The OSCar was a synthesizer manufactured by the Oxford Synthesiser Company from 1983 to 1985. It was considered ahead of its time in several aspects, with later versions being among the few mono-synths of its era to feature MIDI capabilities.
Virtual OSC OSCAR
OSC OSCar
Introduction
The OSCar was a synthesizer manufactured by the Oxford Synthesiser Company from 1983 to 1985. It was considered ahead of its time in several aspects, with later versions being among the few mono-synths of its era to feature MIDI capabilities.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Oxford Synthesiser Company
- Production Period: 1983 – 1985
- Polyphony: Monophonic with limited duophonic capabilities
- Oscillators: 2 digital oscillators
- Synthesis Type: Analog/Digital Hybrid Subtractive Additive
- Filter: 1 resonant multi-mode (lowpass/bandpass/highpass) filter
- Envelopes: 2 ADSR
- LFO: 1 (triangle/sawtooth/square/sample & hold)
- Memory: 24 patches
- Keyboard: 37 keys
- External Control: MIDI (in later versions)
Unique Features
- Digital Oscillators: Offering standard waveforms and additive synthesis capabilities
- Waveform Creation: Ability to create new waveforms by adjusting amplitudes of up to 24 harmonics
- Duophonic Mode: Allows one oscillator to be controlled by the keyboard and the other by the sequencer
- Advanced Filter Design: Combinable filters with a unique “Separation” control for vocal-like sounds
- Sequencer: Elementary sequencer with the ability to lengthen individual notes or insert rests
Design
The OSCar featured a distinctive design with black rubberized components protecting the controls and main casing. It even included a dummy 3-pin mains socket to safely store the plug.
Historical Significance
Despite only about 2000 units being produced, the OSCar found its way into many professional hands. It was used in notable tracks by artists such as Ultravox, Stevie Wonder, and Jean-Michel Jarre.
Legacy
The OSCar’s unique features and sound have led to its continued appreciation among synthesizer enthusiasts. A software emulation called GForce impOSCar is available for those wanting to experience its sound in the digital realm.
Conclusion
The OSC OSCar represents a unique blend of analog and digital technology in synthesizer design. Its innovative features and distinctive sound made it a notable instrument in the 1980s, and it continues to be appreciated by electronic music enthusiasts today.