The TE0-5 is the latest addition to Oberheim’s series of polyphonic synthesizers, positioned as an entry-level model in terms of price and polyphony. Despite its lower cost, the TE0-5 offers a range of features and modulation options that surpass many of its higher-end counterparts. Developed in collaboration with Thomas L. Roy Oberheim and produced by Sequential, the TE0-5 shares a platform with Sequential’s Take 5, but it distinguishes itself with a unique central analog section, including analog oscillators, a state-variable filter, and extensive digital modulation, control, and effects.
The TE0-5 features a 5-voice polyphony, which, while modest, is supported by two main oscillators, a sub-oscillator, and a noise generator, all controllable via a robust modulation matrix. It includes a versatile 12 dB per octave, two-pole state variable filter capable of morphing from low-pass to high-pass through either notch or bandpass modes. This filter provides a distinct sound character that sets the TE0-5 apart from other models, particularly the Take 5, which features a single-mode low-pass filter.
The synthesizer is designed with a hands-on approach, offering numerous knobs and buttons for direct access to various functions, complemented by hidden functionalities accessible through the modulation matrix and program menus. The build quality is solid, with a metal enclosure and high-quality controls that ensure durability and a premium feel.
In terms of connectivity, the TE0-5 includes a headphone output, two quarter-inch unbalanced outputs, and inputs for expression and sustain pedals. It also features MIDI in, out, and through, along with a USB type B port for MIDI communication and compatibility with third-party software editors. Calibration is a straightforward process, essential for maintaining tuning stability, especially given the analog nature of the synth.
The TE0-5 combines affordability with a rich feature set, making it an appealing choice for musicians looking for a versatile and powerful polyphonic synthesizer that offers both classic analog warmth and modern digital flexibility.
Oscillators
The TE0-5 features a comprehensive oscillator section, starting with two main oscillators, a sub-oscillator, and a noise generator. Each of the main oscillators can generate three fundamental wave shapes: saw, square, and triangle. Unlike some synthesizers that allow morphing between wave shapes, the TE0-5 lets you combine any two shapes, offering greater flexibility in sound design. This combination can significantly alter the timbre, with a saw and triangle wave producing a deeper, bassier tone, while a square and triangle wave results in reduced bass.
The oscillators are controlled through a single coarse tuning knob covering a range of five octaves for both oscillators, and a detune knob for fine-tuning the second oscillator relative to the first. This setup simplifies the tuning process but sacrifices some of the fine control offered by having separate octave and fine-tune knobs.
Additionally, the TE0-5 includes a sub-oscillator that generates a square wave, which can be configured to white or pink noise via the program menu. The noise generator further expands the sonic palette, useful for adding texture and complexity to patches.
One unique feature of the TE0-5 is its handling of pulse width modulation. While there is no dedicated pulse width modulation control, users can easily assign one of the LFOs to modulate the pulse width by holding down the destination button and turning the pulse width knob. This assignment provides dynamic movement within the sound, essential for creating evolving textures.
The TE0-5 also incorporates oscillator sync and through-zero FM (Frequency Modulation). Oscillator sync forces oscillator 1 to restart its cycle based on oscillator 2’s frequency, creating complex harmonic structures. Through-zero FM, on the other hand, allows oscillator 2 to modulate oscillator 1’s frequency through zero, preserving the pitch stability across a wider range and producing a variety of metallic and bell-like tones.
These oscillators, combined with the modulation options, provide a versatile foundation for sound design, making the TE0-5 capable of producing everything from rich, analog basses and leads to intricate, evolving soundscapes. The thoughtful design and robust feature set ensure that users have the tools needed to explore and create a vast array of sounds.
Cross-Modulation
The TE0-5’s cross modulation capabilities significantly enhance its sound design potential, offering intricate and dynamic timbral possibilities. Cross modulation, or CrossMod, is a feature where one oscillator modulates another’s frequency, adding complex harmonic content and creating unique sonic textures. The TE0-5 supports both traditional oscillator sync and through-zero FM (Frequency Modulation), providing a broad range of tonal options.
