Moog Announces New Modular Systems for 2015 with Back to the Future Sounds Documentary

Back to the Future Sounds Published on Jan 19, 2015

"On January 19, 2015 Moog Music Inc. announced their plans to recommence a limited run manufacturing of three of their most sought after 5U large format modular synthesizers: The System 55, the System 35 and the Model 15. These three modular synthesizer systems were originally created and manufactured by Moog in 1973.

To commemorate the announcement, Moog shot a short film at their factory about the inspiring and multifaceted relationship artists have with modular synthesizers. The video features electronic music pioneers such as Suzanne Ciani, Malcolm Cecil, David Borden, Dick Hyman and Herb Deutsch alongside performances on the new Moog modular systems by Holy Ghost! (DFA Records), Gavin Russom (ECSTATIC/Entropy Trax), Max Ravitz AKA Patricia (L.I.E.S./Opal Tapes/ Spectral Sound), Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith (Western Vinyl), Jacques Greene (Vase/LuckyMe) and M. Geddes Gengras (Stones Throw/Leaving). Each artist played a patch on one or more of the new Moog modular synthesizers recorded in one take with no overdubs."

Suzanne Ciani | System 55

Published on Jan 19, 2015

"In this video, electronic music and sound design pioneer Suzanne Ciani explores the Moog modular System 55 for the first time in decades. Ciani came to the Moog factory in Asheville, NC to play the first System 55 newly handcrafted by Moog in over thirty years. The patch, created and performed live, was shot in one take and features a sequence designed on the 960 Sequential Controller that's driving three 921B oscillators into a 904B High Pass filter whose cutoff is being modulated by a 921 oscillator. A second set of 921B oscillators is also being played manually into a 904A Low Pass filter whose cutoff knob is also being modulated by the 921 oscillator. The resulting sound of each is then sent through its own dedicated MF-104M analog delay for ambience. The audio has been captured directly with no eq, compression, or editing applied."

And the press release:

"ASHEVILLE, NC – January 19, 2015 — January 19, 2014 Asheville, NC: 50 years ago, at its first introduction, the Moog modular synthesizer represented as radical a transition as Kandinski’s abstracts or Kodak’s cameras – offering both a break from yesterday and a startling glimpse of tomorrow. And, as with all cultural explosions, the impact of Dr. Bob Moog’s invention was impossible to evaluate from the epicenter. It’s only now, 50 years down the line that we can get some measure of the importance, and the sheer untapped potentiality of the Moog Modular Synthesizer.

Today, it is with great excitement that Moog Music Inc. announces their plans to re-commence the limited run manufacturing of three of their most sought after 5U large format modular synthesizers: The System 55, the System 35 and the Model 15. These three modular synthesizer systems were originally created and manufactured by Moog in 1973.

To commemorate the announcement, Moog shot a short film at their factory about the inspiring and multifaceted relationship artists have with modular synthesizers. The video features electronic music pioneers such as Suzanne Ciani, Malcolm Cecil, David Borden, Dick Hyman and Herb Deutsch alongside performances by contemporary modular artists like Holy Ghost! (DFA), Gavin Russom (ECSTATIC/Entropy Trax), Max Ravitz AKA Patricia (L.I.E.S./Spectral Sound/Opal Tapes), Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith (Western Vinyl), Jacques Greene (Vase/LuckyMe) and M. Geddes Gengras (Stones Throw). Each artist played a patch live, in one take, with no overdubs on one or more of the new Moog Modular systems.

The foundation for this announcement was laid last year at Moogfest 2014, when Moog released the Emerson Moog Modular system – a faithful recreation of Keith Emerson’s legendary modular instrument, which was the culmination of three years worth of research and engineering. Now Moog will use the techniques learned recreating the EMMS manufacturing process to once again build these modular systems. Crucially, in deference to the unique character and appeal of the original instruments, these systems will be made entirely to their original product specifications and manufacturing techniques and processes.

Working from the 1970s schematics, the System 55, the System 35 and the Model 15 will be meticulously handcrafted, as a true recreation of the original. The modules are built from the original circuit board films - just as they were in 1973- by hand-stuffing and hand-soldering components to circuit boards, and using traditional wiring methods. The front panels are photo-etched aluminum, a classic process rarely still used in today’s synthesizer manufacturing, to maintain the classic and durable look of vintage Moog modules.

