a revered titan in the analog synthesizer realm, known for its robust, round, and dynamic sounds that are perfect for crafting thick analog pads, sweeps, and textures. Its Matrix Modulation system offers nearly limitless sound and modulation possibilities, making it a dream for sound designers. However, its complexity may not suit beginners, as the extensive modulation options and controls demand a deep understanding. The Matrix 12 shines with its unique character, standing as a testament to Oberheim's innovative design.

positive

Full Review

Oberheim Matrix 12 (EMM Jun 85)

muzines.co.uk

The Oberheim Matrix 12 is hailed as an exceptional analogue polysynth, lauded for its extensive modulation capabilities and rich, multi-timbral sound palettes. The addition of a velocity-sensing keyboard and doubling of voices from its predecessor, the Xpander, ensures a powerful performance both live and in studio settings. While its complexity might initially intimidate, the user interface's logical layout facilitates ease of programming. However, the absence of individual CV/Gate inputs and audio outs is a notable drawback for studio applications, and the factory multi patches don't fully exploit the synth's potential. Despite these limitations, the Matrix 12's flexibility and sound quality make it a standout choice for those who can afford its steep price tag.

positive

Full Review

Vintage music tech icons: Oberheim Matrix 12 | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Oberheim Matrix 12 is hailed as a highly flexible analog synth with digital control, offering a wealth of sound-shaping possibilities that ensure its longevity in a musician's arsenal. Its 12 VCOs and 15-mode VCF provide a rich palette of tones, albeit not as raw as some earlier Oberheim models. While the interface may appear complex initially, it becomes intuitive with use, supported by extensive MIDI capabilities. However, potential buyers should be cautious of its physical condition and memory integrity when purchasing used units, as repair costs can be high. Overall, a positive verdict for its versatility and sound design potential.

positive

Full Review

Impressions of the Oberheim Matrix-12 - GreatSynthesizers

greatsynthesizers.com

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 16 Ratings

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mike_byrd

773

over 11 years ago

outstanding piece of analog

Ive only used this beast as a plugin but would love to own a original it sounds oustanding and can create a wealth of warm analog pads, leads and sub frequency basses an textures etc . The arturia plugin off this synth sounded great except it consumed a hell of a lot of cpu juice which is a shame I hope arturia iron this problem out on their virtual synth emulations software as this will definately go down as a must have classics so many tasty patchs can be created on this animal outstanding piece of kit.

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Keyboardist Composer Music Producer

Genres:

Electronic Electronica Dance music