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Average Price: $9,500

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$500

$1501+

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High-end

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Description

Introducing the Moog Memorymoog, a true gem in the world of synths. This marvel is the final synth to roll off the production line of the original Moog company in 1982, before they closed doors. The Memorymoog uniquely combines a 100 patch memory slot system with a six-voice polyphony, offering an unparalleled polysynth experience with the distinct triple VCO Moog flavor. Available in two models, the basic and the Plus, the latter is especially sought after for its rudimentary MIDI implementation. However, it's common to find both models retrofitted with updated MIDI setups, enhanced oscillator stability, and more, bringing a modern touch to this classic instrument.

Key Features:

  • Six-voice polyphony for rich and layered soundscapes
  • Triple VCO for that distinctive Moog sound
  • 100 patch memory slots for extensive sound customization
  • Available in two models: basic and Plus with MIDI implementation
  • Commonly retrofitted with improved MIDI setups and oscillator stability
  • Produced by the original Moog company, adding to its vintage value.

Product specs

Brand Moog
Model Memorymoog
Finish Wood
Year 1982 - 1985
Made In United States
Categories Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital Analog
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Number of Keys 61 Keys
Polyphony 6 Voices

FAQs

Is the Moog Memorymoog suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Moog Memorymoog is highly regarded for live performances due to its robust build, full-size keys, and rich analog sound. Its polyphony of 6 voices allows for complex and layered soundscapes, making it a favorite among live musicians.

How does the Moog Memorymoog's polyphony compare to other synthesizers?

The Moog Memorymoog offers 6-voice polyphony, which is substantial for an analog synthesizer from its era. This allows users to play chords and complex sequences, distinguishing it from monophonic synths like the Minimoog.

What kind of sound can I expect from the Moog Memorymoog?

The Moog Memorymoog is known for its rich, warm, and powerful analog sound. It excels in creating lush pads, thick basses, and soaring leads, making it versatile for various music genres.

Does the Moog Memorymoog have MIDI capabilities?

Yes, the Moog Memorymoog includes MIDI Input, Output, and Through, allowing it to integrate with modern digital setups for enhanced control and sequencing.

What are the key features of the Moog Memorymoog's sound engine?

The Moog Memorymoog features a robust analog sound engine with three oscillators per voice, offering a wide range of sonic possibilities. Its comprehensive modulation options and signature Moog filters contribute to its legendary sound.

SynthMania

SynthMania

''Via Marconi'' - '80s Italo with Memorymoog

Video thumbnail for ''Via Marconi'' - '80s Italo with Memorymoog by SynthMania

''Via Marconi'' - '80s Italo with Memorymoog

SynthMania

SynthMania

Video thumbnail for The Vintage Memorymoog In Action by Doctor Mix

The Vintage Memorymoog In Action

Doctor Mix

Doctor Mix

Video thumbnail for Moog Memorymoog - beauty by SynthMania

Moog Memorymoog - beauty

SynthMania

SynthMania

Video thumbnail for Moog Memorymoog Vintage Analog Synthesizer Overview by Perfect Circuit

Moog Memorymoog Vintage Analog Synthesizer Overview

Perfect Circuit

Perfect Circuit

Video thumbnail for MOOG MEMORYMOOG | Presets, Sounds & Patches 【SYNTH DEMO】 by synth4ever

MOOG MEMORYMOOG | Presets, Sounds & Patches 【SYNTH DEMO】

synth4ever

synth4ever

Video thumbnail for MemoryMoog | Fat Fragile Fabulous Vintage Analog by Espen Kraft

MemoryMoog | Fat Fragile Fabulous Vintage Analog

Espen Kraft

Espen Kraft

Video thumbnail for Moog Memorymoog - Rosen Sound Demo by Rosen Sound

Moog Memorymoog - Rosen Sound Demo

Rosen Sound

Rosen Sound

Video thumbnail for Moog MemoryMoog: Is It Worth It? by Alamo Music Sound Lab

Moog MemoryMoog: Is It Worth It?

