Oberheim Matrix-12: Programmable MIDI Keyboard Synthesizer
Introduction
The Oberheim Matrix-12 is presented as the ultimate analog synthesizer, offering twelve individually programmable voices with the renowned Oberheim sound. It features a highly versatile patching system, controlled by three parallel computers. This capability is managed via a velocity-sensitive keyboard that can be split into six overlapping sections and a sophisticated MIDI Interface, providing extensive control and creative potential.
Built upon the same advanced technology as the Oberheim Xpander synthesizer, the Matrix-12 is engineered to be a complete, professional-grade synthesizer. Its twelve voices and extensive programming options allow it to replace multiple conventional synthesizers within an electronic music setup. The advanced keyboard and MIDI Interface make it exceptionally well-suited for use as a master controller in multi-instrument environments.
A key feature is the ability for each of the twelve voices to produce a different sound. The instrument can be divided into six "Zones," each playable from the internal keyboard, external MIDI devices, or a combination. This allows for complex layering and sequencing, where different voices with distinct sounds can be played simultaneously from various parts of the keyboard, controlled by MIDI sequencers, or used to control other synthesizers. All these configurations can be stored in one of 100 Multi-Patches for instant recall.
Master Keyboard Features
The Matrix-12 is equipped with a five-octave, long-throw velocity keyboard designed for precision and responsiveness. It captures every subtlety of touch and is lightweight for portability. Selectable velocity scales allow users to tailor the keyboard's response to their individual playing style, applicable to both the internal keyboard and external MIDI controllers.
The keyboard supports after-touch pressure, as well as attack and release velocity. Unlike many synthesizers, these signals can be used to control virtually any parameter of a voice, including Volume, Filter Frequency or Resonance, Envelope times, FM Amount, Vibrato, Detune, LFO Speed, and Lag. This comprehensive modulation capability provides real-time control over numerous voice parameters directly at the player's fingertips.
Voice Architecture
The high-performance capabilities of the Matrix-12 are achieved through the use of computers to manage extensive electronic circuitry. This approach leads to more reliable operation and enables the innovative Matrix Modulation™ system.
Components of Each Voice:
- Two Oscillators, each offering Sawtooth, Triangle, and variable Pulse waveforms.
- A 15-Mode Filter.
- Two Output Amplifiers in series with programmable stereo panning.
- Five Envelope Generators, each featuring Delay, Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release, an output amplifier, and various programmable triggering modes.
- Five Low Frequency Oscillators (LFOs), each with output amplifiers. LFOs support Triangle, Square, Up and Down Sawtooths, Random, and Noise waveforms, with the ability to sample any modulation source and utilize various triggering modes.
- Four Ramp Generators, each with programmable ramp rate and several triggering modes.
- Three Tracking Generators capable of altering the scaling or shape of a modulation source.
- A Lag Processor for implementing Portamento effects between any modulation source and destination.
- An FM VCA for Dynamic Linear Frequency Modulation of VCO1 or the Filter by VCO2.
Modulation Capabilities
The Matrix-12's Matrix Modulation™ system is a defining feature, setting it apart from conventional synthesizers. Each voice incorporates 27 modulation sources that can be routed to any of the 47 modulation destinations. A single source can simultaneously control multiple destinations, with independent positive or negative control for each.
Front Panel Interface
Similar to the Xpander, the Matrix-12 features a 120-character fluorescent alphanumeric display for showing information about Patches and their parameters. Patch editing controls are organized into sections called "Pages." When a specific page is selected (e.g., the VCO 1 page), all related controls and values appear on the front panel, allowing users to adjust settings using the knobs and buttons. The settings for the previously selected page are remembered, enabling seamless editing.
Multi Patch Programming
The Matrix-12 offers storage for 100 Single Patches, each saving all parameters and the name of a sound program. Additionally, 100 Multi Patches allow users to create combinations of Single Patches. Each Multi Patch stores the sound assigned to each voice (allowing different sounds per voice), along with MIDI channel selection, panning, volume, transposition, and detune settings for each voice.
Zone Configuration:
Multi Patches also manage voice assignments across six keyboard sections called ZONES. A Zone can be configured to respond to the internal keyboard, an external MIDI channel, or both. These six Zones within a Multi Patch can be combined into Split, Double, Triple, or Quadruple voicings, even when using an external controller lacking split capabilities. Zones can overlap, enabling sections of the keyboard to play different sounds simultaneously (e.g., bass, strings, flutes) or to stack sounds.
Zones can be set to output MIDI notes directly without playing the Matrix-12's internal voices, or conversely, to receive notes only from the MIDI Input for external control. The system includes various voice assignment routines and voice robbing options within each Zone.
Conclusion
The Oberheim Matrix-12 combines twelve powerful voices with an exceptionally controllable keyboard, offering unparalleled flexibility for professional musicians and sound designers.