Oscillator sync in the TE0-5 resets the cycle of oscillator 1 based on the frequency of oscillator 2. This method creates a harmonically rich and aggressive sound, often described as metallic or brassy. It is particularly useful for generating cutting leads and sync-sweep effects. The key to achieving pleasing results with oscillator sync is to ensure that oscillator 2’s frequency is lower than oscillator 1’s, even if oscillator 2 is not heard in the final output.
Through-zero FM is another powerful feature in the TE0-5 . Unlike standard FM, which can often lead to tuning instability and unpredictable pitch shifts, through-zero FM maintains pitch stability across the modulation range. This method allows oscillator 2 to modulate oscillator 1’s frequency through zero, producing complex bell-like or metallic sounds without the typical pitch deviations. This makes it highly playable and musically useful, even in more extreme settings.
The TE0-5’s implementation of cross modulation uses a triangle waveform for oscillator 2 as the modulation source, regardless of the wave shape selected for oscillator 2 in the main oscillator section. This choice provides a smoother and more predictable modulation characteristic, enhancing the usability and musicality of the cross modulation effects. Users can further shape the sound by selecting different waveforms for oscillator 1, which affects the timbre and harmonic complexity of the modulation result.
Modulating the cross modulation depth adds another layer of expressiveness to the TE0-5. By assigning an LFO or an envelope to the cross modulation depth, users can create evolving and dynamic sounds that shift and change over time. This approach allows for the creation of sounds that range from subtle and nuanced to wild and unpredictable, expanding the sonic palette of the TE0-5 considerably.
The cross modulation capabilities of the TE0-5 provide a rich and versatile toolset for sound designers and musicians. Whether creating lush, evolving textures or sharp, cutting leads, the cross modulation features offer a wide array of timbral possibilities that set the TE0-5 apart from other synthesizers in its class.
Filters
The TE0-5 features a 12 dB per octave, two-pole state-variable filter, which stands out for its flexibility and unique sound-shaping capabilities. This filter can morph between low-pass, notch, and high-pass modes, with a band-pass option available through the program menu. This morphing ability provides a wide range of tonal variations and is a key aspect of the TE0-5’s distinctive character.
The filter does not self-oscillate, which is a common feature in many analog synthesizers, but it compensates with a smooth resonance that maintains bass frequencies even at high settings. This ensures that the filter can produce pronounced peaks and sweeps without losing the low-end presence, making it ideal for both bass-heavy sounds and resonant, cutting leads.
A standout feature of the TE0-5 ‘s filter is its pre-filter drive. This allows for additional harmonic richness and warmth by pushing the input signal harder before it hits the filter, creating a pleasantly saturated and crunchy sound. This drive can be particularly effective when combined with the filter’s resonance, adding a layer of grit and character that enhances the overall sound.
The morphing capability of the filter is highly versatile. In its default state, it transitions smoothly from low-pass through notch to high-pass, which is useful for creating evolving textures and sweeps. By selecting the band-pass mode in the menu, users can achieve a focused, mid-range peak that is excellent for isolating specific frequencies and creating distinctive, punchy sounds.
The filter also supports key tracking, which allows the cutoff frequency to follow the pitch of the notes being played. This is useful for maintaining harmonic consistency across the keyboard and ensuring that the filter’s effect is musically relevant to the notes being played. Additionally, the filter can be modulated by the envelopes and LFOs, providing dynamic control over the cutoff frequency and resonance, which is essential for creating evolving and expressive sounds.
Another notable feature is the ability to ping the filter. When the resonance is set high enough, short, sharp bursts of noise can trigger a ringing sound from the filter, which can be used creatively to add percussive elements or resonant accents to patches. This behavior mimics the response of classic analog filters and adds to the TE0-5’s versatility.
