The Moog Memorymoog, launched in 1982, is a legendary polyphonic analog synthesizer known for its rich sound textures and preset storage capability. This model marked a significant advance in the field of synthesizers, offering advanced polyphonic features and an intuitive programming interface.
Virtual MOOG Memorymoog
Moog Memorymoog: The Polyphonic Powerhouse
Overview of the Moog Memorymoog
The Moog Memorymoog, introduced in 1981, was Moog’s flagship polyphonic analog synthesizer. It represented Moog’s response to the growing demand for polyphonic synthesizers in the early 1980s, competing with instruments like the Sequential Circuits Prophet-5 and the Oberheim OB-series.
Key Features of the Moog Memorymoog
- Synthesis: Analog subtractive synthesis
- Polyphony: 6-voice polyphonic
- Oscillators: 3 oscillators per voice (18 total)
- Filter: Classic Moog 24dB/octave low-pass filter per voice
- Envelope Generators: 3 ADSR envelopes per voice
- LFO: 1 LFO per voice
- Keyboard: 61-key keyboard
- Memory: 100 patch memory locations
- Arpeggiator: Built-in arpeggiator
- MIDI: Later models included MIDI functionality
Development and Innovation
The Memorymoog was developed during a time when Moog Music was under the ownership of Norlin. It was designed to compete with other polyphonic synthesizers while maintaining the classic Moog sound.
Unique Aspects
- Moog Sound in Polyphony: Offered the classic Moog tone in a polyphonic format
- Powerful Architecture: Three oscillators per voice provided rich, complex sounds
- Patch Memory: Allowed storing and recalling of sounds, a significant feature at the time
Impact on Music Production
Applications in Music
- Pop and Rock: Used by many artists for its lush pads and powerful lead sounds
- Electronic Music: Popular for creating complex, evolving textures
- Film Scoring: Valued for its ability to create rich, expressive sounds
Legacy and Historical Significance
- Represented Moog’s entry into the polyphonic synthesizer market
- Known for its powerful sound and complex modulation capabilities
- Despite production issues, became a sought-after instrument among synthesizer enthusiasts
Conclusion: The Memorymoog’s Place in Synthesizer History
The Moog Memorymoog stands as a significant instrument in the history of polyphonic synthesizers. While it faced some reliability issues, its rich, powerful sound and extensive features made it a favorite among many musicians. The Memorymoog represented Moog’s ambitious attempt to enter the polyphonic market, and while it may not have achieved the same long-term success as some of its competitors, it remains a highly regarded and sought-after instrument among synthesizer enthusiasts and collectors.