Alamo Music Sound Lab

Alamo Music Sound Lab

Video thumbnail for The Venerable Moog Memorymoog -  Inspiration for the Moog Muse? by Vintage Synthesizer Solutions

The Venerable Moog Memorymoog - Inspiration for the Moog Muse?

Vintage Synthesizer Solutions

Vintage Synthesizer Solutions

Video thumbnail for Clash of The Titans: Roland Jupiter-8 vs. Moog MemoryMoog by Alamo Music Sound Lab

Clash of The Titans: Roland Jupiter-8 vs. Moog MemoryMoog

Alamo Music Sound Lab

Alamo Music Sound Lab

Reviews

PROS

  • Incredible versatility in sound and functionality

  • Distinct, raw Moog sound that stands out

  • Capable of producing timeless vintage tones with clarity and character

  • Exceptional musicality; elevates performances and recordings

  • Can serve as a highly effective main synth for sessions

  • Durable; proven to withstand heavy touring

  • Offers unique collectible value due to rare components

CONS

  • Maintenance can be very expensive

  • Contains rare, no longer manufactured chips, posing a risk of eventual failure

  • May be considered more of a collector's item than a necessity for modern musicians

  • Without LAMM (Lintronics Advanced Memorymoog Modification), reliability is questionable

Owner Insights

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

Build quality

  • The Memorymoog is considered the most fragile mass-produced polysynth, compared to the OB-Xa, suggesting it feels like a prototype in terms of durability.

    Source
  • The Memorymoog has a peculiar mix of premium components but suffers from sloppy construction, evidenced by messy handwritten serial numbers.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Memorymoog lacks split/dual mode, limiting its versatility compared to the Jupiter-8, which is noted for its intuitive design and modern functionality.

    Source
  • The unison mode produces a massive sound with its 18 VCOs, while the glide feature is appreciated by users.

    Source
  • The arpeggiator is considered subpar by some users, though the auto-tune function is found to work decently.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners find the Jupiter-8 to be a better all-around synth, describing the Memorymoog as more of a "character piece" suitable for someone with multiple synths.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Despite high used prices for the Memorymoog, some buyers prefer the new Moog One for its additional features and less nostalgic appeal.

    Source

User experience

  • Real owners describe the Memorymoog as unreliable and challenging for daily use, while the Jupiter-8 is praised for its ease of use and reliability.

    Source
  • Owners describe it as vibrating like an idling lawn mower, indicating an unusual mechanical characteristic.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Its sound design capabilities are highly valued for film trailers, making it more suited for specialized applications rather than general use.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Moog Memorymoog

soundonsound.com

The Moog Memorymoog garners admiration for its robust, powerful analog sound, reminiscent of Moog's early modular synths. Yet, it’s marred by notorious reliability issues, especially in tuning, making it a gamble for musicians. While it offers a rich variety of sounds and a unique VCF, its modulation capabilities fall short compared to modern synths. The Memorymoog Plus version adds only basic MIDI and a sequencer, which doesn’t justify its high second-hand market price, driven by collector demand and its rarity. Consider alternatives unless you're committed to its iconic sound and ready for potential maintenance woes.

Moog Memorymoog - TOP vintage poly-synth with 18 VCOs - GreatSynthesizers

greatsynthesizers.com

The Moog Memorymoog is hailed as a top vintage synth, celebrated for its unique, expressive sound and 18 lively VCOs. Its allure lies in its rich tonal character, flexible modulation, and performance features that appeal to sound designers and performers alike. However, it comes with quirks: it’s notoriously unreliable, with tuning inconsistencies, sluggish switches, and a noisy fan. The System Controller adds cumbersome complexity, and its aged hardware may require costly maintenance. Yet, its vibrant, warm sound is unparalleled, making it a prized, albeit risky, investment for those captivated by its vintage charm.

positive

Moog Memorymoog (EMM Feb 83)

muzines.co.uk

The Moog Memorymoog impresses with its advanced polyphonic capabilities, featuring six voices each with three oscillators, and a robust modulation section that delights with its versatility. Its standout feature, the System Controller, offers expansive programmability through a Z80 microprocessor, making it a forward-thinking choice for its time. However, its lack of touch sensitivity, mono output, and some inaccuracies in timing marks and filter modulation are notable drawbacks. The keyboard's 'spongy' feel and the weighty build could be off-putting for some. Though not without flaws, the Memorymoog remains a potent synthesizer for those seeking rich, modulated soundscapes.