The TE0-5’s filter is a powerful and flexible tool that significantly contributes to the synthesizer’s overall sound design capabilities. Its ability to morph between different filter types, combined with pre-filter drive and comprehensive modulation options, makes it a standout feature that enhances the richness and depth of the TE0-5’s sonic palette.
Effects
The TE0-5 offers a robust suite of effects, enhancing its sound design capabilities and providing users with tools to further shape their tones. The effects section includes an overdrive, a reverb, and a versatile effects slot that can be configured with various effects types, making it a comprehensive and flexible addition to the synthesizer.
The overdrive effect adds a layer of harmonic richness and grit, perfect for thickening up sounds and adding an aggressive edge. This effect can range from subtle warmth to intense distortion, making it suitable for a wide range of applications from gentle enhancement to full-on sonic destruction.
The reverb effect is essential for adding space and depth to sounds. It features controls for dry/wet mix, size, pre-delay, decay, and tone, allowing users to craft anything from a small room ambiance to vast, cavernous spaces. The tone control is particularly useful for shaping the reverb’s character, ensuring it complements the source sound without overwhelming it.
The primary effects slot is highly configurable, offering a variety of options that include several types of delays, chorus, flanger, phaser, high-pass filter, distortion, ring modulator, rotating speaker, and lo-fi effects. The delay effects are particularly noteworthy, with options for stereo delays and a bucket brigade delay that emulates classic analog delay units. These delays can be tempo-synced or free-running, providing rhythmic and atmospheric possibilities.
The chorus effect adds a rich, detuned character to sounds, thickening them up and adding movement. It includes controls for rate, depth, and low-pass cutoff, allowing precise shaping of the chorus effect to suit different needs. The flanger and phaser effects offer classic modulation options, with controls for rate, depth, and feedback, adding swirling, sweeping motion to sounds.
The high-pass filter effect allows for additional frequency shaping, useful for cleaning up low-end frequencies or creating more focused, cutting tones. The distortion effect in this slot provides a more aggressive alternative to the overdrive, with controls for tone, output level, and gain, delivering intense and crunchy sounds.
The ring modulator adds a unique, metallic texture, with controls for frequency, mix, and pitch tracking. This effect is excellent for creating otherworldly and experimental sounds. The rotating speaker effect emulates the classic Leslie speaker, adding a dynamic, rotating motion to the sound, with controls for speed, drive, and mic distance. Finally, the lo-fi effect introduces bit-crushing and sample-rate reduction, perfect for adding a gritty, vintage digital character.
These effects are easily accessible and can be quickly tweaked using the dedicated controls on the front panel. The ability to modulate effect parameters through the mod matrix adds another layer of depth, allowing users to create dynamic, evolving soundscapes. Overall, the TE0-5’s effects section significantly enhances its sonic versatility, making it a powerful tool for both studio production and live performance.
Unison Mode
The TE0-5’s unison mode enhances its polyphonic capabilities by allowing multiple voices to be stacked together, creating thicker and more powerful sounds. In unison mode, up to five voices can be combined, significantly enriching the overall texture and impact of the sound. This feature is particularly useful for creating massive leads, fat basses, and lush pads.
The unison mode includes a detune function, which spreads the pitch of each voice slightly apart, adding richness and depth. This detune parameter is adjustable, enabling fine control over the degree of detuning, from subtle chorusing effects to extreme detuning for a more dramatic impact. Additionally, the TE0-5 includes a vintage knob, which adds further variability by simulating the slight imperfections found in vintage analog synthesizers, making the sound more organic and alive.
Beyond basic unison stacking, the TE0-5 also offers a chord mode. This mode allows users to play a chord, and then have that chord shape applied polyphonically across the keyboard. To activate chord mode, simply hold the desired chord and press the unison button, making it a quick and intuitive process. This feature is particularly useful for creating harmonically rich patches and complex, evolving textures.
