Moog 16 Channel Vocoder Processing Videos

Published on Apr 2, 2020 Moog Music Inc

PLAYLIST:

1. Moog 16 Channel Vocoder | Counting Sample Processing

In this composition, the Moog 16 Channel Vocoder’s program input is being driven by a microphone, while the Moog IIIp modular synthesizer acts as the carrier signal. A Eurorack modular system provides melodic sequencing for the IIIp, as well as modulation sources for some of the vocoder’s synthesizer inputs while in external patch mode. Two Moog DFAMs handle rhythmic accompaniment to round out the arrangement.

2. Moog 16 Channel Vocoder | IIIp and Vocal Processing

In this composition, the Moog 16 Channel Vocoder’s program input is being driven by a microphone, while the Moog IIIp modular synthesizer acts as the carrier signal. A Eurorack modular system provides melodic sequencing for the IIIp, as well as modulation sources for some of the vocoder’s synthesizer inputs while in external patch mode. Two Moog DFAMs handle rhythmic accompaniment to round out the arrangement.

3. Moog 16 Channel Vocoder | MPC Breakbeat Processing

In this example, an Akai MPC1000 sends a breakbeat sample to the Moog 16 Channel Vocoder’s program input. A Moog Matriarch serves as the carrier input. The Matriarch is operating in four voice mode, and the keyboard is used to provide the chordal sequence used to transform the breakbeat.

4. Moog 16 Channel Vocoder | 808 Processing

In this composition, rather than the typical microphone, the Moog 16 Channel Vocoder’s program input is being driven by a Roland TR-808 drum machine. A Eurorack modular system provides the chordal content for the vocoder’s carrier input, as well as all the drums and percussion. The external patch functionality on the vocoder is being used to create two distinct timbres, while the rear Patch Select input jack receives gate signals from a Eurorack sequencer to toggle back and forth between the two timbres. The vocoder’s output is being processed by a Roland RE-150 Space Echo and OTO BAM for a bit of warm tape delay and reverb. Finally, a Moog Mother-32 provides a rich ostinato bassline to tie everything together.

Herb Deutsch's Moog Vocoder (Bode) 16-chan 327A Up for Auction

via this auction

"Just serviced. Rare Moog Vocoder Model 327A/MBVO (16-channel), co-designed by Dr. Harald Bode & Dr. Bob Moog. This unit is a piece of musical history, too, as it was owned by Dr. Herb Deutsch, who co-designed the first Moog synthesizer in the early '60s with Dr. Bob Moog. Seller knows Herb Deutsch personally & acquired the unit from him directly (authenticity can be provided). Includes copies of manuals/documentation & patch images. The Moog Vocoder was used by artists including Wendy Carlos, Moog Cookbook, Devo, Saga, Yellow Magic Orchestra, and filmmaker/composer John Carpenter, among others.

In 1979, Moog Music released its vocoder, although its design and architecture are almost identical to the Bode 7702 model (see image of Bode Vocoder with a "cross-over" patch). It's a 16-band analog vocoder, which separates voice/synthesizer sounds (carrier signal) into frequency-bands ranging from 50 to 5080 cycles-per-second. It does not have any internal oscillators, so it is designed to be used as a signal processor for external carrier & modulator wave sources. The modulator is typically a vocal or drum beat used to modulate the carrier/synth sound being processed. It has microphone & line inputs, as well as 16 synthesizer inputs (1 for each frequency-band), and 16 outputs. This 16-channel cross-matrix patching system provides incredible flexibility, allowing for full external patching between synth & vocoder sections. Other features include a high-frequency bypass, a short 6ms response time for capturing fast percussive sounds, sample-and-hold, and a global bypass switch to turn off the vocoding effect (it has no built-in output mixer, MIDI or CV/Gate).

Sounds great! Recent service included replacement of parts, cleaning & otherwise. Includes power cord, but no patch cords (Seller can refer Buyer to patch cord vendors). The handles/rack-mounts are reversible. 115v/220v switchable. In good physical condition but has some surface scratches, etc. Message Seller with any questions. Moog Vocoders have sold for more than US$5,000 on eBay & private transactions in recent years.

Example: Hear the nearly-identical Bode 7702 vocoder in action [video below]

Own a piece of musical history, and a great addition to any modern studio!"





