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Description

The Moog Polymoog Synthesizer 203a is a symphony of sonic innovation, bridging the gap between vintage charm and modern functionality. This iconic synthesizer, first introduced in the late 1970s, continues to captivate musicians with its polyphonic capabilities, allowing for the simultaneous playing of multiple notes, a distinctive feature in Moog's history. Designed for the adventurous musician, the Polymoog 203a is equipped with 71 full-sized keys, offering a vast canvas for creativity and expression.

This synthesizer is renowned for its unique sound architecture, featuring a plethora of preset sounds that range from lush strings to ethereal pads. The 203a is not just about presets; it provides a robust array of controls for real-time sound manipulation, including a resonant filter and modulation options. The inclusion of a built-in equalizer gives users the ability to fine-tune their sound to perfection, making it a versatile tool for both studio and live performances.

Whether you're a vintage synth enthusiast or a modern music producer, the Polymoog Synthesizer 203a offers a timeless quality that transcends musical genres. Its distinctive resonant filter and modulation capabilities provide endless possibilities for sound design, making it a staple in the arsenal of any serious musician.

Key Features:

  • 71 full-sized keys for expansive playability
  • Polyphonic synthesis for complex sound creation
  • Built-in resonant filter for unique audio shaping
  • Extensive modulation controls for dynamic sound manipulation
  • Preset sounds ranging from strings to pads
  • Integrated equalizer for precise sound customization
  • Ideal for both studio sessions and live performances

Product specs

Brand Moog
Model Polymoog
Finish Black
Year 1975 - 1978
Made In United States
Categories Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital Analog
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
Number of Keys 80 Keys
Polyphony 71 Voices

FAQs

What type of synthesis does the Moog Polymoog Synthesizer 203a use?

The Moog Polymoog Synthesizer 203a utilizes analog synthesis, which is known for its warm and rich sound quality that is highly sought after by musicians and producers.

How many keys does the Moog Polymoog Synthesizer 203a have?

The Moog Polymoog Synthesizer 203a features a full-size keyboard with 80 keys, providing an extensive range for complex performances and compositions.

Is the Moog Polymoog Synthesizer 203a polyphonic or monophonic?

The Moog Polymoog Synthesizer 203a is polyphonic, capable of playing up to 71 voices simultaneously, making it suitable for creating rich, layered sounds.

What are the standout features of the Moog Polymoog Synthesizer 203a?

The Moog Polymoog Synthesizer 203a is notable for its full-size 80-key keyboard, 71-voice polyphony, and classic analog sound, which are ideal for both live performances and studio recordings.

Does the Moog Polymoog Synthesizer 203a have any preset sounds?

Yes, the Polymoog Synthesizer 203a includes a variety of preset sounds, allowing users to quickly access classic Moog tones and customize them further for unique soundscapes.

shookmusic

shookmusic

Polymoog 203A Synthesizer: A Sonic Exploration

Video thumbnail for Polymoog 203A Synthesizer:  A Sonic Exploration by shookmusic

Polymoog 203A Synthesizer: A Sonic Exploration

shookmusic

shookmusic

Video thumbnail for MOOG POLYMOOG KEYBOARD SYNTHESIZER @ RAINBOWMUSICOMAHA RAINBOW RECORDING STUDIOS NE. by rainbow music omaha

MOOG POLYMOOG KEYBOARD SYNTHESIZER @ RAINBOWMUSICOMAHA RAINBOW RECORDING STUDIOS NE.

rainbow music omaha

rainbow music omaha

Video thumbnail for Moog Polymoog vs Roland SH-201 by Krzysztof Przebinda

Moog Polymoog vs Roland SH-201

Krzysztof Przebinda

Krzysztof Przebinda

Video thumbnail for Moog Polymoog 203a 1975-1978 Synthesizer w/ Controller & Manual by eclecticsoundspdx

Moog Polymoog 203a 1975-1978 Synthesizer w/ Controller & Manual

eclecticsoundspdx

eclecticsoundspdx

Video thumbnail for Moog Polymoog synth chat with Matt at Effort Studios by Take the Fear out the Gear

Moog Polymoog synth chat with Matt at Effort Studios

Take the Fear out the Gear

Take the Fear out the Gear

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique sound and layout unmatched by other synths

  • Offers the classic Moog Ladder filter plus additional multimode filters

  • Individual volume levels and outputs for extensive sound mixing

  • Allows for full polyphony across the keyboard

  • Features early velocity sensitivity for expressive playing

  • Preset and manual modes for flexible sound shaping

  • Signal blending options offer creative sound routing possibilities

  • 71-note, fully polyphonic capabilities

  • Iconic sounds used by famous artists like Gary Numan

  • Well-designed for restoration and long-term use

CONS

  • Not suitable for touring due to its size and complexity

  • Lacks modulation for the Resonators section, limiting filter movement

  • Some models have reduced editing capabilities compared to others

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Moog Polymoog Synthesizer 203a.

