discoDSP has released OB-Xd 3.5, a major update for the “free” Oberheim emulation plugin with new features, plus a new iOS (iPad only) version with a catch.
One of the most downloaded free synthesizers is the open-source OB-Xd, which emulates the Oberheim OB-X. Since the takeover of discoDSP, a lot has changed. The plugin has been constantly further developed, which is great to see, but it has also been turned more into a commercial plugin.
You can still download the latest version of the plugin for free, but it has limitations: It can only be used for non-commercial projects, and it does not include VST3, AAX, or LV2 (Linux) versions.
Why I’m talking about the OB-Xd: there is a new 3.5 version and a new iOS release. The latter has a catch for existing users.
discoDSP OB-Xd 3.5
discoDSP has expanded and revised the OB-Xd plugin throughout the year in many places. In version 3.0, they enhanced the oscillator and filter with new features, like pulse width offset for oscillator 2, advanced filter with self-oscillation at high resonance, new attack envelope shape, LFO sync, and more.
In version 3.2, discoDSP also added unison of up to 16 voices. Now, OB-Xd 3.5 is out and brings other improvements. First, they added a new theme (Ilkka Rosma Blue Theme) inspired by the classic Oberheim OB-Xa, giving the synth a new look.
Then, it comes with new MIDI functionality, including virtual MIDI out support for macOS users. The MIDI In channel recalls its internal state, and the MIDI Out configuration gets a bidirectional communication makeover using an external MIDI.XML file.
Another new feature is only available to paying users. You can now work with automatic 4x oversampling for offline bounces, delivering higher sound quality. It’s a pity that it’s reserved for paying people.
discoDSP OB-Xd (iOS – iPad only)
Somewhat surprisingly, discoDSP also released a new iOS (iPad only) version yesterday with the features of the 3.5 version. As a reminder, the original iOS version is always suitable for commercial use as there is no free version.
Instead of updating the existing app, discoDSP has released a new OB-Xd app, also available for purchase. Thus, if you want the new features, you must leave your €/$ in the AppStore. In return, you get the engine, features, and look of the current VST version.
The new OB-Xd (AUv3) offers the same updated DSP engine as the desktop version, cross-platform compatibility with the patches, MIDI keyboard improvements, a new user interface, and more little tweaks. Like the previous version, it runs standalone and as an AUv3 plugin.
First Impression
I have to admit that I had a bit of a stomachache while writing this news. That’s because the super popular open-source, free Synthesizer plugin is getting more and more limitations.
The plugin is still “free” but only for “non-commercial” users. All plugin formats, plus the 4x oversampling, are reserved for paying customers. You can see that discoDSP is slowly turning the OB-Xd into more of a commercial synth. But I’m unsure how many people will spend $99 on it.
Conversely, the plugin is still available as a free downloader under the “non-commercial” condition, which has to be proven. Thanks, discoDSP, for this.
The development of iOS makes me more unhappy. While it’s cool that the iOS version is now on the same level as the VST version, it’s unpleased that the original app is being dropped in favor of a new paid app that is basically a paid update.
I would have liked a bundle for existing users who can switch for a little money. Or, better yet, just a free app update.
I appreciate the work discoDSP put into the synth, and the work should be paid. But it can also make it a bit more moderate as a $99 for the VST or
$12.99 intro. Ask for less, and more people will update it and see it as a donation for your work.
Availability
discoDSP OB-Xd 3.5 is available now as a free download for non-commercial usage or $99 in a commercial version. The update is free of charge for both versions. Both versions run on macOS (native Apple Silicon + Intel), Linux, and Windows.
The non-commercial version offers a standalone app and VST2 and AU plugin, while the commercial VST2, VST3, AU, AAX, and LV2.
The new OB-Xd AUv3 is available now on the Apple AppStore for an introductory price of $12,99. iOS (iPad) users do not have an upgrade path or bundle option.
More information here: discoDSP
On topic. I’ll try the new version out.
(Moderation – stay on topic!, no off topic) thanks!)
This new OB-XD version for iOS is soooo good, that I canceld my Beringer UB-XA D. 15€ for this massive authentic sound for touchscreen is a bargain!
Competent programmers working for the glory are rare these days, all of them tends to want to pay their rent, food, University for their kids etc.
14.99€ just swiped on my card, and I’m very happy!
sure we all work to pay our bills. Good to hear that you are happy 🙂
It DOES sounds great althou for midi you gotta host it.
How is this compared to the arturia version or synapse audio obsession? I am going to download it most likely but wanted to know what others think.
The Arturia version and the Synapse models the OB-Xa while the discoDSP and GForce models the OB-X. So two different synths as they have different filters, and more. From the quality point, the Arturia is a bit outdated and doesn’t sound super close.
The Synapse Audio and GForce are here top notch, The discoDSP is also on a high level since the 3.5 version in the 4x oversampling mode (only in the paid version). Personally, I would get the GForce oder Synapse in a good deal as they offer free updates. discoDSP is always risky as they charge for full version updates. Not sure how they handles it here.
I had the old app for my iPad and purchased the new version for $13 USD. The user interface and the management of presets/patches is much improved (in addition to the other enhancements listed in the article). I think this is absolutely worth the price of the new app and do not fault the developer at all for releasing a new app. The quality of this synth is spectacular!