Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $2,000

High-end/Boutique

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Step into the past with the legendary Moog Liberation, a synthesizer that brings the classic analog sounds of the '80s right to your fingertips. As one of the first commercially available keytars, the Moog Liberation is a unique blend of a synth and a performance instrument, designed for musicians who want to break free from the confines of traditional keyboard stands. Featuring 44 keys for an expansive range and a dual-oscillator system, this synth allows for a dynamic sound palette, perfect for on-stage performances or studio experimentation.

The Moog Liberation is equipped with a ribbon controller and a modulation wheel right on the neck, giving you real-time control over pitch and modulation effects. Its distinctive sound is powered by classic Moog circuitry, providing that rich, fat analog warmth that has become a hallmark of the Moog brand. Additionally, the Liberation comes with a shoulder strap for comfortable playability, enabling musicians to move freely and engage with their audience in a more interactive way.

Whether you're a synth enthusiast or a performer looking to add a unique instrument to your collection, the Moog Liberation offers a blend of vintage charm and expressive capability that stands out in any musical setting.

Key Features:

  • 44-key keyboard with dual-oscillator analog design
  • Built-in ribbon controller and modulation wheel on the neck
  • Classic Moog analog circuitry for rich, warm tones
  • Shoulder strap for easy mobility during performances
  • Suitable for both stage and studio use

Product specs

Brand Moog
Model Liberation
Finish Black
Year 1980 - 1981
Made In United States
Categories Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital Analog
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
Number of Keys 44 Keys
Polyphony 11 Voices

FAQs

What type of synthesis does the Moog Liberation use?

The Moog Liberation is an analog synthesizer, known for its warm, rich sounds typical of classic Moog instruments.

How many keys does the Moog Liberation have, and what is the action type?

The Moog Liberation features 44 full-size keys with a synth-action keyboard, offering a responsive and expressive playing experience.

Is the Moog Liberation suitable for polyphonic playing?

Yes, the Moog Liberation offers 11-voice polyphony, allowing for complex chords and layered sounds.

What are the standout features of the Moog Liberation's sound engine?

The Moog Liberation is equipped with classic analog oscillators and filters, delivering the iconic Moog sound with rich harmonics and dynamic modulation capabilities.

Can the Moog Liberation be used as a keytar?

Yes, the Moog Liberation is designed as a keytar, allowing performers to play it like a guitar, offering greater stage mobility and performance versatility.

epservice

epservice

Moog Liberation

Video thumbnail for Moog Liberation by epservice

Moog Liberation

epservice

epservice

Video thumbnail for The Moog Liberation is POLYPHONIC! by moogfoundation

The Moog Liberation is POLYPHONIC!

moogfoundation

moogfoundation

Video thumbnail for The Moog Liberation has VINTAGE ANALOG TONE! by moogfoundation

The Moog Liberation has VINTAGE ANALOG TONE!

moogfoundation

moogfoundation

Video thumbnail for Moog Liberation Sold (by Synthpro) by synthpro

Moog Liberation Sold (by Synthpro)

synthpro

synthpro

Video thumbnail for Moog Liberation (Demo 1) by MrKeytarist

Moog Liberation (Demo 1)

MrKeytarist

MrKeytarist

Video thumbnail for Moog Liberation by Siete7Black

Moog Liberation

Siete7Black

Siete7Black

Video thumbnail for Bob Moog Foundation Liberation Raffle:  Mary Frances plays it! by moogfoundation

Bob Moog Foundation Liberation Raffle: Mary Frances plays it!

moogfoundation

moogfoundation

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Moog Liberation.

Build quality

  • The Moog Liberation can weigh approximately 15 pounds, challenging its portability despite marketing claims. The keytar section lacks all electronic components, relying on a 2x rack unit power supply.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The instrument may suffer from "black foam of death," requiring complete disassembly and cleaning. Aftertouch issues may arise if the light-sensitive resistor is incorrectly installed.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Liberation uses a 25-foot cable to connect and power the synth, with the left-hand controls requiring adaptation to play in keytar position.

    Source
  • The Casio AZ-1 is noted as the only keytar with true aftertouch, providing a distinct playing experience compared to other keytars.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Liberation is noted as the first commercially produced keytar, setting a precedent for form factor while sparking discussions about weight compared to modern alternatives.

    Source
  • The Moog Liberation is described as producing sounds between a Moog Rogue and Prodigy, offering a unique tonal range with early aftertouch and left-hand controls.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners frequently mention back pain associated with its weight, leading many to play the Liberation on a stand rather than as a keytar.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • A suggested setup involves using a Moog Slim Phatty rack with a Roland AX keytar for mobility while maintaining a Moog sound quality.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Moog Liberations can be found on specialized B/S/T boards for $900-$1000, though some require repairs. A rare white model was acquired for $600, indicating potential deals.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners have created custom MIDI controllers based on the Moog Liberation design, integrating Moog's Lil Phatty module for a personalized setup.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Moog Liberation | Vintage Synth Explorer

vintagesynth.com

The Moog Liberation is a unique keytar-style synthesizer that appeals to adventurous performers seeking Moog's iconic sound in a portable format. While it offers an array of features like dual oscillators and a ribbon controller for expressive play, its simplicity might not satisfy those looking for complex synthesis capabilities. The Liberation has a distinctive monophonic sound and a price point that's relatively affordable by Moog standards. However, those who prioritize versatility might find more value in Moog's Prodigy. Ultimately, it's a niche choice for musicians drawn to its retro aesthetic and specific sonic character.

