Looking Beyond the Dave Smith Sequential OB-6 Keyboard 6-Voice? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The Dave Smith Sequential OB-6 Keyboard 6-Voice is a dedicated analog synthesizer built for musicians who need authentic 6-voice polyphonic sound generation. If you are searching for dave smith sequential ob 6 keyboard 6 voice alternatives, you might be looking for instruments that offer different key counts, form factors, or specific connectivity options. This synthesizer excels in pure analog tone production but does not function as a traditional 88-key stage piano.
You may prefer a different model if you require weighted keys for piano performance, a larger polyphony count, or a more compact footprint for touring. The alternatives listed here were chosen because their specifications overlap with the original in terms of build quality and intended use case. Some options provide triple sensor keybeds for precise touch response, while others focus on stationary stage setups or include bundled accessories. Each selection addresses specific needs that the OB-6 does not cover, such as wooden key actions or integrated sound systems for home use. These choices ensure you find a instrument that matches your exact performance requirements.
Our top pick: Dave Smith Sequential OB-6 Analog Synthesizer.
How these alternatives compare
Nord Piano 6 88-Key Stage Piano
The Nord Piano 6 88-Key Stage Piano replaces analog synthesis with high-fidelity acoustic and electric piano emulation. It features an 88-key triple sensor keybed for precise touch response, which differs significantly from the OB-6’s synth-oriented action. Weighing 55.1 pounds, it is a stationary instrument unsuitable for frequent transport. You gain onboard effects and a dedicated stage piano platform but lose analog sound generation entirely. This model suits pianists who prioritize authentic key feel and piano tones over polyphonic synth capabilities. It is best for fixed setups where portability is not a requirement.
Nord Piano 6 73-Key Stage Piano
The Nord Piano 6 73-Key Stage Piano offers a compact alternative to the OB-6 by providing a triple sensor keybed in a smaller form factor. It weighs 49.1 pounds and measures 49.3 inches in length, making it slightly more manageable than the 88-key version. You trade total key count for portability and precise touch response. Like the 88-key model, it focuses on piano emulation rather than analog synthesis. This instrument is ideal for players who value key feel and onboard effects but need a smaller footprint. It sacrifices the OB-6’s analog character for a focused stage piano experience.
Kawai Grand Feel Wooden-Key Stage Piano
The Kawai Grand Feel Wooden-Key Stage Piano emphasizes wooden keys and acoustic piano tones over digital connectivity. It is a stage piano designed for musicians who value the tactile feel of weighted wooden keys. Unlike the OB-6, it does not offer analog sound generation. Its dimensions are 54.3 inches wide and 17.9 inches long, providing a substantial presence on stage. You gain authentic piano action but lose polyphonic synth voices. This model is best for pianists who prioritize key feel and piano tones. It is a stationary option for those who do not need the OB-6’s analog versatility.
Nord Piano 6 88-Key Stage Piano Bundle
The Nord Piano 6 88-Key Bundle includes a stand and accessories, offering a complete stage piano setup. It weighs 42.3 pounds and measures 50.5 inches wide, making it a heavy, stationary instrument. You gain included accessories and a full 88-key triple sensor keybed but lose analog synthesis capabilities. This bundle suits stage pianists who value weighted keys and a complete package over portability. It is ideal for fixed setups where frequent transport is not needed. The OB-6 remains the choice for analog sound, while this bundle provides a comprehensive piano performance platform.
Kawai CA501 88-key Digital Piano
The Kawai CA501 88-key Digital Piano is a heavy, stationary home instrument weighing 120 pounds. It features wooden keys and an integrated soundboard for a premium home piano experience. Unlike the OB-6, it is designed for home use rather than stage performance. You gain a robust wooden key action and acoustic piano tones but lose portability and analog synthesis. This model is best for players who prioritize a heavy key feel and integrated sound in a stationary setup. It is a significant departure from the OB-6’s compact, synth-focused design, offering a dedicated home piano solution.
Nord Piano 6 73-Key Stage Piano Bundle
The Nord Piano 6 73-Key Bundle provides a compact stage piano setup with essential accessories included. It weighs 35.7 pounds and measures 42 inches wide, making it the most portable option in this list. You gain a triple sensor keybed and included accessories but lose analog sound generation. This bundle suits players needing a compact, expressive stage piano with key feel and layering control. It is ideal for those who prioritize portability and key action over full-size keys. The OB-6 remains the choice for analog synthesis, while this bundle offers a focused, portable piano performance platform.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Dave Smith Sequential OB-6 Analog Synthesizer
Best for: 6-voice polyphonic analog synthesis
View on Amazon: Dave Smith Sequential OB-6 Analog Synthesizer Affiliate link
The Dave Smith Sequential OB-6 Keyboard is a 6-voice polyphonic analog synthesizer. Unlike stage pianos that focus on acoustic instruments, this instrument gives you dedicated analog synthesis with six individual voices and an integrated keyboard. It suits you if you need authentic analog sound shaping rather than the high polyphony counts and acoustic samples typical of digital stage pianos.