Upon their first release in 1973, the System 55, the System 35 and the Model 15 represented a high watermark for modular synthesis, and their inimitable tones can be heard shaping many much-loved albums. They were fundamental in the development of contemporary soul, RnB, and disco from giving Stevie Wonder’s classic run of 70s LPs their questing, innovative edge, to providing Giorgio Moroder with the pulsating machine melodies that ushered in electronic dance. At the same time, these were the instruments that inspired Brian Eno to push further out into seas of layered tranquillity on his pioneering ambient albums, or provoked bands like Yes and Tangerine Dream to blast their sonic freak outs into the cosmos.

However, the reintroduction of these instruments is not about reliving the past – while much incredible work has been done with the Moog Modular, there is so much further yet to be explored in this relatively young instrument. Artists had only begun to grasp the vast possibilities of these large format modular synthesizers when they went out of production over thirty years ago. Decades of electronic experimentation have enabled musicians to move on from viewing the Moog Modular as a replacement for traditional instrumentation. Now a new generation of artists, with a greater understanding and more complex tools, will have the opportunity to explore the power of these singular sonic machines. Today, the modular synthesizer is viewed in the manner Bob Moog originally intended: to “discover endless offbeat, unconventional, and even irrational ways of working.”

The dedicated nature of the Moog modular rebuilding process is such that the units will come in extremely limited quantities. There will be 55 units of the System 55, priced at $35,000 per instrument; 35 of units of the System 35, priced at $22,000 per instrument; and 150 units of the Model 15, priced at $10,000 per instrument.

Alongside these Moog Modular Systems will be the Sequencer Complement B Expansion Cabinet, a dual 960 Sequential Controller, an accompaniment to the System 35 and System 55, that has been out of production for over 30 years– as well as an optional 5-Octave duo phonic keyboard."

http://www.moogmusic.com/content/moog-modular-synthesizers

Keith Emerson's Flying Piano

Uploaded on Nov 3, 2006 PLANx

"From ELP's California Jam performance"

via @MoogFoundation

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the man who made pianos fly: the magnificent KEITH EMERSON @keith_n_emerson http://youtu.be/uSm5IQFaTZA"

Moog system comes in at 1:15 but don't miss the piano action. :)

On Keith Emerson's birthday. Also see Tomto/Kevin Farrow's toast here.

Happy Birthday Keith Emerson!

Today is Keith Emerson's birthday!

He, along with Wendy Carlos, are two of the most important musicians in the world of synthesizers. They are both credited with introducing the use of synthesizers in mainstream music. Wendy brought synthesizers to classical music, and Keith brought synthesizers to band based Rock 'n' Roll. They were the first to bring synthesizers from the realm of the experimental, musique concrete, and educational applications to the main stream.

Keith Emerson's Moog modular is iconic. Not only does Keith still perform with it, but it inspired Moog Music to re-issue the awe inspiring monolith.

Thank you Keith, and Happy Birthday!!!

Left: Keith in St. Petersburg, Russia 2008 via wikipedia.

Below: Keith back in the day via @moogfest.

via wikipedia: "Emerson first heard a Moog when a record shop owner played Switched-On Bach for him. Emerson said: 'My God that's incredible, what is that played on?' The owner then showed him the album cover. So I said, 'What is that?' And he said, 'That's the Moog synthesizer.' My first impression was that it looked a bit like electronic skiffle.'[8]

Without one of his own, Emerson borrowed Mike Vickers' Moog for an upcoming The Nice concert at the Royal Festival Hall, London with the Royal Philharmonic. Mike helped patch the Moog and the concert was a great success. Emerson's performance of Also sprach Zarathustra from the recently released 2001: A Space Odyssey was a show stopper. Emerson: 'I thought this was great. I've got to have one of these.'[8]

With ELP's record deal with Atlantic came funds to buy the Moog. Keith: 'It cost a lot of money and it arrived and I excitedly got it out of the box stuck it on the table and thought, 'Wow That's Great! a Moog synthesizer [pause] How do you switch it on?...There were all these leads and stuff, there was no instruction manual.' Mike Vickers came through by patching it to produce six sounds and those six sounds became the foundation of ELP's sound.[8]

In 1969, Emerson incorporated the Moog modular synthesiser into his battery of keyboards. While other artists such as The Beatles and The Rolling Stones had used the Moog in studio recordings, Emerson was the first artist to tour with one. Emerson's use of the Moog was so important to the development of new models that he was given prototypes, such as the Constellation he took on one tour[8] and the Apollo, which had its debut on the opening track of Brain Salad Surgery, 'Jerusalem.'"