Bode (Moog) Vocoder 7702 Demonstration Uploaded by intromix on Jun 13, 2011

Moog Music Announces the Return of the Moog 16 Channel Vocoder

"The Moog 16 Channel Vocoder Returns

After more than 40 years, the Moog 16 Channel Vocoder is officially back in production.

Originally introduced in 1978 (and heard most famously on the title track of Giorgio Moroder’s E=MC2), the instrument has been used to transmute vocals, transform synthesizers, and electronically encode sound for decades.

The Moog 16 Channel Vocoder’s analog voice circuits, derived from the original schematic, are hand-soldered at the Moog Factory in Asheville, North Carolina to preserve the original instrument’s classic sound."

via Moog Music

"The history of the vocoder is as unique as the sound it produces.

In the 1930s, Bell Labs introduced the technology as a telecommunications device that could deconstruct the most fundamental elements of human speech and then reconstruct a new electronically synthesized voice. During WWII, the US military used this advancement to electronically encode classified audio messages that could be reconstituted on the receiving end.

Over the following decades, music technologies would explore the artistic applications of the vocoder, whose robotic vocal articulations would soon find their way into mainstream music, television, films, and games. The influential sound machine has been used by the likes of Stevie Wonder, Herbie Hancock, Dr. Dre, Kraftwerk, Daft Punk and many more.


The Moog 16 Channel Vocoder, originally introduced in 1978 (and heard most famously on the title track of Giorgio Moroder’s E=MC2), has been used to transmute vocals, transform synthesizers, and electronically encode sound for decades.



With the instrument’s reintroduction, Moog Music has gone to great lengths to ensure that this distinct electronic voice carries on. Derived from the original vintage schematic, the Moog 16 Channel Vocoder’s analog voice circuits are hand-soldered at the Moog Factory in Asheville, North Carolina to preserve the original instrument’s classic sound. Updated mechanical connectors and a modern power supply improve reliability and long-term serviceability while ensuring that the analog soul of this instrument—and its unique character and idiosyncrasies—remains unchanged."



Moses Sumney | Conveyor at the Moog Sound Lab

Published on Feb 4, 2020

'Moses Sumney, accompanied by a full band, recently visited the Moog Sound Lab in Asheville, North Carolina to perform a reimagination of 'Conveyor' from his forthcoming album ‘græ.’

In this rendition of the unreleased track, Sumney processes his vocals through the Moog 16 Channel Vocoder, using the Matriarch synthesizer to serve as the vocoder’s carrier signal in order to transform and resynthesize his voice. Sumney also incorporates a looper pedal to manipulate both the dry and vocoded vocals, creating rhythmic patterns throughout the track. He is accompanied by Zach Cooper on bass, Mike Haldeman on guitar, Darian Thomas on violin, and Ian Chang on drums and sensory percussion.

Moses Sumney’s upcoming release includes collaborations with a diverse array of contributors and is his first work to be written in his new home of Asheville, North Carolina—also the home of Moog Music Inc. Double LP græ will be released via Jagjaguwar Records, with the first part due digitally this month; the second part, as well as the physical album, will be available May 15th."

1979 Moog Vocoder

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

via this auction

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Vintage MOOG SIGNAL PROCESSORS

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

via this auction

See the original advert for the set in this post.

via the seller: "THIS IS A ONCE IN A LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY FOR ANYONE TO OWN ALL THESE UNITS WITHOUT HAVING TO WAIT YEARS & YEARS TO FIND THEM ALL... IT TOOK ME MANY YEARS TO FIND THEM ALL AND SPENT LOTS OF MONEY ON THEM PLUS ALL THE ELECTRONIC MAINTENANCE I HAVE GIVEN TO EACH ONE OF THEM TO HAVE THEM WORK ALL 100%.

I have 5 units in a robust ATA Molded PE Shock w/ Rubber Shock Suspension (12U Space) Model: G-Shock-12L almost new with both front and back lid covers with it's own locking key as well... (REFER TO PHOTOS...) And the Moog Parametric Equalizer as a single unit because it didn't fit in the case unfortunately... But you get all 6 units shipped together as a complete set... NOTE: On the last picture the Bode Frequency Shifter, Bode Vocoder, and the second Moog Parametric EQ ARE NOT included in the bundle they are there just because that's where I had mounted both Parametric EQs but you only get one of the Parametric EQs and not 2 that are pictured there along with the other Bode stuff... Although the Bode Units are going for sale as well but are being sold separately so please refer to info description or ask questions if you're not sure. Thanks...

