Description
Oberheim GForce DMX VST Plugin PC & MAC
When you need drum sounds that carry history and character, the Oberheim GForce DMX gives you exactly that. This software recreation captures the complete sound set of the original 1981 Oberheim DMX drum machine—the unit that powered hits from New Order’s “Blue Monday” to Madonna’s “Holiday” and Run-D.M.C.’s early tracks.
GForce didn’t just sample the DMX; they rebuilt its entire architecture in software. Consequently, you get all the original sounds from the 1981 launch, plus the updated 1983 sound set, along with additional kits from the Oberheim DX and Sequential Drumtraks. Each channel includes independent controls for pitch, decay, pan, and effects sends, letting you shape the vintage character to fit modern productions.
Why These Sounds Still Matter
The DMX’s sonic signature sits in a specific place between electronic precision and analog warmth. Its kick has weight without overwhelming low-end, its snares cut through without harshness, and its hi-hats have a crispness that works across genres. Because so many classic records used these sounds, they bring instant familiarity and credibility to new productions.
What You Get with the GForce DMX
- Complete 1981 DMX sound set – all original drum voices exactly as heard on classic records
- Updated 1983 sounds – refined versions released three years after the original
- Oberheim DX & Sequential Drumtraks sets – additional kits for expanded tonal options
- Classic MIDI files – historically accurate rhythms ready to load into your DAW
- Per-channel controls – independent pan, solo, mute, pitch, decay, delay, and reverb for each drum
- Master processing – multi-mode filter, distortion, and compressor on the master bus
- Modern compatibility – VST, VST3, AU, AAX formats for PC and Mac
Practical Control for Modern Workflows
While the original hardware offered limited sound shaping, the Oberheim GForce DMX gives you detailed control over each drum voice. You can tune individual sounds up or down without affecting the rest of the kit, adjust decay times for shorter or longer tails, and send specific channels to built-in delay and reverb effects. This flexibility lets you adapt the vintage sounds to contemporary arrangements.
Moreover, the master section includes a multi-mode filter, distortion, and compressor—tools that help you match the slightly gritty, overdriven quality of the original hardware or push the drums further for modern electronic productions. These processors affect the entire mix bus, giving you cohesive tone shaping.
Integration with Your Setup
The Oberheim GForce DMX installs as a standard VST, VST3, AU, or AAX instrument on both Windows and macOS. It works in all major DAWs including FL Studio, Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Cubase, Pro Tools, and Studio One. The interface mirrors the logical layout of the original hardware while adding modern conveniences like preset browsing and detailed tooltips.
For historical context and technical details about the original hardware, the Vintage Synth Explorer archive maintains a thorough overview of the DMX’s specifications and legacy.
Instant download after purchase • Compatible with PC & Mac
Technical Specifications
Formats: VST, VST3, AU, AAX for PC and Mac. Compatible with Windows 10+ (64-bit) and macOS 10.13+ (64-bit). Requires a DAW that supports VST, VST3, AU, or AAX plugins. No iLok or additional copy protection needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What records was the original Oberheim DMX used on?
The DMX appears on New Order’s “Blue Monday”, Madonna’s “Holiday”, Run-D.M.C.’s “It’s Like That”, Phil Collins’ “Sussudio”, Davy DMX’s “One For The Treble”, the Eurythmics’ 1983 album, and Daft Punk’s “Discovery” album, among many others. It was one of the defining drum machines of the early 1980s.
What sound sets are included beyond the original 1981 DMX sounds?
The plugin includes the original 1981 DMX sounds, the updated 1983 DMX sounds, and additional sets from the Oberheim DX and Sequential Drumtraks machines. Raw and professionally produced kit versions are included for each set.
Can I tune individual drum sounds within the plugin?
Yes. Each of the eight drum channels has independent pitch control, letting you tune individual sounds up or down without affecting the rest of the kit. Decay, pan, mute, solo, and both delay and reverb sends are also independently adjustable per channel.
What DAWs and formats does the GForce DMX support?
GForce DMX runs as VST, VST3, AU, and AAX on both PC and Mac. It’s compatible with FL Studio, Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Cubase, Pro Tools, Studio One, and Reaper.