Setup and maintenance

  • Repairing the Polymoog often exceeds initial estimates; experienced Moog technicians are essential due to complex repairs and potential for high maintenance costs.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A non-working Polymoog 203a typically sells around $2500, while functional models range from $4000 to $5000, indicating significant repair value discrepancies.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Polymoog is often likened to an elaborate electric piano, lacking the investment potential of more reliable synth models.

    Source
  • The Polymoog outperforms the Memorymoog in sound clarity, avoiding the "pillow" effect associated with Curtis chips.

    Source
  • The Yamaha CS-80 surpasses both the Polymoog and Jupiter-8 in sound power and expressiveness, with the Polymoog previously leading in orchestral strings.

    Source

User experience

  • It's noted that the Polymoog has a reputation for being unreliable, with some describing it as a "lemon" in terms of dependability.

    Source
  • The Polymoog's analog strings are praised for their uniqueness, with notable use by artists like Benny Andersson and Tony Banks for orchestral strings.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Only Preset 9 on the 203A allows full control access, highlighting its use limitations without additional effects processing.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 8 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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2 star
1 star
mach4
mach4

1256

Moog's first significant foray into polyphony, as oft-maligned as it is admired, still sought after.

Largely designed by Dave Luce, a Moog Music employee, the Polymoog is a 71-note, fully polyphonic (divide-down) synthesiser, and was produced in two distinctly different models - the 203a and the 208a. The 203a allowed each of the 8 presets to be fully edited and is identifiable by its front panel which is well-stocked with controls. The Polymoog Keyboard (the 208a pictured here) increases the number of presets to 14 but reduces the amount of editing available. Although potentially limited, it was no less popular (as Gary Numan's most famous track will attest to!)

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Emperor Machine (Andy Meecham) uses Moog Polymoog Synthesizer 203a

Emperor Machine (Andy Meecham)

...
Verified via YouTube

In a studio tour featured on MusicRadar Tech's YouTube channel, Andy Meecham of Emperor Machine showcases his use of the Moog Polymoog synthesizer.

See how Patrizio Fariselli uses Moog Polymoog Synthesizer 203a

Patrizio Fariselli

Keyboardist

Area - International POPular Group

...
Verified via Discogs

Mentioned in the liner notes for 1978 Gli dei se ne vanno, gli arrabbiati restano! as having been used on "Il Bandito del Deserto" and " Acrostico In Memoria Di Laio".

See how Marek Bilinski uses Moog Polymoog Synthesizer 203a

Marek Bilinski

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via Photo

The Polymoog, along with Minimoog and Micromoog was extensively used during recording sessions of Biliński's 1983 debut album "Garden Of The King Of Dawn". The album is also widely considered as the first electronic record released in Poland.

T

Tuomas Seppälä

Composer

Amberian Dawn

...
Verified via Photo

Composer Tuomas Seppälä uses a Moog Polymoog Synthesizer 203a, as evidenced by an Instagram post on his account, where he shared a photo of the instrument with the caption: "🥳🥳 welcome to new home, Moog Polymoog!! Hopefully it will work. It’s 45-50 years old."

See how Lucio Fabbri uses Moog Polymoog Synthesizer 203a

Lucio Fabbri

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

Lucio Fabbri can be seen here with a Moog Polymoog below his Minimoog here in this 1980 performance. The Polymoog can be seen clearly on top of his Yamaha CP piano at 0:55 and can be heard at 2:34 in the video. The song 'Celebration' or 'É Festa' does not feature the Moog Polymoog because it is a song on the album 'Storia di un minuto' from 1972 which was 3 years before the Polymoog was released but on this live performance it is used it to add some polyphonic synth string/brass textures. Thank You very much to user Emiliano_Pedruzzi for the help in this submission by specifying that this is in fact Lucio Fabbri. Lucio Fabbri is replacing Flavio Premoli on this performance from 1980

See how Serge Locat uses Moog Polymoog Synthesizer 203a

Serge Locat

Keyboardist

Harmonium

...
Verified via YouTube

The video "Harmonium in California" (1977) shows Serge Locat at 19:33 playing a solo on a Toys 'R' Us toy piano, followed by a solo on a Roland SH-5. The SH-5 is standing on top of a Polymoog.

See how Jeffrey Fisher uses Moog Polymoog Synthesizer 203a

Jeffrey Fisher

Keyboardist, Composer

Harmonium

...
Verified via YouTube

The video "Harmonium in California" (1977) shows Jeffrey Fisher at 19:33 playing a solo on a Toys 'R' Us toy piano, followed by a solo on a Roland SH-5. The SH-5 is standing on top of a Polymoog.

See how Dudley Simpson uses Moog Polymoog Synthesizer 203a

Dudley Simpson

Composer

...
Verified via Gearspaceforum

Mark Ayres confirmed on Gearspace that Dudley Simpson used the Moog Polymoog Synthesizer 203a for the series "Blake 7."

As he quoted and answered to cherry audio thread about what synths Dudley used.

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 Polymoog Synthesizer 203a, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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