This page about Oberheim Xk is a stub. You can help improve it:

Oberheim Xk

2 Critic Reviews

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

Find out who is using Oberheim Xk

0 wishlisted

0 saved

Page last updated Aug 11, 2025

Pricing and availability

Store

Reviews

Price

^* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Edit description

Introducing the Oberheim Xk, a classic 61-key MIDI controller that brings a touch of vintage charm to your modern studio setup. Designed for musicians who appreciate the tactile feel of a traditional keyboard, the Oberheim Xk offers a seamless blend of old-school aesthetics and cutting-edge MIDI capabilities. Whether you're composing, performing, or producing, this controller provides the expressive control you need to bring your creative visions to life.

The Oberheim Xk is renowned for its robust build quality and intuitive interface, making it a trusted companion for both live performances and studio sessions. The keyboard features velocity-sensitive keys, ensuring that every nuance of your playing is captured with precision. With its versatile MIDI connectivity, it can easily integrate into any modern setup, allowing you to control your favorite software instruments and external hardware with ease.

The interface includes a variety of assignable controls, giving you the flexibility to tailor the Xk to your specific workflow. From pitch and modulation wheels to programmable buttons and sliders, this MIDI controller empowers you to shape your sound with precision and creativity.

Key Features:

Classic 61-key MIDI controller with velocity-sensitive keys
Seamless integration with software and hardware via MIDI connectivity
Assorted assignable controls including pitch and modulation wheels
Robust build quality suitable for both studio and live environments
Intuitive interface for easy navigation and control

Videos

Add video

RetroSound

Oberheim Xk keyboard controller arpeggiator (1986)

RetroSound

GIRLY GROOVE || silent adventure - Oberheim Xk

girly groove

Reviews

Add review

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

0 0

The Oberheim Xk allows direct control of parameters like filter, ADSR, velocity, and aftertouch, enhancing the Matrix 1000's capabilities.
Source
0 0

The TEO-5's modulation capabilities surpass those of older Oberheims, providing more flexible sound sculpting.
Source
0 0

The TEO-5's 2-pole/12dB filter has mechanisms to mimic steeper filter sounds, enhancing its versatility.
Source

Mods and upgrades

0 0

Owners can upgrade the Matrix 1000 to 1.16 or 1.20 firmware, addressing many issues without the Kiwi-1000 upgrade.
Source

Software and compatibility

0 0

The Patch Base iPad app is not compatible with the Kiwi-1000 upgrade, affecting patch editing capabilities.
Source

User experience

0 0

Editing all 1000 presets is a standout feature of the Kiwi-1000, as opposed to the original 200, but may compromise existing patch management setups.
Source
0 0

Some users find the TEO-5's menu diving, especially in the mixer section, less intuitive than expected.
Source

Comparisons

0 0

The TEO-5 filter is based on the OB-8's filter, offering a distinct sound compared to the OB-6.
Source
0 0

The TEO-5 is seen as nearly identical in sonic character to the OB-6, despite having one fewer voice.
Source

Build quality

0 0

The TEO-5 has a smaller keybed than the OB-6, with mod wheels on the panel rather than next to the keys, affecting ergonomics.
Source

Value and pricing

0 0

The TEO-5 offers a more affordable entry into the Oberheim sound, with some users preferring it over more expensive models.
Source

Critic Reviews

Oberheim Matrix 12 & XK Controller (IM May 85)

muzines.co.uk

The Oberheim XK offers a compelling MIDI controller experience, showcasing impressive versatility with its ability to control multiple synthesizers and facilitate complex setups. However, its hefty price tag and lack of sound-generating capabilities may deter budget-conscious musicians. While the keyboard's comfortable playability is a plus, it feels less robust than some competitors in the market. Additionally, while the extensive features provide excellent control options, the learning curve can be steep for users unfamiliar with advanced MIDI setups. Ultimately, the XK shines in functionality but falls short in value for those seeking an all-in-one solution.

negative

Full Review

Remote Control (EMM May 86)

muzines.co.uk

The Oberheim Xk impresses with its robust build and intuitive design, offering musicians extensive control over MIDI parameters. Its clever features, such as three programmable keyboard zones and velocity sensitivity, cater well to creative needs in both studio and live settings. However, its high price tag of just over £1000 raises concerns, especially given the stiff competition from rival brands like Roland and Akai. Additionally, the lack of a built-in sequencer may limit its appeal for those seeking an all-in-one solution. While the Xk excels in flexibility and accessibility, potential buyers should weigh its merits against its cost and the current market offerings.

neutral

Full Review

Add review

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star

Artist usage

Add artist

Paul Humphreys

Keyboardist

Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark

Verified via Muzines

"We had trouble finding a keyboard to use with it", explains Humphreys. "We went through two Oberheim Xks that wouldn't talk to it - they just wouldn't listen to each other. Eventually we found out that the problem lay with the Oberheim, because we'd been using the Super Jupiter with lots of other MIDI sources without any trouble. It's fine now, but we've been thinking about getting a DX7 - because we don't actually own one - to use as a controller. The problem there is changing the presets on the Super Jupiter, because you can't do it from the DX7."

Joey Pesce

Keyboardist

'Til Tuesday