[AES] Moog Recreates Keith Emerson's Modular System

Published on Oct 11, 2014 Audiofanzine

"Probably the most striking product at the show was Moog's 50th anniversary recreation of Keith Emerson's Moog modular system. Watch the video to learn more about how Moog did it, and to hear some vintage modular sounds."

50th Anniversary of the Moog Modular Synthesizer - Details on the Emerson Moog Modular Clone

Published on Oct 11, 2014 Moog Music Inc

"October 12, 2014 marks the 50 Year anniversary of the unveiling of the Moog modular synthesizer at the Audio Engineering Society's (AES) New York convention. On that day in 1964, Dr. Robert Moog introduced the world to a completely new type of instrument that would go on to change the course of music history and influence decades of future instrument design. Told by a Moog engineer, Moog Historian, and Bob Moog himself, this mini-documentary explores Moog Music's quest to resurrect the original methods, materials and designs used in the foundational modular synths. Through recreating Keith Emerson's modular system, Moog Music rediscovers the power, elegance, and enduring legacy of its first instruments.

Find out more at www.moogmusic.com"

"Moog’s 1:1 Recreation of Keith Emerson’s Modular Synthesizer shown at AES ‘14

Asheville, NC, October 11, 2014 — Tomorrow, October 12, 2014, marks the 50 Year anniversary of the unveiling of the Moog modular synthesizer at the Audio Engineering Society's (AES) New York convention. On that day in 1964, Dr. Robert Moog introduced the world to a completely new type of instrument that would go on to change the course of music history and influence decades of future instrument design.

The Moog modular synthesizer was comprised of individual electronic modules, housed in a wooden frame, and it made use of voltage-control as a new way of creating powerful sounds that had never been heard before.

After its debut at AES, the scientific-looking Moog modular instrument that made extraordinary new sounds with rapid alterations and exotic tonal colors, started to gain in popularity. Musicians began to establish the Moog system as the archetype of synthesis. One of the earliest and most famous artists to adopt the new instrument was Keith Emerson, keyboardist for the innovative band Emerson Lake and Palmer. Touring the world for over forty years with this unique instrument, Emerson has made his Moog modular system the most recognizable synthesizer of all time.

The 50th Anniversary of the Moog Modular is a historical landmark for musical instrument design and popular music. In celebration of this momentous occasion, Moog Music has faithfully and painstakingly recreated Keith Emerson’s Moog modular. This new Emerson Moog Modular System (EMMS) utilizes original design material and parts to duplicate each facet of Mr. Emerson’s custom instrument down to the smallest detail. The modules in the EMMS are built exactly as the originals were in the Moog Factory in Trumansburg, NY in the 1960s: by hand-stuffing and hand-soldering components to circuit boards, and using traditional wiring methods. Today, Moog also released a mini-documentary featuring a Moog engineer, a Moog Historian, and Bob Moog himself, that explores Moog Music's quest to resurrect the original methods, materials and designs used in the foundational modular synths.

"It's a dream come true for us to bring back these instruments that our company is so known for, and to make them visually and sonically perfect. It's even more perfect that exactly 50 years after the first Moog synth was shown to the public, people can come to AES 2014 and experience the new Emerson Moog Modular System," said Brian Kehew, Moog’s Historian.

This towering recreation of the world's most recognizable synthesizer will be on display in Moog booth 1028 at the 137th AES convention in Los Angeles, CA through Sunday 10/12/14. It is the first time the Emerson Moog Modular System has been shown to the public since it’s unveiling at Moogfest 2014.

Of the 5 Emerson Moog Modular Systems Moog will build, only 1 remains available for sale. The price is $150,000 USD. To inquire about purchasing the last remaining Emerson Moog Modular System, contact Steve Maass at Moog Music. 828.251.0090 ext. 205 or email steve.m@moogmusic.com. Serious buyers only please."

Keith Emerson's Moog With Cycling Presets Light Show

Emo's Moog w cycling presets Published on Jan 5, 2014 CJ Vanston

"Keith Emerson's Moog being put through the paces by Gene Stopp"

Keith Emerson’s personal Moog Minimoog THE ORIGINAL spilt system?