The unison button also provides access to other useful functions such as portamento and oscillator glide, which add smooth transitions between notes. These features can be adjusted in the program menu, allowing for customized glide times and behaviors, adding further expressiveness to the performance.
The unison mode in the TE0-5 is a powerful tool for sound designers and performers alike. It significantly broadens the sonic palette by enabling the creation of dense, layered sounds that cut through a mix. Whether used subtly to add depth or aggressively to create towering, epic sounds, the unison mode adds a valuable dimension to the TE0-5’s capabilities.
Modulation
The TE0-5 offers extensive modulation capabilities, providing users with a robust framework for creating dynamic and evolving sounds. At the heart of the modulation system are two low-frequency oscillators (LFOs) and two envelopes, both of which can be extensively routed to various parameters via the modulation matrix.
The two LFOs are distinct in their functionality. LFO 1 is a global LFO, meaning it applies the same modulation across all voices, while LFO 2 is polyphonic, providing a separate LFO for each voice. This distinction allows for complex and nuanced modulation effects, with LFO 2 enabling per-voice modulation that can create intricate, evolving textures. Each LFO offers the standard waveforms: sine, triangle, square, sawtooth, and random (sample and hold), with a frequency range extending up to 500 Hz, allowing for both slow, sweeping modulations and audio-rate modulations that can impart a gritty, FM-like character to the sound.
The two ADSR envelopes provide precise control over amplitude and filter modulation. These envelopes can be assigned to various parameters, not only controlling the filter cutoff and amplifier volume but also being routed to other destinations within the modulation matrix. The TE0-5 includes a dedicated amount control for each envelope, allowing for quick adjustments to the modulation depth directly from the front panel. Additional envelope parameters can be accessed through the program menu, including envelope delay and loop functions, which can add further complexity and rhythmic variation to the modulation.
The modulation matrix is a powerful feature, offering 19 slots for routing modulation sources to destinations. Each slot can be configured with a source, destination, and amount, providing immense flexibility in shaping the sound. Sources include the LFOs, envelopes, velocity, aftertouch, and even external MIDI controllers. Destinations cover a wide range of parameters, including oscillator pitch, filter cutoff, LFO rates, and effect parameters. The matrix allows for quick assignments via the front panel, enabling intuitive and immediate sound shaping.
One of the standout features is the ability to modulate modulation itself. For example, an envelope can control the depth of an LFO modulation, creating evolving modulations that change over time. This meta-modulation capability significantly expands the creative possibilities, allowing for complex, layered soundscapes that respond dynamically to performance nuances.
The TE0-5 also includes a vintage knob, which serves as a global modulation source to simulate the behavior of vintage analog synths. This knob introduces slight variations in pitch, filter cutoff, and envelope times, mimicking the natural instability of older hardware. This feature adds a layer of warmth and unpredictability, making the sound more organic and alive.
The TE0-5’s modulation capabilities are a highlight of the synthesizer, providing a versatile and powerful toolset for sound design. Whether creating subtle, evolving textures or wild, dynamic modulations, the modulation system offers the flexibility and control needed to bring any sonic idea to life.
Arpeggiator and Sequencer
The TE0-5 is equipped with a highly functional arpeggiator and a straightforward sequencer, both of which add significant performance and creative capabilities to the synthesizer.
The arpeggiator is designed for hands-on control, offering various modes such as up, down, up and down, random, and a programmable sequence mode. Users can span the arpeggiator across up to three octaves and adjust the number of repeats for each note in the sequence, allowing for intricate and dynamic arpeggios. The arpeggiator also includes a hold function, which sustains the arpeggio pattern even after the keys are released, freeing up hands for other performance tasks.
One of the standout features of the arpeggiator is its relatch mode. When relatch is enabled, playing a new chord in hold mode will replace the current arpeggio with a new one based on the newly played chord. Disabling relatch allows notes to be added to the existing arpeggio in real time, making it act more like a live sequencer. This flexibility allows for creative real-time manipulation and evolving patterns during performances.
