The instrument
The Moog Prodigy, produced from 1979 to 1984, is a monophonic analog synthesizer designed as an affordable entry into Moog's lineup. Featuring a 32-note keyboard, it became popular for its rich analog sounds and straightforward interface. Notably, the British electronic band The Prodigy derived their name from this synthesizer, highlighting its cultural impact. The Prodigy was utilized by various artists, including 808 State and Fatboy Slim, underscoring its versatility in electronic music.
Details
The Prodigy boasts two voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs), each offering sawtooth, triangle, and pulse waveforms. These oscillators can be detuned to create rich, layered sounds. A 24 dB/octave low-pass filter with resonance (emphasis) control shapes the timbre, while two ADS/ADR envelope generators manage the amplitude and filter modulation. The low-frequency oscillator (LFO) provides triangle and square waveforms, routable to both the VCO and VCF for vibrato and filter sweeps. Performance controls include pitch and modulation wheels, with portamento for glide effects. Models produced after 1981, starting from serial number 4610, feature control voltage (CV) and gate inputs, allowing integration with external controllers and sequencers.