Rare Vintage Moog 981 Mixer Module from 1967

This one is in via Thesis Audio Service who had the following to say:

"I came across this very rare module in a 1968 Moog IIIp that we are restoring for a client. It is a model 981 four channel mixer which I can find very little info about. It appears in the classic Wendy Carlos modular picture and in some Max Brand pictures. There is no mention of it in any of my Moog archive literature or service documents. I have included the schematic that I derived from it. It is an AC coupled mixer for audio. All of the IIIp system pictures that you find show a multiple panel in it's location in the system. The IIIp that we have is dated 1968, but this module is dated 1967. It's a bit of a Moog unicorn, possibly built by the master's hands himself."

I believe this is the first Moog Model 981 module to be featured on the site. You can see the Model number designated as 981 in the image below. The serial number is 1002 and the date is NOV 10 1967. R.A. MOOG CO. TRUMANSBURG N.Y. is on the label. You can find a circuit diagram below as well.

Thesis Audio Service also sent in the rare Moog Model 903 White Sound Source posted here.

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Very Early Moog Modular 903 White Sound Source Module

via Thesis Audio Service:

"We are restoring a Moog Modular for a client which has an early (1968) 903 module labelled 'White Sound Source'. This module is far more rare than the later 903-a module that was widely produced that had white and pink noise outputs.

This module is hand made on a perf board with pint to point wiring, before the 903-a printed circuit board version. It's possible that this module was handled by Dr. Moog himself (!)"

You can find demos of the 903 previously posted here. The 903 white noise module was featured in only a handful of previous posts. Note the 903-A, a different module, was a Random Signal Generator.

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A Comparison of Modular Noise Modules

American noise

"An assortment of raw noise from vintage american modular synths: Serge Modular (paperface) white noise, Serge Modular (paperface) pink noise, RA Moog Modular 903 white noise, RA Moog Modular 903-A white noise, RA Moog Modular 903-A pink noise, ARP2500 1016 white noise, ARP2500 1016 pink noise. Recorded direct to disk without amplification or attenuation. Note the difference in output levels between the systems. See http://myblogitsfullofstars.blogspot.co.uk for more info and pics"

American Noise (normalised)

"Here are just the white noise recordings but this time they are all the same output level
1] Serge (paperface)
2] RA Moog 903
3] RA Moog 903-A
4] ARP2500 1016"

via http://myblogitsfullofstars.blogspot.com/2012/07/american-noise.html

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Gershon Kingsley's Moog Modular System Up for Auction

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
via this auction

This is the one featured in this video posted yesterday.

"This extraordinary and historic Moog modular system has been completely and expertly restored to full working conditon by E.A.R.S./The Analog Lab of New York City. They are New York's premier repair and restoration center for analog synths, and head tech Jeff Blenkinsopp has spent months (and I have spent several thousand dollars) on this restoration. All jacks, switches, and knobs have been thoroughly cleaned, all faulty modules have been repaired, the keyboard has new bushings for a smooth and consistent action, and it's tuning has been re-scaled, etc. In fact, the tuning is as good as you'll ever find on a 5 octave Moog keyboard- you can play the entire range and it will still be in tune with itself. Also, 3 of the oscillators had a factory mod done which makes the tuning more stable on them. This was done at the factory by Moog Custom Engineering, not by a third party. Everything else on the whole system is totally original and stock. A link to a video,below, allows you to hear the synth as well as see it, but first a bit more about what modules it consists of and it's history:
It is actually several things put together- the guts of the system , over half of it, was the original modular system first owned by Gershon Kingsley. He was a famous synth pioneer of the 60's and a good friend of Bob Moog's. He used it in a group called The Moog Quartet, who famously gave the first ever live public performances of a synthesizer at The Museum of Modern Art in Manhattan. By the way, Gershon will be celebrating his 90th birthday this fall with a performance in NewYork at Lincoln Center and has expressed an interest in using this synth for it. If the buyer is on the East coast of the U.S. I can put you in touch with him, and you might be able to rent him the system for that performance.
Several modules were added over the years, such as the reverb module (a great sounding spring reverb), and finally around 1977 the double sequencer cabinet. Most of the modules are dated Jan.1969 (they are stamped inside), some Oct.1969, some 1971, a few later than that.
It is a huge system, with 6 oscillators, 4 filters (2 low pass, one high pass, & one fixed filter bank), 2 VCA's, 4 envelope generators, and many other modules, some quite rare (such as the filter coupler) and topped off with 2 sequencers, complete with sequential switches and a sequential interface A complete list of the modules follows. with cabinet #1 being the furthest left in the photos, #4 all the way to the right:
Cabinet 1: 1x 904a Low Pass Filter, 1x 904b High Pass Filter, 1x 904c Filter Coupler, 1x 911a Dual Trigger Delay, 1x 903 White Sound Source, Control Voltages (no model #), 6 blanks
Cabinet 2: 1x 901 VCO, 1x 903a Random Signal Generator, 1x 905 reverb unit, 1x 995 attenuator, 1x 912 envelope follower, 3x 901a oscillator controllers, 5x 901b oscillators, 2x 4 channel mixer modules (no model #) Cabinet 3: 1x 907 Fixed Filter Bank, 1x 904a Low Pass Filter, Filter and Attenuator (no ID #), 2x 902 VCAs, 4x 911 Envelope Generators, 1x 911a Dual Trigger Delay, 2x 962 Sequential Switches, Envelope and Trigger Voltage Module (no model #), Mult module, Power Module w/ trigger and pitch in/out (no model#)
Cabinet 4: 2x 960 Sequential Controllers, 1x 961 Sequential interface,