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

via this auction

via the seller: "For Sale is likely the only original Moog synthesizer owned and used by Keith Emerson that will ever be for sale. Keith Emerson’s other Moog unit, his massive modular system, will certainly one day wind up in a museum and not be available to collectors.
This incredible and historic Minimoog has some very serious provenance. Keith Emerson owned it, recorded with it and toured with it using it on his most famous 70’s and 80’s tours. Further to that Keith had it heavily modified for his unique purposes making it truly a one of a kind relic of music history.

Robert Moog liked the idea so much he created a prototype of what was to be a factory split system. Photos of that unit are online however I have never known anyone to actually own one or see one..

It was technician Tony Wride, who first acquired Keith’s original Moog Minimoog directly from Keith Emerson in 1992. As the story goes with a bit of help from Will Alexander who handled the transaction. The unit was later sold to a synthesizer collector in Texas via auction. That collector is whom I purchased it from.


A unique opportunity to own a piece of Rock history! This Minimoog was one of the earliest ones owned by Keith Emerson (26 June 1973 date on keyboard) and he had the keyboard and electronics separated so that it could be used in his stage setup. Basically the keyboard was set up to slide into place when required while the electronics section remained out of the way"

Update via Seth Elgart in the comments: "Moog actually did make a split keyboard. I've never seen one in person but they did exist. A bit more polished than Emerson's actually as it's not a modification."

Also this exact one appears to have been previously listed here back in 2012.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Inside Moog's New Emerson Modular Synth

Published on May 7, 2014 keyboardmag1·441 videos

"At MoogFest 2014, Peter Kirn gets a tour of Moog's mammoth new tribute synth, a part-for-part reconstruction of Keith Emerson's iconic Moog Modular."

The New Emerson Moog Modular System Is Real

Remember the April Fools post? Turns out the April Fools joke was that it's actually real.

"Moog Music Announces The New Emerson Modular System

Friday, April 25, 2014 - Moog Music unveils one of its largest engineering undertakings, the new Emerson Moog Modular System.

On the 50th anniversary of the introduction of the Moog Modular, the first voltage controlled synthesizer, Moog Music is proud to honor Keith Emerson and his seminal collaboration with Bob Moog. Today, for the first time at Moogfest 2014, Moog Music reveals its three year effort faithfully recreating the iconic Emerson Moog Modular.

In the intervening 50 years since the advent of the first Moog synthesizer, people have steadily come to appreciate the power and flexibility of the early Moog modular systems. Now in 2014, 60 years after Bob Moog started his electronic musical instrument company, with great respect for the tradition, design, and craftsmanship of the original Moog modular systems, Moog Music proudly announces the recreation of arguably the most famous synthesizer in history--Keith Emerson’s Moog Modular System.

Over the last 3 years Moog Music has set out to research and build a faithful recreation of this highly complex, custom instrument. Using the original documentation as well as circuit board and art files for nearly every original Moog module, Moog Engineers have painstakingly recreated the original Emerson Modular System. The new Emerson Moog Modular System is comprised of handcrafted Moog modules built from the original circuit designs and are true recreations of the originals, utilizing the same hand assembly methods used in the Moog Music factory in Trumansburg, NY in 1969. The modules in the new Emerson Moog Modular System are built just as the originals were, by hand-stuffing and hand-soldering components to circuit boards, and using traditional wiring methods. Even the front panels are photo-etched aluminum (a rare process now), which is the classic and durable, look of vintage Moog modules.

Moog Music is proud to partner with Keith Emerson and salute his pioneering artistry with the announcement that Moog will build a handful of these incredible, custom handcrafted Emerson Moog Modular Systems.

To celebrate the introduction of the new Emerson Moog Modular System, Moog Music featured Emerson as a headliner at Moogfest 2014, where he played a special performance last night on Thursday, April 24th and is featuring a live discussion with Emerson today, Friday, April 25th."

A couple of pics of Keith Emerson at Moogfest with the system via John Grabowski's photostream on Flickr. (click through for more).

And via @Moogfest

"Introducing the new Emerson Moog Modular System. … pic.twitter.com/KHSP5dl5W3"

Gene Stopp pictured with the new system.  Gene is a renowned modular tech who worked on Keith's original system.  He and Brian Kehew worked closely together on the new system.  You can see them both pictured here.