The arpeggiator can also be quantized to ensure that chord changes and pattern updates occur in sync with the beat, maintaining rhythmic integrity and making it easier to integrate with other sequenced elements in a track. This quantization feature is particularly useful for live performance, ensuring smooth transitions and maintaining groove.
The sequencer on the TE0-5 , while basic, is a powerful tool for creating patterns and sequences. It allows for real-time recording of notes and chords, capturing up to a limited number of steps. Users can insert rests and ties to create more complex rhythms and longer note durations. Once a sequence is recorded, it can be played back and transposed in real time by holding the record button and pressing different keys, adding another layer of performance flexibility.
Two particularly useful features of the sequencer are its ability to play on top of a sequence and the option to transpose sequences. Playing over a sequence allows musicians to layer additional notes or melodies without stopping the main sequence, creating richer and more intricate performances. Transposing a sequence on the fly enables quick key changes and harmonic variations, which is especially beneficial for live performances or dynamic studio sessions.
Sequences are saved with presets, ensuring that any custom sequences are retained and recalled whenever a preset is loaded. This integration is seamless and supports a fluid workflow, allowing users to quickly switch between different sounds and sequences during a session.
The arpeggiator and sequencer on the TE0-5 are well-designed tools that enhance both live performance and studio production. They provide intuitive control, flexibility, and creative possibilities, making the TE0-5 a versatile instrument for musicians and producers alike.
Software Companion
The TE0-5 doesn’t come with an official software companion, but a third-party company, SoundTower, offers a software and plugin companion that integrates seamlessly with the synthesizer. This software provides an enhanced interface for managing and editing the TE0-5’s parameters, making it a valuable tool for both studio work and live performance.
The SoundTower software allows users to view and edit the TE0-5’s parameters on a computer screen, which can be more convenient than using the smaller onboard display. This visual interface is particularly useful for managing complex patches and modulation setups, as it provides a clearer overview of all the settings and their interrelationships. The software stays in sync with the hardware, meaning that changes made on the synthesizer are immediately reflected in the software and vice versa.
One of the key features of the SoundTower software is its preset management system. Users can quickly browse, organize, and rename presets, making it easier to keep track of custom sounds and configurations. The software also includes tools for backing up and restoring presets, ensuring that users can safeguard their work and easily transfer patches between different projects or devices.
The preset morpher is a standout feature of the software, allowing users to blend between two different presets to create new and unique sounds. This tool can be hit or miss, but it often results in interesting and unexpected textures that can spark new creative ideas. By selecting two presets and morphing between them, users can explore a wide range of intermediate sounds, providing a fresh approach to sound design.
In addition to preset management and the preset morpher, the SoundTower software provides detailed access to the TE0-5’s modulation matrix. This feature allows for more precise control over modulation routings and depths, with a visual representation that simplifies the process of creating complex modulation schemes. The ability to see all modulation connections at a glance helps users understand and tweak their patches more effectively.
The software also facilitates quicker and more intuitive editing of effects parameters. Given that some effect parameters are not labeled on the hardware, the software interface clarifies these settings and makes it easier to experiment with different effect configurations. This enhanced control is particularly beneficial for fine-tuning reverb, delay, and modulation effects to fit perfectly within a mix.
The SoundTower software companion for the TE0-5 significantly enhances the user experience, providing a more intuitive and efficient way to interact with the synthesizer’s deep feature set. It bridges the gap between hardware and software, making the TE0-5 an even more powerful tool for music production and performance.
Pros and Cons
The TE0-5 offers a compelling blend of features and sound quality that make it a strong contender in the polyphonic synthesizer market. However, like any instrument, it has its strengths and weaknesses.
On the positive side, the TE0-5 excels in sound quality. The analog oscillators and state-variable filter produce rich, warm tones that are highly sought after in both classic and modern music production. The through-zero FM and extensive modulation options add significant depth and versatility, allowing for a wide range of sounds from lush pads to sharp, cutting leads. The build quality is solid, with a sturdy metal enclosure and high-quality controls that feel great to use.