Here is a link to a video made by The Analog Lab, who just completed the restoration. If you have trouble opening this link, try pasting it into your browser, or go to their website,www.theanaloglab.com and you will find the video You can hear the synth-the entire piece was recored on it a few days ago."

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Rick Powell 1969 RA Moog 1p/2p Modular Up for Auction

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
via this auction

via the listing: "RA MOOG modular synthesizer system built in 1969. This 1p/2p custom system built especially for Rick Powell in 1969.

Rick was a musician, a producer and a close friend of Robert Moog.

This is one of only a few completely intact RA Moog factory built custom systems specifically built for a customer during the RA Moog period.

Rick Powell used this unit on his “Choir Book” LP (also featured on LP cover) and also the “Switched On Country” LP.

System was built with a RA Moog 950 keyboard (serial 2048) which is in very good condition. The modules are as shown. 4 of the 902 voltage controller amplifiers, 2 of the 911 envelope generators, a 907 fixed filter bank, a 904-A voltage controlled low pass filter, a 904-B voltage controlled high pass filter, a 901-A oscillator controller, a 901-B oscillator, a 903 white sound source, a 901 voltage controlled oscillator and 2 of the mixer units. Both keyboard and cabinet interconnect cables are included. The 901 has a common factory mod to regulate thermal changes which cause drift.

I Bought this unit directly from Rick Powell’s widow and drove cross country from Los Angeles to Florida to pick it up. I wanted to avoid shipping it. Months later I drove it cross country again to Georgia to drop it off with Phil Cirocco of C.M.S. Phil Cirocco at C.M.S. is by far the most knowledgeable, talented, experienced and careful modular synthesizer technician in the world. Though I requested Phil restore the unit meticulously at to factory operating spec, I also insisted the entire system remain as factory stock as possible and all replaced electronic parts be in harmony with the original production parts. A great deal of Phil’s time was used to make this system as perfect as possible and operating to original factory spec. The bill for servicing was a substantial investment. At the time of servicing I had planned to keep this unit and spared no expense. Recently however I was fortunate to have the opportunity to purchase a more desirable system and so I will let this beautiful perfectly restored system go to a new home.

This is a very rare chance to own an original RA Moog factory assembled unit with interesting provenance. It is also a rare chance to own a Moog system so expertly and carefully electronically restored."

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Moog Modular System Manufactured in 1969 For Auction - Video Demo

YouTube Uploaded by yousenditworks on Aug 29, 2011

via this auction

"Moog Modular System for sale on ebay. Auction ends September 4th, at 2pm PDT."


via this auction

"A recent unrestored Moog Modular System went for $33,000

Here is your chance to get a restored, fully functional system at a great price.

This Moog modular is all original, and was made in 1969!

All modules have close serial numbers, with matching stamped manufacture date from March 6th, 1969.

It has been well preserved over the years and is in excellent shape for a 40+ year old instrument.

This synth is fully functional and has recently been restored and fully serviced, including a recap, touching up the keyboard for perfect triggering, with replaced bushing for smoother action, and a cleaning of all pots and jacks.

Cosmetically it is in great shape too, the only major issue is the rear a small piece of wood was cut away to tuck the keyboard cables under.

You aren't likely to find another one from this year in such all original and nice condition.

Here is your once in a life time chance to own a vintage Moog Modular!

