What synthesizer did Hall & Oates use on I Can't Go for That bass line?

Hall & Oates used an Oberheim OB-Xa synthesizer to create the bass synth sound on "I Can't Go for That (No Can Do)". The OB-Xa was a popular analog polysynth from the early 1980s known for its warm, thick sound.

How to get Hall & Oates I Can't Go for That bass synth tone?

To recreate this tone, use multiple detuned oscillators on an analog or analog-modeled synth, apply a low-pass filter with moderate resonance, and add subtle chorus or phaser effects. Compression helps even out the dynamics and adds punch to the sound.

What studio was I Can't Go for That recorded at?

"I Can't Go for That (No Can Do)" was recorded at Electric Lady Studios in New York. The track was produced by Neil Kernon and engineered by Bob Clearmountain.

Is the bass on I Can't Go for That a real bass or synthesizer?

The prominent bass sound on "I Can't Go for That" is a synthesizer, specifically an Oberheim OB-Xa. The synth bass provides the song's distinctive deep, warm foundation rather than a traditional electric bass guitar.

What effects were used on Hall & Oates I Can't Go for That bass synth?

The bass synth likely used chorus or phaser effects for subtle movement and depth, along with compression to even out dynamics. The thick sound was primarily achieved through the OB-Xa's multiple oscillators being layered and slightly detuned.

bass synth from "i can't go for that (no can do)" by hall & oates

i can't go for that (no can do)

hall & oates

bass synth

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Tone Profile

The bass synth tone is a deep, warm, and slightly percussive sound that provides a solid foundation for the song. It has a rounded attack and a sustained, almost organ-like quality.

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Oberheim OB-Xa(instrument)

The Story

The bass synth on "I Can't Go for That (No Can Do)" was created using an Oberheim OB-Xa synthesizer. The track was recorded at Electric Lady Studios in New York with Neil Kernon producing and Bob Clearmountain engineering. The OB-Xa's multi-oscillator capabilities were likely used to create the thick, harmonically rich bass tone that anchors the song.

Production Credits

Producer: Neil Kernon

Engineer: Bob Clearmountain

Recorded at: Electric Lady Studios, New York

Signal Chain

Instrument: Oberheim OB-XaShop on Reverb

Recreation Tips

Start with an Oberheim OB-Xa synth or a similar analog polysynth with multi-oscillator capabilities.
Layer two or more oscillators, detuning them slightly to create a chorus-like effect and thicken the sound.
Use a low-pass filter with moderate resonance to shape the tone and add warmth.
Add a touch of chorus or phaser for subtle movement and depth.
Compress the signal to even out the dynamics and add punch.
Use EQ to carve out unwanted frequencies and further shape the tone.

Original Gear

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Oberheim OB-XaShop on Reverb(synth)