Moog Recreates Keith Emerson's Monster Moog

"The Synthesizer Genome Project: Moog Reverse Engineers the World's Most Famous Keyboard

Moog Creates a 1:1 Recreation of Keith Emerson's Moog Modular, Using Original Processes and Components

ASHEVILLE, NC – April 1, 2014 – Today, Moog Music announced that over the last three years, its dedicated engineering team has painstakingly reverse engineered and built a 1:1 recreation of the world's most famous keyboard: Keith Emerson's Moog Modular, using original processes and components. When it was created in 1970, the original Emerson Modular included the following:

81 total modules / custom panels

12 unique, custom built modules including: sample and hold, preset programmer, custom LFO's and DRONE VCO Control

Two custom modded modules: 903 Noise Source and 905 Reverb

First synthesizer with performance presets

Shoots rockets

The Emerson System, by Moog Custom Engineering, is to be released later this month and is based on the original Emerson Modular. The Emerson System will include the following:

Every standard module printed from original circuit board films

Original/vintage and NOS (new old stock) components sourced from around the world

All face places are reproduced using original transparencies and techniques

Each module is hand build and soldered with original schematics and service manuals as guides

No longer shoots rockets

More information on the Emerson System, including pricing and availability, will be announced shortly."

Top pic:

EMERSON MODULAR - (b. 1970)

- 81 total modules/custom panels

- 12 unique, custom built modules including: sample and hold, preset programmer, custom LFO's and DRONE VCO Control

- Two custom modded modules: 903 Noise Source and 905 Reverb

- First synthesizer with performance presets

- Shoots rockets

Bottom:

EMERSON SYSTEM
by Moog Custom Engineering - (b. 2014)

- Every standard module printed from original circuit board films

- Original/Vintage and NOS (new old stock) components sourced from around the world

- All face plates reproduced using original transparencies and techniques

- Each module hand built and soldered with original schematics and service manuals as guides

- No longer shoots rockets"

KEITH EMERSON's Track of My Years on the BBC

via The Bob Moog Foundation on Facebook

"KEITH EMERSON with the Moog Universe at his fingertips. Our hats are off to this legendary artist who pioneered the use of the Moog modular in a touring environment, and to all if his keyboard techs over the years who have kept the 'Monster Moog' humming.

For all of you Emerson fans out there, Keith shared his Track of My Years on the BBC recently. You can listen in here"

http://moogfoundation.org

Keith Emerson's 'Split' Minimoog Up for Auction

via this auction where you'll find a few more pics while up. The seller is Tony (Aviator) Wride. This one in via Senso.

"A unique opportunity to own a piece of Rock history! This Minimoog was one of the earliest ones owned by Keith Emerson (26 June 1973 date on keyboard) and he had the keyboard and electronics separated so that it could be used in his stage setup. Basically the keyboard was set up to slide into place when required while the electronics section remained out of the way. Please read the details below about how I ended up getting it in 1992 and look at the pictures. I have included some pictures taken in 1992 when I got the synth as well as some archive pictures of Keith and the Minimoog on stage.

THE STORY
In the early 90s I did a lot of work on analogue synths working for a number of well known bands as well as building my own analogue synth called “The Aviator”. It was basically a hobby for me. Please Google Tony Wride and Exclusively Analogue to find out more. You can ignore all the flying related stuff associated with my job!

In 1992 I was doing some work for Vince Clarke of Erasure prior to their Abbaesque tour and went to a rehearsal studio at Brent Cross in North London. Next door to the Erasure studio was another band rehearsing for their tour and it turned out to be ELP preparing for the “Black Moon” Tour! Keith had been one of my keyboard heroes and I never ever thought I would get the chance to meet him let alone see him rehearsing. I met Will Alexander, who was Keith's technician, and got talking about the famous big Moog which they planned to take on tour. "We would like to get it fitted with MIDI" said Will and I then suggested fitting a Kenton MIDI retrofit for a MiniMoog which is what I ended up doing! (See the pictures). Whilst working on the Modular I talked to Keith and Will about the gear they were going to use on tour and Will said "We need another SE1 (Basically a Minimoog in a rack with MIDI) to go in the rack but the dealer said they can't get one in time". It just so happened that I had just traded a mint condition Minimoog for an SE1 with a studio in London so sitting in the back of my car was an SE1! When I said to Will that I could get them an SE1 for the tour he asked "How soon?" "How does 3 minutes sound?" I said. Talk about coincidence!!