Some of the modules included, all dated from March 6th, 1969, are:

901 Voltage Controlled Oscillator
901-A x2 Oscillator Controller
901-B x5 Oscillator
902 x2 Voltage Controlled Amplifier
903 White Sound Source
904-A Voltage Controlled Low Pass Filter
904-B Voltage Controlled High Pass Filter
904-C Filter Coupler
905 Reverberation Unit
910 Power Supply
911 Envelope Generator
907 Fixed Filter Bank
984 Four Channel Mixer
950 Keyboard [SN 1063]"

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Moog Modular Vintage Analog Synthesizer 1969 (LA) For Sale

via Craigslist

"Here is your once in a life time chance to own a vintage Moog Modular. If you are looking at this I probably don't need to tell you about the history of Moog and the importance these early modulars had on the impact of music. This is THE classic vintage analog synthesizer. This Moog modular is all original, and was made in 1969! All modules have close serial numbers, with matching stamped manufacture date from March 6th, 1969. It has been well preserved over the years and is in excellent shape for a 40+ year old instrument. This synth is fully functional and has recently been restored and fully serviced, including a recap, touching up the keyboard for perfect triggering, with replaced bushing for smoother action, and a cleaning of all pots and jacks. Cosmetically it is in great shape too, the only major issue is the rear a small piece of wood was cut away to tuck the keyboard cables under. You aren't likely to find another one from this year in such all original and nice condition!

Even includes the original keyboard.

Price is $35,000

Serious buyers only. Please reply with phone number. Cash preferred, may possibly be interested in a partial trade for other high end synthesizers (Arp 2500, 2600, EMS AKS Synthi VCS3, Buchla) or high end recording equipment (Neumann microphones, u47 u67 preamps, compressors)
See pictures below. More pictures are available per request. This synth is actually located in SF, but for a serious buyer I can deliver it to LA.
You are welcome to come test it out in person. We can ship it, but all money must clear before shipment. Skype demos are available if you are not local. I recommend that you better come hear it in person though, once you start patching and playing with this you won't want to give it up!"

"Some of the modules included, all dated from March 6th, 1969, are:

901 Voltage Controlled Oscillator
901-A x2 Oscillator Controller
901-B x5 Oscillator
902 x2 Voltage Controlled Amplifier
903 White Sound Source
904-A Voltage Controlled Low Pass Filter
904-B Voltage Controlled High Pass Filter
904-C Filter Coupler
905 Reverberation Unit
910 Power Supply
911 Envelope Generator
907 Fixed Filter Bank
984 Four Channel Mixer
950 Keyboard"

You can find some additional pics here.

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Magnificent R.A. Moog modular (60s)

via Vemia

"One of the five or so most important items we have ever had in VEMIA: a large R.A. Moog modular hand-made for one client in stages from 1968-1970, in excellent condition and complete working order. This wonderful instrument is being serviced and renovated by Stephen Masucci, one of the very top Moog restorers, as recommended by Dr Thomas Rhea of Moog fame. The current photos were taken before that renovation, and it will be even more beautiful once Stephen has finished with it. It will also sound superb, with its early 901 oscillators etc., etc.. It consists of four beautiful original cabinets, a superb pair of original keyboards, and what could well be unique: a fixed-filter-bank switching device which has all the hallmarks of a Bob Moog one-off. The modules are:- (3) 901 Voltage Controlled Oscillators (1) 901 A Oscillator Controller (4) 901 B Oscillators (3) 902 Voltage Controlled Amplifiers (1) 903 White Sound Source (2) 904 A Voltage Controlled Low Pass Filters (1) 904 B Voltage Controlled High Pass Filter (1) 904 C Filter Coupler (2) 905 Reverberation Units (1) 905 B Scale Programmer (1) 907 Fixed Filter Bank with in/out switch for each filter (1) 910 Power supply circa 1974 (3) 911 Envelope Generators (1) 911 A Dual Trigger Delay (1) 912 Envelope Follower (2) 950 Stacked Keyboards (1) 960 Sequential Controller (1) 961 Sequencer Interface (1) 962 Sequential Switch (1) 4 Input active line level mixer with click filter (1) 4 Input passive line level mixer with low & high pass filters (1) Various patch points including trunk lines and 4 sets of multiples The last two digits of module serial numbers have been removed in the photos because the owner values his privacy. Remember the photos were taken before the roughly $5000 Stephen Masucci restoration. We have asked Mr Masucci for a written appraisal of this instrument, including its condition and the reason why it is important in Moog history - to follow, I hope. The instrument will be packed and shipped from his workshop, so this will be done by someone with much experience of shipping instruments of this size, weight, and quality (including Dr Rhea's own modular). **The restoration is going well as of 13/4/10, but because of Stephen's other commitments for the rest of the month the likely completion date is not till May 7. That will give the winning bidder a few more days to complete the payment.** **If it is bought by someone outside the USA there may be tax / duty to pay by the importer. In the UK, for instance, there would currently be duty at around 3.2% and VAT at 17.5%.**"

Vintage Moog P2 Modular Synth (Rick Powell Collection)

via this auction

"This unit is part of the Rick Powell Collection. Rick was a musician, a major producer and a contemporary and close friend of Bob Moog, among others, and often received original units from manufacturers to test in the studios. Rick was my studio partner up until the day he passed away and his wife has asked me to sell some of the items that were studio kept for many years. There are many treasures in this collection and we will be adding them as they are photographed, tested and cataloged.