Pros
- Dedicated 6-voice polyphonic architecture
- Analog synthesizer sound generation
- Integrated hardware keyboard
Cons
- Polyphony limited to 6 voices
- Specifications list no 88-key weighted action
- No acoustic piano sound engines listed
Good fit if
- You want a dedicated 6-voice analog synthesizer with a built-in keyboard.
- You prioritize hardware analog sound creation over acoustic piano emulation.
Skip if
- You need an 88-key weighted hammer action for traditional stage piano playing.
- You require high polyphony for sustaining complex multi-layered acoustic passages.
Verdict: Dave Smith Sequential OB-6 Analog Synthesizer fits musicians who require authentic 6-voice analog sound generation rather than acoustic stage piano emulation. It provides a dedicated analog platform when traditional 88-key piano performance is not your priority.
Nord Piano 6 88-Key Stage Piano
Best for: stationary stage piano performance
- Number of Keys
- 88
- Key Action
- Triple Sensor Keybed
- Form Factor
- Stage piano
- Pedal Type
- Triple pedal
- Color
- Red
- Dimensions
- 13.7 × 50.5 × 4.76 inches
View on Amazon: Nord Piano 6 88-Key Stage Piano Affiliate link
The Nord Piano 6 is an 88-key stage piano featuring a triple sensor keybed for precise velocity response. It includes a triple pedal input and onboard effects. Weighing 55.1 pounds, it is a heavy instrument designed for stationary stage use. This model suits players who require a dedicated piano sound engine with robust physical controls and a classic red finish.
Pros
- 88 weighted keys with triple sensor action
- Includes triple pedal input for full expression
- Onboard effects for sound shaping
- Durable stage piano form factor
Cons
- Heavy at 55.1 pounds, making it difficult to transport
- No Bluetooth connectivity listed for wireless control
- No dedicated display screen for parameter editing
Good fit if
- You need a dedicated piano sound engine for live performance
- You prefer tactile triple sensor keybeds over standard actions
- You want a stage piano with onboard effects
Skip if
- You require a lightweight keyboard for frequent travel
- You need Bluetooth connectivity for app control
- You are looking for a synthesizer with polyphonic modulation
Verdict: The Nord Piano 6 88-Key Stage Piano is a heavy, stationary instrument best for pianists who prioritize triple sensor keybeds and onboard effects over portability.
Nord Piano 6 73-Key Stage Piano
Best for: Compact stage setups requiring precise touch response
- Number of Keys
- 73
- Key Action
- Triple Sensor Keybed
- Form Factor
- Stage Piano
- Pedal Type
- Triple Pedal
- Color
- Red
- Dimensions
- 13.7 × 42.1 × 4.76 inches
View on Amazon: Nord Piano 6 73-Key Stage Piano Affiliate link
The Nord Piano 6 73-key model is a compact stage piano designed for portability without sacrificing touch response. It features a triple sensor keybed that tracks velocity and repetition accurately. The unit includes a triple pedal input and onboard effects. Weighing 49.1 pounds, it fits well in setups where space is limited. This red-finished instrument suits players who need a responsive action in a smaller footprint.
Pros
- 73-key triple sensor keybed for precise touch response
- Compact 49.3-inch length reduces stage footprint
- Includes triple pedal input for full expression
- Onboard effects processing for immediate sound shaping
Cons
- 73 keys offer less range than 88-key competitors
- 49.1-pound weight remains substantial for frequent transport
- Red color may not match all studio aesthetics
Good fit if
- You need a responsive keybed in a compact size
- You play in venues with limited stage space
- You prefer the immediate control of onboard effects
Skip if
- You require a full 88-key classical piano range
- You prioritize lightweight portability for daily travel
- You need a neutral black or white finish
Verdict: Nord Piano 6 73-Key Red Stage Piano delivers a high-quality triple sensor keybed in a compact form factor. It fits players who value touch response and onboard effects but can compromise on total key count.
Kawai Grand Feel Wooden-Key Stage Piano
Best for: pianists valuing wooden keys and piano tones
- Key Action
- Grand Feel wooden-key
- Form Factor
- Stage Piano
- Pedal Type
- GFP-3 triple pedal unit
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 17.9 × 54.3 × 7.48 inches
View on Amazon: Kawai Grand Feel Wooden-Key Stage Piano Affiliate link
The Kawai MP11-SE is a stage piano featuring a Grand Feel wooden-key action and GFP-3 triple pedal unit. It offers SK-EX and EX grand piano sounds with Virtual Technician editing. This instrument suits players who prioritize authentic key weight and acoustic piano tones in a portable format.