Here's what's included in the bundle:

- Moog 16 Channel Vocoder 327A - Model: MBVO - X 1 Unit
- Moog Custom Engineering String Filter - ( Fully Calibrated...) - X 1 Unit
- Moog Custom Engineering Dual VCO - ( Fully Calibrated As Well...) - X 1 Unit
- Moog 12 Stage Phaser - Model: MPKH - X 1 Unit
- Moog Three Band Parametric Equalizer 304A - Model: MKPE - X 1 Unit
- Moog Ten Band Graphic Equalizer - Model: MKGE - X 1 Unit

Here's some info you may want to know about each unit:

* Moog Dual VCO - The Moog Dual Voltage Controlled Oscillator was built in very limited quantities by the Moog Custom Engineering Department A.K.A. Modusonic which has 2 Ultra-Stable VCOs based on the 3rd Revision of the Minimoog 921A VCO With Temp Comp UA 726 Matched Differential Pair Transistors. SUPER FREAKING PHAT..!!! Personally I think it beats any Minimoog I've own... The waveforms are just "EARGASMIC"... =) You've got to hear it for yourself... The Moog Dual VCO was designed to add that extra two oscillator fatness to other Moog Synthesizers as the Multimoog, Micromoog and the Minimoog at the time; although the Minimoog required the addition of the Keyboard CV Output Modification so it could control the Moog Dual VCO's pitch and route it's output back into the Minimoog's External Audio Input... The Micromoog & Multimoog did not require this mod because they have already a Keyboard CV Output Jack as well as their respective audio input. So basically you can use the Moog Dual VCO with any Analog Synthesizer with a Keyboard CV Output (1 Volt/Oct.) and an External Audio Input to pass the Dual VCO's output signal back in it and voila two extra fat Moog Oscillators in your set up.

* Functions, Features & Input/Output Option:

- Master Tune - Controls overall tuning of both oscillators or one when only used as single...
- Pulse Width - Controls width of both oscillator's pulse waveforms when used either as single or dual.
- Octave Select Multi-Switch Knob with: LO, 32', 16', 8', 4', 2'. (Both Oscillator 1 & 2 have their own Multi-Switch Knob)
- Waveform Select Switch with: Up Ramp/Sawtooth, Triangle, Pulse, Sine.
- Oscillator On/Off Switch - Each Oscillator has it's own on/off switch to quickly add or subtract one oscillator while performing.
- Oscillator 2 Sync Switch - Automatically syncs both oscillators together by the flick of a switch.
- Oscillator 2 Tune Knob - To tune or detune oscillator 2 from 1 either while synced or un-synced.
- Output Level Knob - Controls overall output volume.
- Power Switch - Turns on/off unit.
- Oscillator 1 CV Input Jack 1/4" (1 Volt/Oct.) - Controls oscillator 1 only.
- Both In 1 CV Input Jack 1/4" (1 Volt/Oct.) - Controls pitch of both oscillators while oscillator 1 being the master controller.
- Oscillator 1 Output Jack 1/4" - Outputs signal of oscillator 1 only.
- Oscillator 2 CV Input Jack 1/4" (1 Volt/Oct.) - Controls oscillator 2 only.
- Both In 2 CV Input Jack 1/4" (1 Volt/Oct.) - Controls pitch of both oscillators.
- Oscillator 2 Output Jack 1/4" - Outputs signal of oscillator 2 only.
- X 4 Multiple Output Jacks 1/4" - Note: These are not connected whatsoever to any circuit inside the unit, they only serve to split any input or output signal you wish to multiply.
- Runs on 120 VAC Only.

* Moog 16 Channel Vocoder - The Moog 16 Channel Vocoder was designed by Genius Engineer and Pioneer In Electronic Music Instruments Harald Bode in the mid 70's about and first released in about 1977 under the "Bode Sound Company" Brand which was manufactured by Polyfusion under the name of Bode Vocoder 16 Channel Model 7702, and was then licensed to the Moog Synthesizer Brand in about 1978 which was then released as The Moog 16-Channel Vocoder 327A Model MBVO. Both Vocoders are almost identical in circuit design except for a few slight variations in the type of components that were used in each but functions and features are basically the same...