4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how The Juan Maclean uses Moog Liberation

The Juan Maclean

Guitarist

Six Finger Satellite

...
Verified via Attack Magazine

He says, "J Ryan, 6FS’s lead singer, would often come on stage with a moustache, red leather jacket with fringe and matching chaps, a Moog Liberation strapped on. "

See how Apollo 440 uses Moog Liberation

Apollo 440

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the music video for "(Don't Fear) The Reaper" by Apollo 440, at the 1:24 mark, a Moog Liberation synthesizer is prominently featured, showcasing its distinctive sound.

See how Jim Gilmour uses Moog Liberation

Jim Gilmour

Singer, Keyboardist

Saga

...
Verified via YouTube

During this live version of "Humble Stance", Gilmour plays a Moog Liberation.

See how Tom Coster uses Moog Liberation

Tom Coster

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Santana

...
Verified via Concord

According to Tom Coster's artist profile on Concord, he is described as making extensive use of the Moog Liberation synthesizer for his album "Ivory Expeditions."

See how Brandon Coleman uses Moog Liberation

Brandon Coleman

Keyboardist, Music Producer

West Coast Get Down

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cgSlFFBUOSI Brandon Coleman can be seen using the Liberation all over.

See how Holly Knight uses Moog Liberation

Holly Knight

Singer, Keyboardist

...
Verified via Photo

Holly Knight is confirmed to use a Moog Liberation, as evidenced by an Instagram post from her account, hollyknightvision. In the post, she shares a vintage photo from the 1980s, stating: "Yes, this is me up at Aucoin Management... And yes, that’s me playing a ‘keytar,’ Something you only saw back then." This directly identifies the instrument as a Moog Liberation. The photo was shared on January 19, 2023.

See how Curtis “Fitz” Williams uses Moog Liberation

Curtis “Fitz” Williams

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Kool & the Gang

...
Verified via Photo

In the provided image, Curtis “Fitz” Williams is seen playing a Moog Liberation.

See how Headnodic uses Moog Liberation

Headnodic

Bassist, Music Producer

The Mighty Underdogs

...
Verified via Photo

Featured in this March 15, 2015 Instagram post.

I gotta make more space for the baby's room. So I'm selling my Moog Liberation (Keytar): comes with case, strap, cable & power supply. $750- (priced to move)... DM me with any ?s (...) Recently refurbished and cleaned at @waveformless

It was previously used for The Iguana, particularly on "Galactic Expansion", as is visible in this April 11, 2020 Instagram teaser for the re-release.

Galactic Expansion from the album.. The Iguana. ***now available on vinyl, cd and streaming on all that stuff. Follow me on Spotify for more goodies to come. (Link in bio)

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Moog Liberation, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Fender Rhodes Mark II Stage Piano 73
Fender Rhodes Mark II Stage Piano 73 Vintage & Electric Pianos
2
Danelectro '56 Baritone
Danelectro '56 Baritone Extended Range Guitars
1
Maplin 5600S
Maplin 5600S Synthesizers
1
Lag LeKey
Lag LeKey MIDI Keyboard Controllers
1
Williams Keytar V2
1
Theremin
Theremin Synthesizers
1
Mellotron MkII
Mellotron MkII Synthesizers
1
Yamaha CS-80
Yamaha CS-80 Synthesizers
1

Community setups

Show yours
teodor_pop

teodor_pop

Gear IQ 135

More Moog Synthesizers

Moog Grandmother

$999.00 - $1,084.00

# 4

Rank

Deadmau5 Dominic Fike Martin Garrix
52 artists using
Moog Subsequent 37

$1,470.85 - $1,899.00

# 14

Rank

Neil Halstead Skrillex Charlie Puth
68 artists using
Moog Matriarch

$1,709.10 - $1,944.00

# 24

Rank

Thom Yorke Fred again.. Kurt Vile
39 artists using
Moog Minimoog Model D

$3,999.00 - $4,999.00

# 28

Rank

Mac DeMarco Kevin Parker Paul McCartney
333 artists using
Moog Theremini

$348.50 - $399.00

# 68

Rank

JPEGMAFIA Owl City Miguel Briseño
17 artists using
Moog Minimoog

$3,999.00 - $6,500.00

 
Brian D'Addario Fito Páez John Osborne
12 artists using
Moog Muse

$3,050.00 - $3,499.00

 
The Real Mike Dean Matt Johnson
2 artists using

Accessories & Related Items

Similar

Gear Guides