This is probably the crown jewel of the collection. The Moog P2 Modular Synthesizer. Rick used this very unit on his Choir Book LP and also the Switched On Country LP. You can see it in its full glory on the attached album photo. You can also read about the P2 and the other modular Moogs at synthmuseum.com


This synth has no power supply (that we could find among the storage area in their home). Perhaps if someone can show me a picture of what it's supposed to look like, we could find it more easily. Or perhaps it's not available. I've read that the power supplies that originally came with this unit weren't very reliable and many collectors have built their own. The unit has been kept in the home for many years. Stored in A/C. We have no idea what it needs in order to make sounds. Perhaps a few tubes and a power supply would get it going. You collectors will know more than I do about it. I can barely work a light switch.

This unit has the 950 keyboard (serial 2048) in very good condition. Also the 2 loaded banks, also in good condition built into the travel cases. The modules are 4 of the 902 voltage controller amplifiers, 2 of the 911 envelope generators, a 907 fixed filter bank, a 904-A voltage controlled low pass filter, a 904-B voltage controlled high pass filter, a 901-A oscillator controller, a 901-B oscillator, a 903 white sound source, a 901 voltage controlled oscillator and 2 of the mixer units. The cable that runs from the keyboard to the units and the cable that runs from unit to unit are there and look to be in fine condition.

Here's a little story about Rick you may enjoy. He told me that when he was in Nashville, RCA approached him about doing a series of albums to compete with Walter Carlos' LPs of Switched On Bach. Rick turned them down, thinking it wouldn't go over very well or pay very well. So RCA went to another synth artist named Tomita. Rick always laughed about how stupid he was to have turned that down. But being the good-natured optimist that he was, he kept working on the "next tech" device that would enhance people's ability to make music."

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MOOG Model 1P

via this auction.

"1968 vintage

This Moog synthesizer was recently hooked up and played at the computer lab at C.W. Post University, and is working well. It has been stored, covered with plastic, for the past 15 years, and is in remarkable condition for its age. With a basic overhaul this synthesizer should function well. It has excellent sound production capability. For a collector, sound purist, recording artist or engineer, or a college professor teaching synthesis, this two case Moog is a rare find indeed.

Description
1. 956 Ribbon Controller (Scale dial and Lowered voltage switch) (ribbon needs replacement)
2. 950 Keyboard Controller (scale program (internal/external switch) scale, range and portamento dials- Glide/No Glide Switch)

Case 1
(2) 902 Voltage Controlled Amplifiers (Internal & external control mode switch. Fixed Voltage Control Switch)
2 signal inputs and 2 signal outputs, plus 3 control inputs per Amp.
Trigger envelope and voltage component (6 switches) [8 input multiple component]

pitch component
6 inputs-
6 trigger outlets.
(2) ½ amp slow burn-fuses
(1) 1½ amp-fuse.
and power switch and light.

Back of Case 1
5 trunkline inputs plus power cord hookup prongs

Case 2
(1) 907 Fixed Filter Bank Component (1 lowpass & 1 highpass dial- 8 equalizing dials (with wide Hertz control)
250, -350 -500, -700, 1000, 1400, 2000, 2800

(1) 901-A Oscillator Controller
2 Fixed Control Voltage dials and one (width of wave form dial
3 control inputs

(2) 901-B Oscillators
Frequency range dial – 2’-32’ & Lower Frequency Vermer dial
Four outputs – Sawtooth, sine, pulse, and triangular wave. (on each component)

(2) Voltage control components with four switches each- 1ext input and an attenuator dial on each

(1) 903 white Sound source with one output.

(2) mixer/input components
5 dials each, 12 input slots.
Click filter switch (master gain and output volume control.)

(3) 905 Reverberation Unit with ten position dial –and input and output slot.

(1) 901 Voltage controlled Oscillator
(fixed control voltage dial, (Frequency range dial), (width of pulse wave form dial) (volume dial)
4 separate dials for sine, sawtooth, triangular, and pulse waves.
3 control inputs.
4 fixed level inputs for sine, sawtooth, triangular, & pulse.
4 variable level inputs.

(1) filter and attenuator component bank with 3 inputs, and 3 outputs lowpass dial, high pass dial, and attenuator dial.

Back of case 2
1 trunk line hookup (to join cases) and 4 trunk line inputs.

Additional Information
(The two cases have solid covers when not in use.)
There are 16 patch cords (amplifier cables) of varying size (from 1 foot, to 4 feet.)
2 click track connector wires.
Power cable/extension cord-heavy duty.
3 trunk line cables.
1 can Tuner Renu Cleaner

Included are some basic instructions- 8 handwritten pages by the previous owner and descriptions of hookups and schematic drawings showing basic connections and functional description."