* Functions, Features & Input/Output Option:

CLICK FOR MORE »

moog vocoder prophet

YouTube via mattmoogstar101. sent my way via VoiceEncoder
"This is a quick 1 take demo made especially for voice encoder and intromix.The Moog vocoder 1979 was almost identical to the bode vocoder which came out in the early 1970s. This blows away my VP330 for power but the roland vp is better for harmonies and singing with. Please see this as only a rough quick demo with mistakes using just the vid cams mic. I will make a proper demo soon."

moog vocoder ob1

"this is a rough demo with mistakes of the moog vocoder and the ob1"
Flashdance

Vocoder Experiment 1

Vocoder Experiment 1 by chrisstack
"A quick-and-dirty recording of some dual vocal processors in action... simultaneously playing an Alesis Micron vocoder through a Moog MF-101 Low Pass Filter (controlled by an expression pedal) and a TC Helicon Voiceworks controlled by a MIDI keyboard. Background is Moog Voyager and Little Phatty, Yamaha MO8 and Korg MicroX (both non-Moog run through MF-101s)"
Update: Chris Stack is the Marketing Director for Moog Music

Update:

Vocoder Experiment #2
Vocoder Experiment #2 by chrisstack
"Further experiments in multiple vocal processors. Alesis Micron vocoder through Moog MF-101 Low Pass Filter w/ expression pedal, TC Helicon Voiceworks controlled by MIDI keyboard, bass is Moog Little Phatty. Rest is Yamaha MO8 through 2 Moog MF-101s and Kurzweil K2000 through Moog MIDI MuRF."

Bob Moog Foundation Announces Significant Archive Additions

"Asheville, NC - February 2014... The Bob Moog Foundation (BMF) has announced significant additions to the Asheville, NC-based foundation's archives. Included in these new additions are several rare prototypes, including one of the few Moog Apollo Synthesizers in the world (the Apollo became the prototype for the Polymoog), the Moog Liberation, Moog Drum Controller, Moog Sequencer, Moog Song Producer, Moog Feedback Suppressor; as well as production models of the Minutemoog, and a Moog Vocoder. Also added to the archives are more than 1,000 schematic drawings dating from 1965 through 1985.

'These instruments and drawings join our growing collection of treasures that also includes Roger Powell's custom keyboard controller, designed by Bob; a duophonic Minimoog; and two vintage theremins,' remarked Michelle Moog-Koussa, executive director of the Bob Moog Foundation and daughter of the late inventor. 'We're thrilled with the ongoing interest our archives are generating from organizations and individuals.'

These latest additions to the Foundation's collection of historic documents and musical instruments come on the heels of the permanent loan of vintage instruments by the Music Department of University of North Carolina at Greensboro in December 2013.

According to Moog-Koussa, over 400 of the more than 1,000 documents received in this latest contribution have already been inventoried and entered into a searchable database.

'But that's just the beginning,' she continues. 'We will soon begin the most detailed and formalized part of the archiving process - cataloging. It takes time to do it right, but these materials are too significant not to do it right.' She anticipates the process will take 12 to 18 months, after which the documents will be scanned and the most significant of them shared.

'Creating a wide-ranging collection that includes not only his work, but also the work of those he influenced is the goal of the Bob Moog Foundation,' she adds. 'It is from this perspective that we can achieve the truest picture of his life's work and ultimately appreciate his contributions to science and music.'

As Moog-Koussa observes, her father was generous with his talent and knowledge. 'Inspiring others fueled his own creativity. We endeavor to carry on that tradition at BFM.'

Moog-Koussa points to the work of Dr. Bob's Sound School (DBSS) as an example of BMF's ongoing outreach and education, an important part of her father's legacy. The 10-week curriculum teaches second grade students the physics of sound using acoustic and electronic musical instruments such as the theremin, as well as oscilloscopes. The information is supplemented by custom educational materials developed by the BMF educational team. 'Bob was a life-long learner,' his daughter explains. 'He never stopped asking 'what if' and wanted others to ask the same question. I can't think of a better tribute to his life and work than encouraging a new generation to ask the same question.'