Pros
- Grand Feel wooden-key action
- GFP-3 triple pedal unit
- SK-EX and EX grand piano sounds
- Virtual Technician sound editing
Cons
- No Bluetooth connectivity listed
- No app control listed
- No display listed
Good fit if
- You want a wooden-key action
- You need grand piano sounds
- You prefer a stage piano
Skip if
- You need Bluetooth
- You want app control
- You need a display
Verdict: Kawai MP11-SE Stage Piano is best for pianists who value weighted wooden keys and acoustic piano tones over digital connectivity features.
Nord Piano 6 88-Key Stage Piano Bundle
Best for: complete stage piano setups with accessories
- Number of Keys
- 88
- Key Action
- Triple sensor, grand weighted action
- Form Factor
- Stage piano
- Dimensions
- 13.7 × 50.5 × 4.7 inches
- Weight
- 42.3 pounds
View on Amazon: Nord Piano 6 88-Key Stage Piano Bundle Affiliate link
The Nord Piano 6 88-Key Bundle is a stage piano featuring triple sensor grand weighted keys and 120-voice polyphony. It includes two piano and two sample synth layers with dedicated LED faders for real-time control. This bundle adds a stand, bench, headphones, and cable, making it ready for immediate use by players needing expressive dynamics and rich acoustic realism.
Pros
- Triple sensor keybed for natural, expressive response
- 120-voice polyphony with Advanced String Resonance
- Two piano and two sample synth layers
- Includes stand, bench, headphones, and cable
Cons
- Heavy at 42.3 pounds for portability
- Large footprint at 50.5 inches wide
- No mention of Bluetooth connectivity
Good fit if
- You need a complete setup with accessories included
- You prioritize weighted keys and high polyphony
- You want dedicated faders for layer control
Skip if
- You need a lightweight, portable instrument
- You prefer a compact keyboard under 73 keys
- You require built-in wireless connectivity
Verdict: Nord Piano 6 88-Key Bundle suits stage pianists who value weighted keys and included accessories over portability. Its substantial weight and size make it ideal for fixed setups rather than frequent transport.
Kawai CA501 88-key Digital Piano
Best for: Home players wanting wooden keys
- Number of Keys
- 88
- Key Action
- Grade-weighted Hammer-action Wooden Keys
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth
- Speaker System
- Built-in Speakers
- Color
- White
- Dimensions
- 61.5 × 27 × 22.8 inches
View on Amazon: Kawai CA501 88-key Digital Piano Affiliate link
The Kawai CA501 is an 88-key digital piano featuring Grade-weighted Hammer-action Wooden Keys and built-in stereo speakers. It offers Bluetooth compatibility and 24 additional effects for enhanced sound. The satin white finish suits modern interiors. This instrument targets players seeking a realistic key feel and integrated audio without external gear. It is a solid option for home use where space and aesthetics matter.
Pros
- 88 Grade-weighted Hammer-action Wooden Keys
- Built-in stereo speakers
- Bluetooth connectivity
- 24 additional effects
Cons
- Heavy at 120 pounds
- Large footprint requires significant space
- No listed app support
Good fit if
- You want wooden key construction
- You prefer a white finish
- You need built-in speakers
Skip if
- You need a portable keyboard
- You require Bluetooth audio streaming
- You have limited floor space
Verdict: Kawai CA501 88-Key Digital Piano is best for players who prioritize a heavy, wooden key action and integrated sound in a stationary home setup.
Nord Piano 6 73-Key Stage Piano Bundle
Best for: compact stage setups with included accessories
- Number of Keys
- 73
- Key Action
- Triple sensor keybed
- Form Factor
- Stage piano
- Pedal Type
- Nord Triple Pedal 2
- Dimensions
- 13.7 × 42 × 4.7 inches
- Weight
- 35.7 pounds
View on Amazon: Nord Piano 6 73-Key Stage Piano Bundle Affiliate link
This Nord Piano 6 bundle offers a 73-key triple sensor keybed for responsive play. It features 120-voice polyphony and two piano plus two sample synth layers. The package includes a Nord Triple Pedal 2 for half-pedaling and sostenuto control. You get a stage piano with dedicated LED faders for real-time layer adjustments. The bundle adds a stand, furniture bench, headphones, and cable, making it ready for immediate use.
