The instrument
The Moog Minimoog, introduced in 1970, is one of the most iconic and influential synthesizers ever made. Developed by one of Moog's engineer during his lunch breaks, the Minimoog was designed to be the first portable, affordable, and user-friendly alternative to the large modular synthesizers of the time. Its compact design and integrated keyboard made it accessible to a wider range of musicians, both in the studio and on stage. The Minimoog quickly became a favorite among musicians and producers, cementing its place in the history of electronic music.
The Minimoog was used by numerous influential artists, including Keith Emerson, Rick Wakeman, Chick Corea, and Kraftwerk. Its rich, warm analog sound and ease of use contributed to its widespread adoption across various music genres, from progressive rock to electronic music. The Minimoog's design and sound have influenced countless synthesizers that followed, solidifying its status as a seminal instrument in the development of modern music, a timeless classic which remains highly sought after by musicians and collectors today.
Details
The Moog Minimoog features three Voltage-Controlled Oscillators, providing a robust and versatile sound source. Each oscillator can produce multiple waveforms, including triangle, sawtooth, square, and pulse waves. The Minimoog also includes a famous 24dB/octave Voltage-Controlled Filter with resonance control, which is central to shaping its distinctive sound. The filter's ability to self-oscillate at high resonance settings added a unique sonic character that became a signature of the Minimoog.
The synthesizer is equipped with an ADS envelope generator and a Voltage-Controlled Amplifier, offering dynamic control over the amplitude of the sound. The Minimoog's interface includes a glide function, allowing smooth transitions between notes. One of the standout features of the Minimoog is its intuitive and straightforward layout, with dedicated knobs for each parameter, making sound design and performance adjustments quick and easy.
The Minimoog also includes a built-in low-frequency oscillator (LFO) for modulation, capable of generating vibrato and other effects. Its monophonic keyboard is non-velocity sensitive but provides a smooth playing experience.