***
About the Bob Moog Foundation

The Bob Moog Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located in Asheville, North Carolina. Our mission is to ignite creativity through the intersection of music, science and innovation. The Bob Moog Foundation was founded to honor the legacy of Bob Moog by inspiring people of all ages through the genius of Bob's legendary work in providing innovative musical instruments to musicians, giving them a new voice for creativity. The Foundation provides much-needed innovative and effective educational opportunities to today's youth - tomorrow's generation of creative thinkers and problem solvers.

The Bob Moog Foundation is not affiliated with Moog Music."

http://moogfoundation.org

Moog 16-channel Vocoder Demo

Published on Feb 4, 2020 Sweetwater

"Daniel Fisher is demonstrating the Moog Vocoder, originally released in 1979 and used by artists such as Wendy Carlos, Devo, Giorgio Moroder, Moog Cookbook, Saga, Yellow Magic Orchestra, and filmmaker/composer John Carpenter, among others. A 16-band analog signal processor that continuously analyzes the timbral characteristics of a sound (the Program) and impresses its timbral characteristics upon a second signal (the Carrier), the Vocoder is perfect for mutating vocals, warping synthesizers, and much more. The 16-channel Vocoder’s analog voice circuits are hand-soldered at the employee-owned Moog Factory in Asheville, NC to deliver that classic ’70s sound.

Fisher is using the Moog Matriarch Semi-Modular Analog Synthesizer both in front of the Vocoder (with its oscillators and filters) as well as after the Vocoder (with its Stereo Analog Ping Pong Delay)."

The Bob Moog Foundation Announces Significant Archive Additions

"Anaheim, CA (January 23, 2014) – Michelle Moog-Koussa, executive director of the Bob Moog Foundation™ (BMF) and daughter of inventor Bob Moog, today announced additions to the Asheville-based foundation’s archives including over 1,000 schematic drawings from 1965 to 1985; several rare prototypes, including a Moog Apollo synthesizer (the Apollo became the prototype for the Polymoog), the Moog Liberation, the Moog 1130 Drum Controller, Moog Sequencer, Moog Song Producer, and Moog Feedback Suppressor; as well as production models of the Minitmoog, and a Moog Vocoder. The announcement was made on the first day of NAMM, an annual gathering of the music manufacturing industry, which attracts 100,000 people over the weekend.

'These instruments and drawings join our growing collection of treasures that includes, among other items, Roger Powell’s custom dual-keyboard controller, designed by Bob; a duophonic Minimoog; and two vintage theremins. We are thrilled with the ongoing interest our archives are generating from organizations and individuals,' Moog-Koussa said. These additions to the BMF’s collection of historic documents and musical instruments come on the heels of the BMF’s receipt of a permanent loan of vintage instruments by the Music Department of University of North Carolina at Greensboro in December 2013.

Moog-Koussa said that 400 of the more than 1,000 documents received in this latest contribution have already been inventoried and entered into a searchable database.

'But that’s just the beginning,' she said. 'We will soon begin the most detailed, formalized and time-consuming part of the archiving process – cataloguing. It takes time to do it right, and these materials are too important not to do it right.'

She anticipates that the cataloguing process will take between 12 and 18 months to complete. After that, the documents will be scanned and the most significant of them shared.

'Creating a wide-ranging collection that includes not only his work, but also the work of those he influenced is the goal of the Bob Moog Foundation. It is from this perspective that we can achieve the truest picture of his life’s work and ultimately appreciate his contributions to science and music,' she said.

'Bob was generous with his talent and knowledge; inspiring others fueled his own creativity,' Moog-Koussa said. 'We are doing that every day at BMF, just a little differently.'

Moog-Koussa points to the work of Dr. Bob’s Sound School™ (DBSS) as an example of BMF’s ongoing outreach and education that is an important part of her father’s legacy. The 10- week curriculum teaches second-grade students the physics of sound using acoustic and electronic musical instruments such as the theremin, as well as oscilloscopes. The information taught through the musical instruments is supplemented by custom educational materials developed by the BMF educational team. 'Bob was a life-long learner. He never stopped asking ‘what if’ and wanted others to ask the same question. I can’t think of a better tribute to his life and work than encouraging a new generation to ask the same question.'

The Bob Moog Foundation, based in Asheville, N.C., continues Bob Moog’s legacy of innovation through education and outreach programs that promote the intersection of music, science, history, and imagination.