The effects section is another highlight, providing a broad array of options that enhance the synthesizer’s sonic capabilities. The morphing filter and pre-filter drive add unique tonal characteristics that set the TE0-5 apart from other synthesizers in its class. Additionally, the unison mode and chord mode expand its performance capabilities, making it a versatile tool for both live and studio settings.
The arpeggiator and sequencer add further creative potential, with intuitive controls and useful features like quantization and real-time transposition. The third-party software companion by SoundTower enhances usability by providing a detailed visual interface for editing and managing presets, which is especially useful for complex patches and extensive modulation setups.
However, there are some downsides to consider. The TE0-5’s five-voice polyphony can be limiting, particularly for those who want to play complex chords or use long release times without voice stealing. While the TE0-5 is positioned as an entry-level model in terms of polyphony and price, it still represents a significant investment, and its limited polyphony might be a drawback for some users.
Another potential downside is the lack of a dedicated mixer section for the oscillators. Users must rely on menu diving to adjust oscillator levels, which can be less intuitive than having physical controls. The small screen, while functional, may also be a limitation for users who prefer a more visual and less menu-driven interface.
The single-timbral nature of the TE0-5 means it cannot layer different sounds or split the keyboard for bi-timbral performance, which could be a drawback for those looking for more versatility in live setups. Additionally, some features like the effect parameters are not labeled on the hardware, requiring users to refer to the software companion or the manual for detailed adjustments.
To sum it up, the TE0-5 is a powerful and versatile synthesizer with excellent sound quality and a rich feature set, making it a valuable tool for many music producers and performers. However, its limitations in polyphony, interface design, and timbrality may not suit everyone’s needs, and potential buyers should consider these factors when evaluating whether it meets their specific requirements.
Verdict
The Oberheim TE0-5 Polyphonic Synthesizer presents a well-rounded package for musicians and producers looking for a blend of classic analog warmth and modern digital flexibility. Its standout features include high-quality oscillators, a versatile state-variable filter, and an extensive array of modulation options. These elements contribute to its rich, dynamic sound that can easily adapt to various musical styles and genres.
One of the most significant advantages of the TE0-5 is its exceptional sound quality. The analog components deliver a depth and warmth that are highly valued in both studio production and live performance. The through-zero FM and morphing filter add unique sonic possibilities, allowing users to craft sounds that range from traditional to experimental.
The TE0-5’s user interface, while robust and hands-on, strikes a good balance between immediate access to essential controls and deeper parameter tweaking through the modulation matrix and program menus. This makes it suitable for both quick sound adjustments during live performances and detailed sound design sessions in the studio.
The inclusion of a comprehensive effects section further enhances the TE0-5’s appeal, providing tools to add depth, space, and character to its already impressive sound. The unison and chord modes expand its performance capabilities, making it a versatile instrument for various musical contexts.
However, the TE0-5 is not without its drawbacks. The five-voice polyphony, while sufficient for many applications, may be limiting for those who require more extensive chordal and polyphonic capabilities. Additionally, the lack of a dedicated mixer section for the oscillators and the small screen might make some users prefer a more visual or tactile interface.
The single-timbral nature and the need for occasional menu diving to access certain features could also be seen as limitations, particularly in live performance scenarios where quick adjustments are crucial. While the third-party software companion helps mitigate some of these issues, it would be more convenient if these features were more accessible directly on the hardware.
The Oberheim TE0-5 Polyphonic Synthesizer is a powerful and versatile instrument that excels in sound quality and modulation capabilities. Its combination of analog warmth and digital precision makes it a valuable addition to any musician’s arsenal. Despite some limitations in polyphony and interface design, it offers a compelling mix of features that can inspire creativity and enhance musical expression. For those seeking a high-quality, flexible synthesizer with a distinctive sound, the TE0-5 is well worth considering.