Oberheim Matrix synthesizers

Oberheim Matrix-6 (1986–1988)

Oberheim Matrix synthesizers are a historic product line of analog synthesizers from Oberheim featuring a method of synthesis which Oberheim called "Matrix Modulation" as a method of defining preset and user patches.

While the Matrix-12 (a 12 voice version of the Oberheim Xpander along with an added keyboard) are based on CEM Oscillators, the two models Matrix-6 and Matrix-1000 are notable for their implementation of DCOs, which maintain a completely analog sound but are controlled by digital circuitry, making them much more stable. The Matrix-6R and Matrix-1000 are both rackmount versions of the Matrix-6. Matrix synthesizers continue to be popular due to their characteristic late-1980s analog sound.

Models

Matrix-12[1] Matrix-6[2] Matrix-1000[3][4]
Image(s) (Matrix-6R)
Polyphony 12 voices 6 voices
Oscillators 24 (2 per voice) 12 DCOs (2 per voice)
Layers 12 part multitimbral
with up to 6 zones 		single, split,
2-part multitimbral 		single, monotimbral
Filter 15 variations of
low / high / band / notch 		1 low-pass resonant filter
Memory 100 single 100 multi 100 patches, 50 splits 1000 patches (800 preset, 200 user)
LFO 5 2 (plus 1 for vibrato effect)
Rackmount no yes (as Matrix-6R) yes
Keyboard 61-key (velocity & aftertouch) none
Control MIDI In/Out/Thru
Production 1984–1988 1986–1988 1987–1994

References

  1. ↑ Oberheim Matrix 12 page at Vintage Synth Explorer
  2. ↑ Oberheim Matrix 6 page at Vintage Synth Explorer
  3. ↑ Oberheim Matrix 1000 page at Vintage Synth Explorer
  4. ↑ Oberheim Matrix 1000 manual at Vintage Synth Explorer

External links