Keith ended up with my SE1 for the tour but I was now Minimoogless. Fortunately sitting in amongst a collection of unused ELP gear was the electronics section of a Minimoog looking in a very sorry state. I asked Will what had happened and what was happening to the remains of the Minimoog. "It's one of Keith's early MiniMoogs that had the keyboard separated from it so that it could be mounted on the Hammond. It doesn't work and the keyboard is in storage." We ended up agreeing to me having the non working "split" Minimoog as part of the deal for the SE1 on an understanding that they would send me the keyboard in the future.

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John Paul Jones Yamaha GX-1 with Programmer Up for Auction?

via this auction

"Here's your once-in-a-lifetime chance to own one of the most famous keyboards in rock-'n'-roll history: the storied Yamaha GX-1 synthesizer owned by John Paul Jones (Led Zeppelin), then Keith Emerson (Emerson, Lake & Palmer/Powell [ELP]), then Hans Zimmer (film composer). Seller acquired it directly from Hans Zimmer in 2003 (authenticated). Yamaha's original retail/list price for the GX-1 was US$60,000.

Provenance: John Paul Jones acquired it circa 1977/78 and used it on Led Zeppelin's album "In Through The Out Door." It was featured on tracks "In The Evening," "All My Love," "Carouselambra" and "I'm Gonna Crawl." On "All My Love," Jones performs a nice string arrangement, and the horn solo demonstrates the GX-1's expressive vibrato capabilities. On the final Led Zeppelin tours, Jones used the GX-1 as his primary keyboard, performing string, organ, clavinet and bass/synth. parts (see photo #3: Jones performing on GX-1 at the Knebworth, UK shows in '79 [top pic in this post]; the last time the original foursome performed together before John Bonham's death). Jones called the GX-1 "a joy," which replaced his repair-prone Mellotron.

Keith Emerson acquired the GX-1 from Jones in the mid-'80s as a spare for Emerson's original GX-1 (used with ELP in the late '70s). Emerson cannibalized some of his original GX-1 for the benefit of this unit. He used this GX-1 most prominently on the "Emerson, Lake & Powell" album & tour in the late '80s, and in the music video of the title track of ELP's "Black Moon" reunion album in the early '90s (see photos #4 & #5 [2nd pic in this post]; keyboard on top of GX-1 not included). "Emerson, Lake & Powell" tracks featuring this GX-1 include "Touch & Go" and his synth. rendition of Holst's "Mars: Bringer Of War." Emerson sold the GX-1 to renowned film composer Hans Zimmer in the mid-'90s, who sampled various sounds on it (see photo #6 [3rd pic in this post]: GX-1 in Zimmer's studio; Moog modular not included). The GX-1 was also used for recording sessions by musicians including Erik Norlander on his "Threshold" album. (Note: Keith Emerson's Wikipedia entry is incorrect: his original GX-1 [painted black] was sold to a European collector, and this unit was sold to Zimmer, then to the Seller)

This auction is for the: keyboard/console (including programmable cartridges; see photo #9), separate ultra-rare Programmer Module (see photo #11), and original Anvil-style case (used by Jones, Emerson, Zimmer and the Seller). Sale does NOT include: the GX-1's bench/pedal section, two TX-II speakers, and the programmable cartridges for the Pedal section only (which were not included when Seller acquired it).

It works, but after playing it for a while, it sometimes makes a noise and must be turned off and then turned back on. Being sold "as is." Seller can refer Buyer to several qualified GX-1 technicians. [Minor] tuning/calibrating will probably be required after shipment. Copies of any manuals (User/Technical/Service/etc.), brochures and other GX-1 information Seller has will be included. Has balanced outputs (see labeled photo #12), which may be custom. John Paul Jones had the switches/LED panel added (over the Electone logo area), which may be disconnected (appear to have no effect anymore)...

Here's some miscellaneous information:
- only about 27-30 GX-1's were ever manufactured and/or sold (unit's Serial Number is 0076)
- the most powerful polyphonic synthesizer in history at the time
- 3 keyboards (2 standard manuals; 1 solo manual); volume pedal; retractable knee vibrato controller
- unheard of levels of touch control (touch/velocity-sensitive, polyphonic aftertouch, etc.)
- approx. outer dimensions of keyboard console 63"(L) x 31"(W) x 46"(H)
- top area (where other keyboards can be placed) is about 60"(L) x 10"(W)
- weight in Anvil-style road case is about/over 1,000 pounds
- was the basis for Yamaha's popular CS-80/etc. synthesizers"
SN 5076

via John

See this post for a close-up of the programmer.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Moog System 55 Update - Not Keith Emerson's?

