Pricing and availability

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

Average Price: $8,900

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

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

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how survive uses Moog Memorymoog

survive

...
Verified via Impose Magazine

In the fourteenth photo from Impose Magazine's feature, Mark Donica of S U R V I V E is shown playing the Moog Memorymoog.

See how David Bryan uses Moog Memorymoog

David Bryan

Singer, Guitarist

Bon Jovi

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video "David Bryan Keyboard Lesson #1" by Petsitterincharlotte, David Bryan is shown using the Moog Memorymoog as part of his 1980s keyboard setup.

See how Alice Phoebe Lou uses Moog Memorymoog

Alice Phoebe Lou

Singer, Guitarist

Strongboi

...
Verified via Photo

Alice Phoebe Lou used a Moog Memorymoog for recording her 2017 EP, "Sola."

See how Yuksek uses Moog Memorymoog

Yuksek

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the "Yuksek Studio Tour With Future Music" video on YouTube, Yuksek is shown using the Moog Memorymoog in his studio setup.

See how Tim Rice-Oxley uses Moog Memorymoog

Tim Rice-Oxley

Keyboardist

Keane

...
Verified via YouTube

In Keane's YouTube video "Cause and Effect: The Journey Episode 1 – Tim," Tim Rice-Oxley is seen in his home studio using a Moog Memorymoog synthesizer amidst his collection of synths.

See how Toby Smith uses Moog Memorymoog

Toby Smith

Keyboardist, Composer

Jamiroquai

...
Verified via Jamiroquai

"At home, their analogue catalog includes two Moog sources, Sequential Circuits Prophet-T8 ("the supreme mother of synthesizers"), Memorymoog, ARP Odyssey and 2600, Roland SH-101 and SH-7, and a Minimoog, " that I didn't use much, because it was a mistake. "

See how BNYX uses Moog Memorymoog

BNYX

Rapper, Music Producer

Working on Dying

...
Verified via YouTube

In a session with Seddy Hendrinx, a Moog Memorymoog can be seen next to BNYX's Moog One, as documented in the YouTube video by ONB.

See how Ian Pooley uses Moog Memorymoog

Ian Pooley

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In a Tech Talk segment on Electronic Beats TV, Ian Pooley is shown using the Moog Memorymoog in his Berlin studio.

See how Mark Bell uses Moog Memorymoog

Mark Bell

Music Producer

LFO

...
Verified via Photo

The Memorymoog can be seen in the top right side of this photo of LFO in the studio.

See how Jean Michel Andrè Jarre uses Moog Memorymoog

Jean Michel Andrè Jarre

...
Verified via Free

Albums which use MOOG Memorymoog : • Rendez-vous > Second Rendez-vous / Second Rendez-vous

• Houston/Lyon

See how Emile Haynie uses Moog Memorymoog

Emile Haynie

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

Super easy to see in the right corner of the photo.

See how Graham Massey uses Moog Memorymoog

Graham Massey

Guitarist, Keyboardist

808 State

...
Verified via 808state

"We use the internal sequencer and arpeggiator on the Memory Moog, and the arpeggiator on the Jupiter 8 for coming up with lines too. They're run off the [TR-]909 click trigger."

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

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

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    gchiaren
    gchiaren

    Gear IQ 37552