Polybrute vs OB-6 vs Prophet 6: Which Synthesizer Should You Choose?
The Polybrute is a new addition to the Brute family and offers a wide range of modulation options, while the OB-6 and Prophet 6 are both well-established classics with their own loyal fan bases.
The Prophet 6 is known for its lush and deep pads, arpeggio sequence sounds, and huge sweet spot.
The OB-6, on the other hand, has a more aggressive sound with more high frequencies and is considered to be more interesting.
The Polybrute offers a brutish sound with warm tones and plenty of modulation options, making it a versatile and powerful synth.
With so many options, it’s essential to consider your personal preferences and musical needs when making a decision.
Overview of Polybrute, OB-6, and Prophet-6
If you’re in the market for a high-quality analog synthesizer, you may be considering the Polybrute, OB-6, or Prophet-6.
Each of these synthesizers has its own unique features and capabilities, and deciding which one is right for you can be a challenge.
Here’s a brief overview of each synthesizer to help you make an informed decision.
Polybrute
- Analog Morphing Synthesizer with 6 voices of Polyphony, Mono/Unison/Poly voicing and Single/Split/Layer modes
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The Polybrute is a powerful and versatile synthesizer that offers six voices of polyphony and a wide range of modulation options.
It features a unique morphing function that allows you to blend between two different patches in real-time, as well as a powerful modulation matrix that gives you complete control over every aspect of your sound.
The Polybrute also includes a built-in effects section with three stereo effects slots, including delay, reverb, chorus, and more.
It also has a built-in arpeggiator and step sequencer, making it a great choice for live performance and studio recording.
OB-6
- Designed by Dave Smith Six discrete analog voices 64-step sequencer Arpeggiator, phase shifter Deadly ring modulator
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The OB-6 is a collaboration between legendary synthesizer designer Dave Smith and synth manufacturer Tom Oberheim.
It features a classic two-oscillator design with a 24dB/octave low-pass filter, as well as a range of modern features like a polyphonic step sequencer and arpeggiator.
The OB-6 has a warm and rich sound that is perfect for creating classic analog synth sounds, and it also includes a range of modern features like a dual effects section and a programmable stereo distortion.
Prophet-6
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The Prophet-6 is a modern take on the classic Prophet-5 synthesizer, with a similar two-oscillator design and a 24dB/octave low-pass filter.
It features a range of modern features like a polyphonic step sequencer and arpeggiator, as well as a built-in effects section with delay, reverb, chorus, and more.
The Prophet-6 has a warm and rich sound that is perfect for creating classic analog synth sounds, and it also includes a range of modern features like a dual effects section and a programmable stereo distortion.
In summary, the Polybrute, OB-6, and Prophet-6 are all excellent analog synthesizers with their own unique features and capabilities.
Choosing the right one for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences, so be sure to try them out and compare them before making a decision.
Sound Comparison
When it comes to choosing between the Polybrute, OB-6, and Prophet-6, the sound characteristics of each synth are an important factor to consider.
Here’s a breakdown of the sound characteristics of each synth:
Polybrute Sound Characteristics
The Polybrute is known for its warm and rich sound, thanks to its analog signal path and 6-voice polyphony.
It has a wide range of sonic possibilities, thanks to its 3 oscillators per voice, 2 LFOs, and a modulation matrix that allows for complex routing options.
The Polybrute also has a sequencer matrix that can be used to create complex sequences, making it a great choice for electronic music producers and sound designers.
OB-6 Sound Characteristics
The OB-6 is a classic synth with a distinctive sound that has been used on countless recordings over the years.
It has a 6-voice polyphony and a 2-oscillator per voice design, which gives it a rich and full sound.
The OB-6 is known for its filter, which is based on the classic SEM filter design and gives it a warm and smooth sound.
It also has a built-in arpeggiator and a simple but effective modulation section.
Prophet-6 Sound Characteristics
The Prophet-6 is another classic synth that has been used on countless recordings over the years.
It has a 6-voice polyphony and a 2-oscillator per voice design, which gives it a warm and full sound.
The Prophet-6 is known for its filter, which is based on the classic Prophet-5 design and gives it a bright and punchy sound.
It also has a built-in arpeggiator and a more complex modulation section than the OB-6.
Overall, each synth has its own unique sound characteristics that make it a great choice for different types of music production and sound design.