The Bob Moog Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit entity, and is independent from, not affiliated with and not supported by Moog Music, Inc."

Moog Vocoder, 16 channel, patchable

via this auction

via the listing: "The Moog vocoder is based on the Bode 16 channel vocoder design. Some say the Moog sounds better, some say the Bode sounds better. I have used both and they both sound awesome with the right analog synthesizer carrier. Process analog synths through it, or drums, voices, guitars, anything with a line level. Endless applications especially with the patch bay. The characteristic sound of the Moog vocoder is one of the most impressive among all vocoders. With a Oberheim 2 voice as a carrier, it can produce one of the most harmonically rich, high voltage sounds with an electric punch that other vocoders just don't have. Also not many of these were made and even fewer in this condition."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Moog 16 Channel Analog Vocoder (With More Than Just Vocals)

Published on Mar 6, 2020 Perfect Circuit

"Moog has resumed production of their classic 16-Channel Vocoder—an effect heard on countless records from Giorgio Moroder to Wendy Carlos and Moog Cookbook. While vocoders are often considered synonymous with robotic vocals, there's much more to this incredible processor than just that.

Vocoders can be used to combine the spectral content of any two sounds, analyzing the frequency content of one sound and impressing it upon another—in this case, by employing sixteen channels of Moog filters and envelope followers. In this video, we used the Vocoder to impress the spectral profile of a Moog DFAM on a Moog Mother-32, to create spectrally gated vocals using the Division Department 01/IV, and to do some classic synth vocals with the Elektron Digitone.

A world-class way to do complex filtering, dynamic gating effects, synth voice, or even general-purpose envelope following, the Moog 16-Channel Vocoder is no doubt one of the best-sounding vocoders ever made.

16-Channel Vocoder available here: https://www.perfectcircuit.com/moog-v..."

Moog Vocoder - used on Monty Python recordings

images via this auction
"MOOG VOCODER - as used on many Monty Python productions

The Gear Garage is very proud to be presenting a fine collection of Monty Python Equipment in very good condition, well looked after and featured on many famous recordings with a unique heritage.

The Moog Vocoder we have here is recognisable from their recording of 'Here comes another one.'

Besides from being a superb and rare instrument it is a piece of history unlike any other. Anyone looking to buy such an article may consider this as an investment as well as a creative tool. Very likely to gain in value on both counts. NOW WITH ORIGINAL MANUAL!

Works perfectly. Good Condition."

Be sure to check out the sellers other auctions.

Monty Python Moog Vocoder

images via this auction
"Our MONTY PYTHON collection of Studio Equipment

MOOG VOCODER - as used on many Monty Python productions

The Gear Garage is very proud to be presenting a fine collection of Monty Python Equipment in very good condition, well looked after and featured on many famous recordings with a unique heritage.

The Moog Vocoder we have here is recognisable from their recording of 'Here comes another one.'

Besides from being a superb and rare instrument it is a piece of history unlike any other. Anyone looking to buy such an article may consider this as an investment as well as a creative tool. Very likely to gain in value on both counts. NOW WITH ORIGINAL MANUAL!"

Thief (1981) complete "Igneous" scene (music by TD)

video upload by kovalmoog

"The whole scene of Thief (1981) with TD's re-edition of 'Thru Metamorphic Rocks' theme, renamed as 'Igneous' in the OST release.
The film version is by far more extensive than Thief CD version.
Enjoy that sequence !"

TD = Tangerine Dream.

Curious what they were using back then. According to this thread, they used the following on tour during that time period:

Live in East Berlin, 31st Jan 1980

Chris Franke:
Custom modular synthesizer (comprising of about 50% Moog and 50%
Projekt Electronik):
Moog Oscx2/R.M./VCF/VCAs
Projekt Elektronik VcEnvx2 & Proj. Elek. 2VCO/W.Noise/R.M./Waves (for Drums)
Digital sequencer & trigger selector
Programmer for above (SCI model 700 programmer)
Synth sound bank (for above)
Moog 960 sequential controller x2
Projekt elektronik sequence controller x2
Moog 3-band parametric
Moog 12 stage phaser
Moog 920 programmer
Moog 16-channel vocoder
Rhythm robot sequencer
Emu Oddity voice card
12 analogue drum sounds
Drum envelope unit
Drum EPROM sampled sounds
and more...