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 10 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Deadmau5 uses Moog Memorymoog

Deadmau5

Music Producer

BSOD

...
Verified via Photo

"Snagged a minted memorymoog, still in the original box! Came with a stupid cat too." -Joel

See how Johnny Marr uses Moog Memorymoog

Johnny Marr

Singer, Guitarist

Modest Mouse

...
Verified via YouTube

At 6:02 in this video, we can see Johnny's Memorymoog.

See how Aphex Twin uses Moog Memorymoog

Aphex Twin

Music Producer

Universal Indicator

...
Verified via SoundCloud

In the description of this SoundCloud post: https://soundcloud.com/user18081971/24-alias-mgroove?si=6b63ac39af444dba93ade380851f28e4&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing the memory moog is listed among other gear used to create the track.

'recorded around 1993-4 ems synthi'a' [1st gen].[procsessing] Yamaha tx16w. memorymoog. dx7 e! studiomaster star system mixer. DEP5.'

See how Prince uses Moog Memorymoog

Prince

Singer, Guitarist

Prince

...
Verified via YouTube

Dr. Fink was auctioning off this MemoryMoog and he said he played it on the Purple Rain Tour.

See how J Mascis uses Moog Memorymoog

J Mascis

Singer, Guitarist

Dinosaur Jr

...
Verified via reverb.com

"You can also find a couple of odds and ends peppered into J’s official shop, like the Danelectro Baby Electric Sitar that he used on tour with Dino and a Moog MemoryMoog used on several J Mascis + The Fog albums while J was 'going through [his] synth period.'"

See how Martin L. Gore uses Moog Memorymoog

Martin L. Gore

Singer, Guitarist

Depeche Mode

...
Verified via Facebook

Martin pictured using the Memorymoog in the studio. In the caption he's quoted as saying:

"Technology has just changed so much... It was a feat just to get a drum machine just to run in time with a sequencer back when we started. Now you've almost got endless possibilities."

See how Boys Noize uses Moog Memorymoog

Boys Noize

Music Producer

Handbraekes

...
Verified via Photo

can be seen in this post from November 3, 2016

See how The Chemical Brothers uses Moog Memorymoog

The Chemical Brothers

Music Producer

The Chemical Brothers

...
Verified via Kreativsound

In an interview featured on Kreativ Sound, Tom Rowlands of The Chemical Brothers discusses their quest for unique sounds in electronic music, mentioning the use of the Moog Memorymoog in their studio setup.

See how Jean Michel Jarre uses Moog Memorymoog

Jean Michel Jarre

Keyboardist, Music Producer

The Dustbins

...
Verified via YouTube

JMJ can be seen Very often using the Memorymoog as main keyboard live and also in this video

See how The Weeknd uses Moog Memorymoog

The Weeknd

Singer, Keyboardist

Bulleez n Nerdz

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo shared by The Weeknd in 2024, he displays a synth rack, which includes a Moog Memorymoog and a Prophet-10.

See how Nils Frahm uses Moog Memorymoog

Nils Frahm

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video "In the Studio with Nils Frahm" by The Vinyl Factory, Nils Frahm is seen using the Moog Memorymoog synthesizer.

See how Danny Carey uses Moog Memorymoog

Danny Carey

Drummer, Music Producer

Tool

...
Verified via Dannycarey

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 Memorymoog, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

Show yours
hxs28

hxs28

Gear IQ 359

resonancestudios

resonancestudios

Gear IQ 214

hxs28

hxs28

Gear IQ 359

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