The instrument
Introduced in the mid-1970s, the Moog Model 285A Analog Polypedal Controller is a foot controller designed to control various parameters of Moog’s analog synthesizers. This device was aimed at providing musicians with a hands-free method for manipulating synthesis parameters such as pitch, filter cutoff, and modulation depth. The 285A was designed to work with several Moog synthesizers, offering a high level of control over sound manipulation during live performances. The controller’s unique “polypedal” system allowed for the simultaneous control of multiple parameters using multiple foot pedals, giving performers more dynamic control over their sound than traditional knob-based interfaces. While it wasn’t as widely produced as other Moog instruments, the 285A is recognized for its general role in enhancing live synthesizer performances.
Details
The Moog Model 285A featured multiple foot pedals, each dedicated to controlling different aspects of the synthesizer’s sound, such as pitch, modulation, and filter cutoff. Its innovative design allowed for simultaneous manipulation of multiple parameters, providing a level of expressiveness that was unique for its time. The controller included voltage-controlled outputs that could be connected to Moog synthesizers, making it compatible with models such as the Minimoog and Modular System. The device's sensitivity and precise control allowed musicians to create nuanced, expressive performances without the need to manually adjust knobs during a live show. Despite its limited production, the 285A remains a memorable piece of Moog's legacy, especially in the development of foot-controlled synthesizer interfaces.