Whether you prefer the warm and rich sound of the Polybrute, the classic sound of the OB-6, or the bright and punchy sound of the Prophet-6, there’s a synth out there that’s perfect for you.
Features Comparison
When deciding between the Polybrute, OB-6, and Prophet-6, it’s important to consider the features of each synth.
Here’s a breakdown of each one:
Polybrute Features
The Polybrute is a powerful and versatile synthesizer with a number of unique features that set it apart from the OB-6 and Prophet-6.
Some of its standout features include:
- 6-voice analog architecture
- 61-note keyboard with aftertouch
- Morphing capabilities with the Morphée pad
- Sequencer matrix for intuitive modulation
- 3 Brute oscillators with waveshaping and FM
- Steiner-Parker filter with 12dB/octave slope and continuously variable LP/BP/HP modes
- Dual stereo analog effects
OB-6 Features
The OB-6 is a classic-sounding synth with a modern twist.
It’s a collaboration between Dave Smith and Tom Oberheim, and it combines the best of both worlds.
Some of its key features include:
- 6-voice analog architecture
- 49-key semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch
- Dual discrete VCOs with pulse, sawtooth, and triangle waves
- Classic Oberheim SEM filter with 12dB/octave slope and continuously variable LP/BP/HP modes
- Dual effects section with reverb, delay, chorus, and phase shifter
Prophet-6 Features
The Prophet-6 is a modern take on a classic synth.
It’s a faithful recreation of the original Prophet-5, with a few modern updates. Some of its standout features include:
- 6-voice analog architecture
- 49-key semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch
- Two newly-designed, discrete VCOs per voice
- Classic Prophet-5 filter with 24dB/octave slope and continuously variable LP/BP/HP modes
- Dual effects section with reverb, delay, chorus, and flanger
Overall, each of these synths has its own unique features and strengths.
The Polybrute offers unparalleled modulation capabilities, while the OB-6 has a classic Oberheim sound.
The Prophet-6 is a faithful recreation of the original Prophet-5, with a few modern updates. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs.
Price Comparison
When it comes to purchasing a synthesizer, price is always a significant factor to consider.
The Polybrute, OB-6, and Prophet 6 all come with a hefty price tag, and you want to make sure you’re getting the best value for your money.
The Polybrute is the most expensive of the three, with a retail price of around $3,399.
It’s a high-end synth that comes with a lot of features and capabilities, including a sequencer matrix, modulation options, and more.
However, it may not be the best option if you’re on a tight budget.
The OB-6 and Prophet 6 are both priced similarly, with the OB-6 being slightly more expensive at around $3,299, while the Prophet 6 is around $2,799.
Both synths are known for their exceptional sound quality and reliability, and they’re great options for musicians who want a classic analog sound.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the Prophet 6 may be the way to go.
It’s still a high-quality synth with a lot of features, but it comes at a lower price point than the other two options.
However, if you’re looking for more versatility and modulation options, the Polybrute may be worth the extra investment.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your budget and what features and capabilities you’re looking for in a synthesizer.
It’s important to do your research and consider all of your options before making a purchase.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between the Polybrute, OB-6, and Prophet 6, there are a few things to consider.
Each synthesizer has its strengths and weaknesses, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you plan to use it for.
The Polybrute is a versatile synthesizer that offers a wide range of modulation options, making it a great choice for sound designers and experimental musicians.
However, it may not be the best option for those who prefer a more traditional sound.
The OB-6 is a classic-sounding synthesizer with a bit of an edge, making it a great choice for those who want to add some character to their sound.
It’s also a bit more affordable than the other two options, which may be a deciding factor for some.
The Prophet 6 is a lush-sounding synthesizer with a sweet spot that many musicians love.
It’s great for creating pads and arpeggios, and it’s also a bit more versatile than the OB-6 in terms of sound design.
Ultimately, the choice between these three synthesizers comes down to personal preference and what you plan to use it for.
If you’re looking for a versatile synthesizer with a lot of modulation options, the Polybrute may be the best choice for you.
If you’re looking for a classic-sounding synthesizer with a bit of edge, the OB-6 may be the way to go.
And if you’re looking for a lush-sounding synthesizer with a sweet spot, the Prophet 6 may be the perfect fit.