Pros
- Triple sensor keybed for expressive velocity detection
- 120-voice polyphony with advanced string resonance
- Two piano and two sample synth layers
- Nord Triple Pedal 2 with half-pedaling support
- Bundle includes stand, bench, and headphones
Cons
- 73 keys limit range compared to 88-key models
- 35.7-pound weight affects portability
- No built-in speakers for standalone use
Good fit if
- You need a compact stage piano for smaller venues
- You want a complete setup with stand and bench
- You prefer triple sensor keybed responsiveness
Skip if
- You require a full 88-key hammer action range
- You need built-in speakers for practice
- You want a lighter instrument for frequent travel
Verdict: Nord Piano 6 73-Key Bundle suits players needing a compact, expressive stage piano with essential accessories included. It fits those prioritizing key feel and layering control over full-size keys.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Dave Smith Sequential OB-6 Analog Synthesizer | Nord Piano 6 88-Key Stage Piano | Nord Piano 6 73-Key Stage Piano | Kawai Grand Feel Wooden-Key Stage Piano | Nord Piano 6 88-Key Stage Piano Bundle | Kawai CA501 88-key Digital Piano | Nord Piano 6 73-Key Stage Piano Bundle |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Keys | not stated | 88 | 73 | not stated | 88 | 88 | 73 |
| Key Action | not stated | Triple Sensor Keybed | Triple Sensor Keybed | Grand Feel wooden-key | Triple sensor, grand weighted action | Grade-weighted Hammer-action Wooden Keys | Triple sensor keybed |
| Form Factor | not stated | Stage piano | Stage Piano | Stage Piano | Stage piano | not stated | Stage piano |
| Pedal Type | not stated | Triple pedal | Triple Pedal | GFP-3 triple pedal unit | not stated | not stated | Nord Triple Pedal 2 |
| Connectivity | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Bluetooth | not stated |
| Speaker System | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Built-in Speakers | not stated |
| Color | not stated | Red | Red | Black | Bundle w/ Stand | White | Bundle w/ Stand |
| Dimensions | not stated | 13.7 × 50.5 × 4.76 inches | 13.7 × 42.1 × 4.76 inches | 17.9 × 54.3 × 7.48 inches | 13.7 × 50.5 × 4.7 inches | 61.5 × 27 × 22.8 inches | 13.7 × 42 × 4.7 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 55.1 pounds | 49.1 pounds | not stated | 42.3 pounds | 120 pounds | 35.7 pounds |
| Model | OB6KEYBOARD | NORDPIANO688 | AMS-NPIANO6-73 | MP11SE | NPIANO6-88 | CA501 Satin White | NPIANO6-73 |
| Size | not stated | not stated | Moderate | 138 cm (W) x 45.5 cm (D) x 19 cm (H) | Piano 6 88-Key | 61.5 x 27 x 22.75 inches | Piano 6 73-Key |
If you require different synthesis capabilities, you can compare mitsubishi 6 alternatives to examine their individual voice architectures.
Frequently asked questions
Which Nord Piano 6 model is best for stationary stage use?
The Nord Piano 6 88-Key Stage Piano is the top choice for stationary setups. It features an 88-key triple sensor keybed that provides precise touch response. Weighing 55.1 pounds, this red instrument prioritizes onboard effects and acoustic emulation over portability, making it ideal for fixed stage positions.
Can I find a more compact Nord Piano 6 option?
Yes, the Nord Piano 6 73-Key Stage Piano offers a compact form factor. It retains the high-quality triple sensor keybed for precise touch response but reduces the total key count to 73. Weighing 49.1 pounds, this red model suits players who value expressiveness and onboard effects in a smaller footprint.
What is the best black alternative to the OB-6 for piano tones?
The Kawai Grand Feel Wooden-Key Stage Piano is the best black option. It features weighted wooden keys and focuses on acoustic piano tones. This instrument suits pianists who value key feel and sound quality over extensive digital connectivity features, offering a traditional stage piano experience in a black finish.
Which digital piano is best for home players wanting wooden keys?
The Kawai CA501 88-key Digital Piano is designed for home players seeking wooden keys. It provides a heavy, wooden key action with integrated sound in a stationary setup. This white instrument weighs 120 pounds, making it suitable for fixed home environments where portability is not a priority.
Is there a bundle option for the Nord Piano 6 88-Key?
The Nord Piano 6 88-Key Stage Piano Bundle includes essential accessories for complete stage setups. It suits players who value weighted keys and included gear over portability. With a weight of 42.3 pounds for the bundle, it is ideal for fixed setups rather than frequent transport, providing a ready-to-use solution.
What bundle option exists for the compact Nord Piano 6?
The Nord Piano 6 73-Key Bundle provides a compact stage piano with included accessories. It suits players needing expressive key feel and layering control in a smaller format. Weighing 35.7 pounds, this bundle prioritizes key feel over full-size keys, offering a complete solution for compact stage setups with essential gear.
How does the OB-6 differ from the Nord Piano 6 alternatives?
The OB-6 is a dedicated 6-voice analog synthesizer, while Nord Piano 6 models focus on acoustic and electric piano emulation. The OB-6 fits musicians needing authentic analog sound generation rather than piano emulation. Nord models offer triple sensor keybeds and onboard effects, catering to pianists who prioritize touch response and acoustic tones.