Does Behringer Own Oberheim

The question of “Does Behringer Own Oberheim” has echoed through the synth community for years, sparking debate and curiosity among musicians. This article aims to shed light on the complex relationship between these two influential names in electronic music.

The Truth Behind the Ownership Question

For many, the names Behringer and Oberheim are synonymous with iconic synthesizers. Behringer, a company known for its vast range of affordable audio equipment, has released numerous synths that bear a striking resemblance to classic Oberheim designs. This has led to widespread speculation about whether Behringer has acquired the Oberheim brand or its intellectual property. The reality, however, is more nuanced. Behringer does not own Oberheim in the traditional sense of a corporate buyout. Instead, Behringer has chosen to create recreations and inspired-by versions of classic Oberheim instruments, often referred to as “clones” or “tributes.” This strategy has allowed them to bring the sound and feel of legendary synths to a new generation of musicians at a more accessible price point. The legal landscape surrounding synth design can be intricate. While Oberheim as a company has gone through various ownership changes and periods of dormancy, Behringer has navigated this by focusing on recreating the *spirit* and *sound* of these beloved instruments rather than directly purchasing the Oberheim name itself for manufacturing. This has allowed them to produce instruments like the “OB-X,” “OB-Xa,” and “OB-E,” which are clearly inspired by the original Oberheim OB-X, OB-Xa, and Oberheim Synthesizer modules. To understand this better, consider these points:

• Behringer’s Business Model: Behringer’s core strategy involves reverse-engineering and producing affordable versions of popular and often out-of-production gear.
• Intellectual Property: While Oberheim holds trademarks and patents, Behringer’s approach often involves creating new circuits and designs that capture the sonic essence of vintage instruments without infringing on direct patent rights.
• The “Oberheim Sound”: The distinctive sound of Oberheim synthesizers is highly sought after. Behringer aims to replicate this sought-after sonic character.

Here’s a simplified breakdown of how Behringer approaches these inspirations: