Oberheim SE Obie Rack 2-Voice SEM Synthesizer 1990's Black Rare

In near mint condition.

The Studio Electronics Obie Rack is a highly sought-after, rare vintage analog synthesizer module custom-crafted by Studio Electronics. It features two original vintage Oberheim Synthesizer Expander Modules (SEM) retrofitted into a unified rackmount enclosure. This design effectively creates a highly portable, MIDI-capable version of the legendary Oberheim Two-Voice (TVS) synthesizer. [1, 2, 3, 4]

Core Specifications & Architecture

• Dual SEM Architecture: Contains two separate, authentic vintage Oberheim SEM boards (typically dating from the late 1970s). [, 2]
• Voice Configuration: Features 4 Voltage-Controlled Oscillators (VCOs), 2 Multi-mode Voltage-Controlled Filters (VCFs), and 4 Envelope Generators. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
• Unique Filter Section: Retains the classic Oberheim continuous multi-mode filter, which smoothly sweeps between Low-Pass, Notch, and High-Pass modes, plus a dedicated Bandpass mode. [1, 2]
• Polyphony Modes: Includes a polyphony selection switch to toggle between true 2-voice polyphonic play or layered monophonic unison stacking for massive bass and lead lines. [1, 2]

Studio Electronics Custom Modifications

Unlike stock vintage units, Studio Electronics heavily modified these systems during the conversion process to integrate them into modern studio workflows: []

• Advanced MIDI Implementation: Adds complete MIDI control over note-on/off, MIDI channel selection, and multi-triggering settings.
• Modulation & Dynamics: Integrates modern velocity and aftertouch routing options directly to the VCF and VCA sections.
• Form Factor: Converts the historically bulky Two-Voice design into a standard, road-ready rack mount enclosure featuring stereo outputs. [1, 2]