If you’re searching for a software synth that marries the vintage soul of Oberheim with thoughtful, modern enhancements, the GForce Oberheim TVS Pro delivers on all fronts. Designed in close collaboration with Oberheim, it not only captures the essence of the 1975 Two‑Voice Synthesizer but reimagines it for today’s creative workflows.
Historical Authenticity with Modern Power
At its core, the TVS Pro faithfully emulates two fully modelled SEM modules—each feature-rich with dual VCOs (pulse and sawtooth), the legendary multi‑mode filter, dual ADS envelopes, and a dedicated LFO. Every nuance—from warm detuning to analogue imperfections—has been lovingly recreated to preserve that classic character.
But the real magic comes in modern enhancements. GForce adds a third VCO per SEM, which can also operate as an LFO—great for layered modulation. They’ve also incorporated velocity and aftertouch sensitivity, not present on the original hardware.
Sequencing and Effects: Playability Amplified
The dual 16‑step sequencer evokes the spirit of the original TVS while providing deep hands-on control. You can program two independent sequences—one per SEM—or use “flip” and “extend” modes to stretch your creative possibilities.
Audio-wise, TVS Pro brings stereo delay, phaser, and reverb directly into the plugin—no external effects needed. The interface supports undo/redo, and features like “extend” and “flip” streamline creative experimentation.
Massive Preset Library & Workflow Integration
With over 635 presets—including 220+ entirely new sounds and 400+ adapted from the GForce SEM—you gain immediate access to a vast palette of tones. Every patch is neatly categorized, and you can import/export SEM patches and OB‑E sounds seamlessly within your setup.
Plus, the plugin runs as a standalone or in VST2, VST3, AU, and AAX formats on both Windows and macOS (Intel & Apple Silicon), ensuring rock-solid integration with any DAW.
Sound Quality & Creative Response
MusicRadar praised it as “one of the most iconic synthesizers of all time, in a highly usable and great sounding piece of software,” noting the modelling of the state‑variable filter in particular adds “authentic sonic character.”
Sweetwater underscores the TVS Pro’s dynamic flexibility—highlighting features like velocity and aftertouch modulation, plus an extensive categorised patch library—for both expressive performance and fast browsing.
Strengths at a Glance
- Sonic Fidelity: Exceptionally accurate SEM modelling, preserving analogue warmth and nuance.
- Enhanced Modulation: Third VCO/LFO plus expressive touch dynamics elevate creativity.
- Sequencer Workflow: Dual-step sequencers make evolving patterns stunningly intuitive.
- Integrated Effects: Phaser, delay, and reverb add polish without clutter.
- Preset Ecosystem: Huge library with cross-plugin compatibility and export/import options.
- Flexible Formats: Standalone and plugin support across all major DAWs and platforms.
Verdict:
The GForce Oberheim TVS Pro is more than a tribute—it’s a revitalised classic. It delivers the vintage flavour of the original TVS with new depth, expression, and usability. Whether you’re after gorgeously detuned leads, lush pads, or sequencer‑driven pulses, TVS Pro provides both nostalgic charm and forward-thinking flexibility.
This is a resounding win for anyone who values character, tactile control, and an instrument that feels organic even in a digital context. Strongly recommended for synth aficionados and modern producers alike.
Read More on the GForce Oberheim TVS Pro on the GForce website
