OB Matrix 6/6r • Matrix 1000
100 New Custom Programs
Only $25
Mac/PC Sysex or Midi File
In an attempt to reduce costs, in 1985 Oberheim released the Matrix 6 and Matrix 6R rack mount version. These were 6-voice analogue synths many of the same basic specs as their flagship Matrix 12 and Xpander. They were still based on the Oberheim "Matrix Modulation" system, however to keep costs down Oberheim used less expensive DCOs and other digital alternatives to expensive analogue components. Despite the compromises, the Matrix 6 and 6r still sounded good. Each of their 6 voices has a pair of DCOs, a low pass filter, 2 VCA's, 3 envelope generators, 2 LFO's, and 2 ramp generators which are perfect for creating of complex analog pads, basses, leads and effects.
Due to the high price tag, the Matrix 12 and Xpander series weren't commercially successful for Oberheim. The Matrix 6 and 6r sold better, however in 1987 Oberheim released the Matrix 1000. For under $500, you could buy essentially the same technology in a one rack space module that offered 1000 preset sounds. For the money, there wasn't a better way to access to the classic Oberheim sound.
Many will say that they don't sound as good because of the use of DCOs and other cost-down compromise, but unless you have a genuine old '70s Oberhem to compare them side-by-side, you'd be hard pressed to hear the difference. The Matrix 1000 is a fantastic source of rich and vibrant analogue synth sounds that leave most software synths sounding wimpy and weak by comparison. Oberheim made two models - initially a black-faced model but later, a cream-faced version in the original style of Oberheim's '70s synths. The Matrix 1000 sold very well for Oberheim until it was discontinued in 1994.
Unlike many other analog synths, you can still pick up a used Matrix 6, 6r or 1000 for a reasonable price. They are considered a great value for the money and if your interested in programming your own sounds, the Matrix Modulation system offers a great variety of sounds. It's a good idea to invest in editing software so you can program directly from your computer which is a whole lot easier to see everything that's going on under the hood then trying to keep all those modulation routings in your head!
Our sound set contains 100 new programs and is compatible with the Matrix 6, Matrix 6r and Matrix 1000. The patches are available as system exclusive (.syx), standard midi files (.mid). Our sounds will also get you back in business if your Matrix battery has died and you lost all the sounds in the memory.