See Update3 in this post.

MOOG SYSTEM 55 MODULAR Update

The Moog System 55 in this post has been re-listed with some additional details and a lower starting price. According to the auction this was Keith Emerson's System 55. The list of modules have been added as well.

Update: It looks like this is not Keith Emerson's after all. See Update3 in this post.

MOOG SYSTEM 55 MODULAR for Sale

via this auction

Tons of pics at the auction, including the inside.

Update1 via 3P in the comments: "That's not a stock 55--the FFB should be a 914, not a 907. Some other modules are out of place as well."

Update2 via eben in the comments: "it looks like this has been relisted [link], and is $15000 at the moment. it appears to be kieth emmerson's 'spare' modular system! also i just noticed they have used my picture of ms peel in the auction... "

Update3: Correction via the auction: "This particular 55 was purchased from Will Alexander, the famous (Keith Emerson's) synth tech."

Some details from the new listing: "For your consideration is this 1976 Moog System 55 modular synthesizer. This complete unit (every module and keyboard) recently underwent an extensive $7,000+ service, and has been used less than 2 hours since. This particular 55 was owned by Keith Emerson, and was acquired from his good friend and personal synth tech, who has worked with Emerson both on the road and in the studio for over 30 years.

List of Modules :
1) 921 VCO (12/9/76, 12/10/76, 12/23/76)
2) 907 Fixed Filter Bank (RA Moog, '69)
3) 904-A Voltage Controlled Low Pass Filter (RA Moog, 08/01/70)
4) 992 Control Voltages (09/14/77, 09/23/77)
5) 911 Envelope Generator (10/13/76, 10/16/76)
6) 902 Voltage Controlled Generator (01/17/77, 01/17/77)
7) 911 Envelope Generator (10/14/76)
8) 902 Voltage Controlled Amplifier (06/13/69)
9) 902 Voltage Controlled Amplifier (01/14/77, 01/17/77)
10) 902 Voltage Controlled Amplifier (11/11/76, 11/22/76)
11) 902 Voltage Controlled Amplifier (11/12/76)
12) 993 Trigger and Envelope Voltages (06/22/77)
13) 911 Envelope Generator (10/09/74, 10/10/74, 12/27/74)
14) 911A Dual Trigger Delay (06/21/77, 06/22/77)
15) 911 Envelope Generator (10/14/76)
16) 911 Envelope Generator (01/07/77, 01/12/77)
17) 921A Oscillator Drive (01/03/77, 01/06/77, 01/06/77)
18) 921B Oscillator (01/14/77, 01/21/77, 02/03/77)
19) 921B Oscillator (12/27/76, 12/28/76, 12/28/76)
20) 921B Oscillator (01/13/77, 01/17/77, 01/18/77)
21) 921A Oscillator (11/16/73, 11/17/73, 12/5/73)
22) 921B Oscillator (11/21/73, 12/06/73, 12/13/73)
23) 921B Oscillator (01/14/77, 01/18/77, 01/19/77)
24) 904A Voltage Controlled Low Pass Filter (09/10/76)
25) 903A Random Signal Generator (10/04/76)
26) 994 Multiples (Difficult to read test production/test dates)
27) 960 Sequential Controller (03/23/77, 04/30/77, 11/17/77)
28) 962 Sequential Switch (07/22/77, 08/30/77)
29) 930 Power Supply (--/--/76)
30) 995 Attenuators (no tag)
31) CP2
32) CP8A
33) 961CP Interface
34) CP3A
35) CP3A (with locking pot mod)
36) CP3A (with locking pot mod)
37) Blank Moog Panel
38) 950 Keyboard Controller (RA Moog, 07/06/68)

The reason for some modules being RA Moog, some being from '73, and others dating from '76-'77, is because as Emerson would service his monster Moog's modules one at a time, he would swap between units. Although at one point this was an intact '76/'77 System, it has since been serviced and repaired, as Emerson's demanding touring schedule dictated.

The auction includes both original cabinets, (although the smaller top cabinet is in rough shape due to tour abuse), a reissue 22-space top cabinet, a reissue keyboard garage/stand, an original 950 RA Moog controller, and a variety of cables. Everything one needs to fully use this synth will be included.

As explained, this synth works perfectly and sounds amazing. We encourage local interest to come view, inspect, and hear the unit in person."

