Moog MG-1 Realistic Concertmate Synthesizer

The Realistic Concertmate MG-1, introduced in 1981, is an analog synthesizer co-developed by Moog Music and Tandy Corporation for Radio Shack's "Realistic" brand. Designed as an affordable entry into synthesis, it became Moog's best-selling synthesizer, with approximately 23,000 units sold between 1982 and 1983. Despite its budget-friendly design, the MG-1 offers genuine Moog sounds, making it a popular choice among musicians seeking classic analog tones.

The MG-1 features two voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs) with selectable waveforms and octave ranges, allowing for rich monophonic sounds. Additionally, it includes a polyphonic organ section utilizing a divide-down oscillator system, enabling full polyphony for organ-like textures. A 24 dB/octave low-pass filter provides classic Moog filtering capabilities. The instrument also offers a ring modulation effect, labeled as "Bell Tone," and a sample-and-hold function for modulation purposes. Notably, the MG-1's design shares similarities with the Moog Rogue but includes unique features like the polyphonic section, independent amounts of LFO sent to the VCO and VCF and an internal power supply.