Dave Smith Instruments

The OB-6 and Prophet-6 Modules: in the
studio and on stage
They’re built by the same company, share the same chassis/basic form factor, include
the same effects and even sound pretty similar at certain settings. But what makes
them stand apart from each other and which is the one for you? Here’s the lowdown…
On stage
THE GOOD:
As the OB-6M features the same sound engine and
features as the keyboard but in a more compact
form, you can have the same killer sonic power/
sturdiness with more portability.
THE NOT-SO-GOOD:
As it’s a desktop only unit (and wider than a normal
rack), you can’t add it to your stage rack – it needs
to be placed on a fl at surface instead.
In the studio
THE GOOD:
Form factor is great for the studio. Very distinctive
state-variable fi lter character screams Oberheim.
All controls send/receive MIDI plus the sequencer
and arpeggiator are great idea generators.
THE NOT-SO-GOOD:
No rack option or patch naming (except in the
editor), there’s no audio input for running through
the fi lter/effects, no CV facilities or multi-timbral
operation. Only one LFO.
On stage
THE GOOD:
As the P6M features the same sound engine and
features as the keyboard but in a more compact
form, you can have the same killer sonic power/
sturdiness with more portability.
THE NOT-SO-GOOD:
As it’s a desktop only unit (and wider than a normal
rack), you can’t add it to your stage rack – it has to
be placed on a fl at surface instead.
In the studio
THE GOOD:
A full P6 in compact desktop form. Separate LPF/
HPF, with lots of thickness/chewiness; earthy and
warm yet cutting. All controls send/receive MIDI
plus the sequencer and arp help generate ideas.
THE NOT-SO-GOOD:
No rack mount option or patch naming (except in
the editor), no audio input for running through the
fi lter/effects and no CV facilities or multi-timbral
operation. Only one LFO.
Value
It’s expensive but solid and reliable and offers
everything you’d likely want for reproducing
authentic Oberheim poly sounds, leads and basses.
Currently its features/sound are unique at this
price point.
Who’ll get the most
out of it?
Anyone looking for a sturdy, reliable, great-
sounding and more distinctive/characterful poly
with effects. Those who want the unmistakable
Obie sound, with more modern facilities and
without the headaches/expense of vintage.
Value
While it’s expensive, it offers everything you’d likely
want for producing bread and butter poly, lead
and bass sounds and more besides. Currently its
features/sound are unique at its price point.
Who’ll get the most
out of it?
Anyone looking for a sturdy, reliable, great-
sounding and versatile analogue poly with effects.
Those who want the Prophet-5 vibe with more
modern facilities without the headaches/expense
of vintage.
Dave Smith Instruments
OB-6 module
Dave Smith Instruments
Prophet-6 Module
94
Reviews | DSI OB-6 and Prophet-6 Modules
FMU313.rev_dsi.indd 94 30/11/2016 16:31