Oberheim OB-1
Prophet 5 (rev 2)
Minimoog
Korg PE-2000 polyphonic Ensemble
Elka Rhapsody 610 string machine.

Edgar Froese:
custom Moog modular synthesizer (3 box units comprising Moog modules and sequencers plus sequence controllers from Projekt Electronic)
Prophet 5 rev 2
PPG Sonic Carrier 1003 programmable duophonic DCO/DCF/DCA based synthesizer
PPG Wavecomputer 360 polyphonic digital synthesizer
PPG 350 keyboard sequencer
Arp Pro-DGX monophonic preset synthesizer
Korg PE-2000 polyphonic ensemble
Roland MC-8 microcomposer
Roland VC-10 vocoder
Arp/Solina string ensemble
Mellotron mk V

Johannes Schmoelling:
- Minimoog
- Yamaha CP-80 electric grand
- Oberheim 4-voice
- Elka Rhapsody 610
- Polymoog
- Korg PS-3100
- Synthanorma sequencer

-----------

European tours (Nov-Dec 1980 & Jan-Feb 1981):

Equipment used:

Chris Franke:
Moog/PE modular tower as above
Minimoog
Arp Odyssey mk III
Elka Rhapsody 610
Prophet 5 rev 2

Edgar Froese:
Projekt Elektronik modular synthesizer & sequencers (used by Peter Baumann during '76 and '77)
PPG 340 A Generator Unit, PPG340 B Processor Unit, PPG380 Event Generator, PPG x 2 Terminals, PPG x 2 Computer Keyboards,
Oberheim OB-X

He may have used some more keyboards during these tours but I'm not sure which ones (possibly the Arp pro-DGX, the PPG Sonic carrier or the PPG
360 wavecomputer?)

Johannes Schmoelling:
Moog modular synthesizer (usually handled by Edgar Froese on stage)
Minimoog
Polymoog
Prophet 5 rev 2
Yamaha CP-80 electric grand

-----------

British Isles tour (Oct-Nov 1981):

Equipment used:

Chris Franke:
Moog/PE modular tower as above
Minimoog
Arp Odyssey mk III
Elka Rhapsody 610
Prophet 5 rev 2

Edgar Froese:
PPG 360 wavecomputer
PPG Wave 2
Arp Pro-DGX
Korg PE-2000 poly-ensemble
PPG 5-octave keyboard controller
Custom sequencer (by Helmut Groethe)

Johannes Schmoelling:
Minimoog
Oberheim OB-X (handled by Froese on previous tours)
Custom sequencer (like Edgar's)

Harold Bode's Birthday & the Bode Ring Modulator Schematics

via The Bob Moog Foundation

"It’s the birthday of Harald Bode (1909-1987), German-born pioneer in synthesizer design and inventor of the Warbo Formant Organ (one of the earliest polyphonic synths), the Melochord, and the Bode Frequency Shifter, among many other instruments and devices.

Bode and Bob Moog began to work together in 1966, and this ring modulator is an indication of their partnership. Bode’s Ring Modulator and Frequency Shifter designs were implemented in R.A. Moog Co. products, and his vocoder was the basis for the Moog Vocoder released in the 1970s.

The schematic below was hand-drawn by Bob Moog himself. (Note the the “B.S.” in the “drawn by” square. In order to keep from having his initials in all the boxes when he drew up a certain schematic, Bob would use joke initials B.S.) Image: Bob Moog Foundation schematic for the Bode Ring Modulator. Many more Bob Moog Foundation archival schematics here: http://moogfoundation.org/schematics/"

"Warbo Formant Organ (1937), an archetype of today's polyphonic synthesizer, was a four voice key-assignment keyboard with two formant filters and dynamic envelope controller. Eventually it went into commercial production by a factory in Dachau, and it became one of the earliest polyphonic synthesizer products, along with Novachord (1939) by Hammond.