Update3: It looks like this may not be Keith Emerson's after all. The following is via an email from "Keith Emerson Business Office" forwarded to me by Michelle Moog-Koussa of the Bob Moog Foundation.

"Dear All,

Please post/forward this everywhere. Keith does not wish anyone to fall victim of fraud, especially for $15100 or potentially much more.

This item sold on ebay is claimed to have been owned by Keith Emerson.
It is either
1) constructed with stolen parts, or
2) complete misrepresentation (It was never owned by Keith).

Keith does own a small back-up unit that is supposed to be in a storage unit, but it looks nothing like the photos on this page. He has NEVER sold or given any MOOG units to anyone.

Keith asked the seller to disclose the name of the person who sold it to him, but he refused to disclose the info. (Keith has a very good idea who that is, and I'm sure you do too)

Keith requested the seller to remove the listing, and has reported the fraudulent listing to eBay."

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BMF Re-Configures Erik Norlander’s “Wall of Doom”

via the Bob Moog Foundation where you'll find more pics and the full story.

"Amos Gaynes [right] and August Worley [left] - To many of you, Amos Gaynes from Moog Music needs no introduction. He is well-known in the synth community for his clear and insightful articulation of all things that involve a Moog tech. Amos understands the contemporary Moog gear inside and out as a tech and as a creator of firmware for some of the newer products. A student of mechatronics at UNC-A, he is well on his way to becoming an engineering force at Moog Music, Inc.

August Worley is an electrical engineer who shares a unique qualification with Bob Moog. August is the only person to have worked at Moog Music Buffalo, Big Briar, Inc. and Moog Music Asheville. He was part of the engineering team who helped Bob develop the Voyager. August was uniquely qualified to work on this modular project, as he formerly toured with ELP as the keyboard tech for Keith Emerson’s Monster Moog Modular. He also developed the pyrotechnics for Keith’s Moog ribbon controller.

Between the two, Amos and August have donated over 60 hours of time to the completely reconfiguration of the Wall of Doom in to its new home." Be sure to see the full article for tons of more pics and the full story behind Erik Norlander's "Wall of Doom" and upcoming event with the system, at Moogus Operandi on May 27th"

Keith Emerson's Modular Moog

flickr by Friendly Joe
(click for more)


"Which he's pounding right now... :)"

Waves of Inspiration: The Legacy of Moog Exibition Updates

"Exhibition features Keith Emerson's Legendary “Monster Moog” Modular Synthesizer through October 18th, 2009

CARSLBAD, CA/ASHEVILLE, NC – The Museum of Making Music (Carlsbad, CA), in partnership with the Bob Moog Foundation, has opened Waves of Inspiration: The Legacy of Moog exhibition, to run through April 30, 2010. The exhibit is the first of its kind, marking the first public display of the artifacts from Bob Moog’s archives and an examination of the impact of his work on the world of music.

MONSTER MOOG INSTALLATION
On August 30th, Keith Emerson's (Emerson, Lake and Palmer, The Nice) mammoth “Monster Moog” modular synthesizer was added to the exhibit after it was featured the previous evening in a musical celebration of the exhibit opening by Emerson and Erik Norlander. Emerson used this remarkable instrument on numerous recordings over the past 40 years, including his solo in “Lucky Man” (1969), possibly the most popular synth solo in history. He also used the synthesizer on countless world tours and is generally credited with pioneering the use of the Moog modular as a touring musician.

The “Monster Moog” began as a modest system, but grew over time as Emerson
requested that Moog create custom additions for his touring instrument, including extra modules, custom sample-and-hold, and several pre-sets, an innovative addition for that time. The synthesizer grew into a massive cabinet of five sections and over 75 modules. It stands more than four feet above its special base – almost 8 feet high. Its sound is noticeably clearer and stronger than any other keyboard Emerson plays – it is an instrument of significance and legend, and arguably the most famous synthesizer of all time.

Bob Moog and Keith Emerson enjoyed a special relationship of toolmaker and musician that grew in to a lifelong friendship. Moog is noted for listening to musician's needs and technical specifications which he then used to improve his instruments: This dynamic is explored throughout the Waves exhibit.

KEITH EMERSON

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Keith Emerson's Moog Modular

via The Big City Music blog where you will find the full write-up and one more shot with Keith.

"It sounded amazing when he played it at the Waves of Inspiration / Legacy of Moog event in Carlsbad last weekend."