Melochord (1947–1949) developed by Bode was extensively used by Werner Meyer-Eppler in early days of the electronic studio at Bonn University. Then in 1953 a Melochord, along with Monochord by Freidrich Trautwein, was specially commissioned by the Studio for Electronic Music of the Westdeutscher Rundfunk (WDR Studio in Cologne, West German Broadcasting Corporation), and used by the Elektronische Musik group throughout the 1950s. (See #Melochord at the WDR Studio in Cologne for details)

From 1950, Bode designed electronic organs for the Apparatewerk Bayern (AWB) in Germany and the Estey Organ Company in the United States. In 1954, Bode immigrated to the United States as a chief engineer (later vice-president) of Estey Organ, and resumed his research at several companies and as a contractor of German companies.

In 1959-1960, Bode developed modular synthesizer and sound processor, and in 1961, he wrote a paper exploring the advantages of newly emerging transistor technology over older vacuum tube devices; also he served as AES session chairman on music and electronic for the fall conventions in 1962 and 1964; after then, his ideas were adopted by Robert Moog, Donald Buchla and others.

After retiring from the chief engineer of Bell Aerospace in 1974, he composed TV-advertising spots and gave live concerts. Also in 1977, Harald was invited as a chief engineer of the Norlin/Moog Music after Robert Moog left.

He died in New York, New York, United States in 1987."

Moog 16-Channel Vocoder MBVO SN 0028

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via this auction

"Moog 16-Channel MBVO reissued Vocoder in mint / as new condition, serial number 0028. According to the distributor, only 100 of these units will ever be made by Moog. Vintage units currently sell for $10k+, so the window of opportunity is closing fast on these. This is a new unit fresh from the Moog factory that arrived here at our studio a few weeks ago. With the MBVO reissue, Moog have recreated the original 70's vocoder while improving on the power supply to make it much more reliable for the longterm. This unit will last for some time, and sounds amazing! You can hear it used all over Saga recordings, Giorgio Moroder, etc.

The very earliest MBVO reissues had an issue with the front panel graphics that was quickly resolved by Moog. That is not the case with this unit. Front graphics are perfect. Box was opened to verify functionality. Unit was never rackmounted. All patch cords are still sealed, as is the manual and signed certificate. The unit is still under warranty with Moog and will be transferred to the new owner after they receive it (new owner will need to open an account with Moog Music)."

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Moog 16 Channel Analog Vocoder

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via SYNTH CITY Reverb

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"Gently used Moog Vocoder, includes original power supply.

Moog Music has gone to great lengths to ensure that this distinct electronic voice carries on. Derived from the original vintage schematic, Moog 16 Channel Vocoder's analog voice circuits are hand-soldered at the employee-owned Moog Factory in Asheville, NC to preserve that classic 1978 sound. Updated mechanical connectors and a modern power supply improve reliability and long-term serviceability while ensuring that the analog soul of this instrument – and its unique character and idiosyncrasies – remains unchanged."

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Vocoder Videos via intromix

Vocoder What Is It? EMS 2000 Demo w/ Oberheim OB-8

YouTube via intromix. via Nusonica.
"Here is how an analog vocoder works. I am not going to use technical "jibberish" so I will speak normal vocabulary. This is the legendary EMS Vocoder 2000 (from 1977) which soundwise compares against Sennheiser, Moog(Bode), Synton, Roland, Korg. I will give a basic demonstration on how to use a vocoder and how a vocoder functions to give it that "robotic" sound. I used an Oberheim OB-8 Keyboard to trigger the pitch on the vocoder"

Sennheiser VSM-201 Vocoder Audio Samples

"Here are some audio samples dedicated to the usage of the legendary Sennheiser VSM-201 Vocoder. Being that there is hardly any info on the web in reference to this unit, I took the initiative to be probably the first person to post audio samples of this vintage dinosaur....ENJOY!!!"

Cylon Costume With Vocoder Sample

"Here is a sample of what my Cylon costume sounds like with the vocoder and red eye warble sound."

Egyptian Lover | Vocoder Jam | Moog 16-Channel Vocoder

video upload by Moog Music Inc

"Hip-hop and electro icon Egyptian Lover invites you inside his studio space for an analog jam session featuring the Moog 16-Channel Vocoder, Moog Matriarch, Moog Grandmother, and Roland TR-808.

In this video, the veteran electronic musician, DJ, MC, and producer is joined by keyboardist and long-time collaborator Brian Ellis to create a complete track based around the vocoder’s powerful sound transformation and customization possibilities. Watch and learn!

More from Egyptian Lover: https://thegyptianlover.bandcamp.com"