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Description

The Moog Sonic Six is a vintage synthesizer that stands out with its unique design and versatile sound capabilities, making it a cherished piece for both collectors and musicians. Originally developed in the early 1970s, this synthesizer features a distinctive portable form factor, complete with a built-in speaker and a suitcase-style design, allowing for easy transport and setup. The Sonic Six is renowned for its dual oscillator architecture, enabling a rich and varied sonic palette that includes everything from deep basses to ethereal leads.

A hallmark of this synthesizer is its ring modulator, which opens the door to a world of complex textures and modulations, perfect for experimental music and sound design. The Moog Sonic Six also incorporates a noise generator and a dual envelope generator, providing a wide range of sound-shaping possibilities. Its intuitive interface and tactile knobs make it a joy to tweak and explore, catering to both seasoned synth enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Key Features:

  • Dual oscillators for a wide range of sound possibilities
  • Built-in ring modulator for complex sound textures
  • Integrated speaker and suitcase-style portability
  • Noise generator and dual envelope generator for enhanced sound sculpting
  • Intuitive control layout for hands-on sound manipulation
  • Vintage Moog sound with a unique character

Product specs

Brand Moog
Model Sonic Six
Finish Blue
Year 1972 - 1979
Made In United States
Categories Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital Analog
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
Number of Keys 49 Keys
Polyphony 2 Voices

FAQs

Is the Moog Sonic Six a polyphonic synthesizer?

The Moog Sonic Six is a duophonic synthesizer, meaning it can play two notes simultaneously. This allows for simple chord structures or layered sounds.

What kind of sound can I expect from the Moog Sonic Six?

The Moog Sonic Six offers classic analog warmth with a rich, full sound. It is known for its versatile oscillators and unique filter, which can produce anything from deep basses to soaring leads.

How many keys does the Moog Sonic Six have?

The Moog Sonic Six features a 49-key full-size keyboard with synth action, providing a comfortable playing experience for both beginners and experienced musicians.

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

The Moog Sonic Six is equipped with two oscillators, a noise generator, and a unique filter section, offering a wide range of sound design possibilities. Its modulation capabilities and external input options further enhance its sonic versatility.

Is the Moog Sonic Six suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Moog Sonic Six is designed with portability in mind, featuring a suitcase-style enclosure. Its intuitive controls and robust build make it a reliable choice for live performances.

HAINBACH

HAINBACH

The Stunning Synth That Moog Did Not Want

Video thumbnail for The Stunning Synth That Moog Did Not Want by HAINBACH

The Stunning Synth That Moog Did Not Want

HAINBACH

HAINBACH

Video thumbnail for 1972 Moog Sonic Six Analog Synthesizer Demo by peahix

1972 Moog Sonic Six Analog Synthesizer Demo

peahix

peahix

Video thumbnail for The Moog Sonic Six (high quality) by AutomaticGainsay

The Moog Sonic Six (high quality)

AutomaticGainsay

AutomaticGainsay

Video thumbnail for Moog Sonic Six - first look by SynthMania

Moog Sonic Six - first look

SynthMania

SynthMania

Video thumbnail for MOOG vintage analog Sonic Six 6 demonstration by OFR

MOOG vintage analog Sonic Six 6 demonstration

OFR

OFR

Video thumbnail for Moog Sonic Six - How it works and how it doesn't! by RetroLinear

Moog Sonic Six - How it works and how it doesn't!

RetroLinear

RetroLinear

Reviews

PROS

  • Duophonic capabilities offer complex sound arrangements

  • Features 2 oscillators and 2 LFOs for diverse sound modulation

  • Includes unique cross and ring modulation options

  • Historical piece with a unique development backstory

  • Offers a distinctive filtered sound with a mix-in for dry oscillators

  • Portable design inspired by an early Minimoog concept

  • Versatile in creating ambient, ethereal soundscapes

  • Same stable oscillators as later Model Ds

  • Rare and recognized for its quality in modern times

  • Exceptional for drones and complex loops with its dual LFO

CONS

  • Limited interfacing options for modern standards

  • CV and Gate only, lacking advanced connectivity features

  • Dual LFOs cannot be synced, limiting some sound design

  • Limited usefulness for certain genres like techno and electro

  • Considered bulky, affecting portability and stage use

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

  • The Moog Sonic Six includes a built-in speaker and a suitcase format, making it an all-in-one portable unit ideal for educational purposes.

    Source
  • The Sonic Six offers a unique modulation section and an internal overdrive layer, contributing to its distinctive, old-school robotic sound.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Users have experienced issues with the power supply and pitch wheel, but these can be addressed with repairs such as 3D printing a new pitch wheel.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The quirky architecture requires a deep understanding of synthesis to troubleshoot sound issues, demonstrating its educational value for learning signal paths.

    Source
  • The Sonic Six's duophonic mode is praised for its capability to replicate the iconic sound of "Everything in its Right Place."

    Source

User experience

  • Owners find the Sonic Six fun to play but note that its one-knob-per-function layout can still be unintuitive without knowledge of synthesis basics.

    Source
  • Many users appreciate the Sonic Six for its aesthetic appeal, particularly its blue-toned control panel, which echoes other Moog designs.

    Source
  • The synth's character is noted for being musical without overt effort, providing a distinctive sound palette that's appreciated by vintage synth enthusiasts.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Sonic Six is compared to other vintage synths like the Kijimi and Prophet 5 for its sonic character, highlighting its unique place in synthesizer history.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Moog Sonic 6

soundonsound.com

The Moog Sonic Six is a quirky gem in synthesizer history, boasting unique features like dual programmable LFOs and a rich duophonic capability. Its robust architecture allows for diverse sound creation, making it a standout for experimental musicians. While its quirky design may put off some, and its contour generator is notably limited, it remains a stable and reliable vintage synth, defying claims of tuning issues. Ideal for those who appreciate its historical context and versatile soundscape, the Sonic Six is a fascinating piece of synth evolution.

positive

Moog Sonic Six - the Eugene Zumchak synthesizer - GreatSynthesizers

greatsynthesizers.com

The Moog Sonic Six is a unique beast, earning its stripes as an "analog monster" with a rich, aggressive sound that's distinct from typical Moog offerings. Its rare ring modulator, dual signal mixers, and modulation capabilities deliver a sonic palette that excites experimental musicians. However, the single envelope limits its lead capabilities, and its unconventional layout may frustrate those seeking straightforward playability. Despite these quirks, the Sonic Six's raw power and collectability make it an intriguing choice for those chasing unique, vintage tones. It’s not a classic Moog, but it offers something uniquely compelling.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Martin Doherty uses Moog Sonic Six

Martin Doherty

Singer, Music Producer

The Twilight Sad

...
Verified via Soundonsound

'although another purchase, the blue-faced, suitcased Moog Sonic Six [a forerunner of the classic Minimoog] proved to be a far trickier synth for them to coax a sound out of. “You can get a sound out of it, but not a usable one,” Cook laughs. It’s mental. It’s so complicated.'. SOS Magazine, October 2015

See how Mark Mothersbaugh uses Moog Sonic Six

Mark Mothersbaugh

Singer, Guitarist

Devo

...
Verified via YouTube

Seen at 3:03. Mark used it for practicing in hotel rooms because of the Sonic Six's compact, all in one, luggage style design.

See how Masonna uses Moog Sonic Six

Masonna

Composer, Music Producer

Acid Eater

...
Verified via Photo

The Moog Sonic Six is listed on the Space Machine album 2 and can be seen in the album photos

See how Isaiah Ikey Owens uses Moog Sonic Six

Isaiah Ikey Owens

Keyboardist, Music Producer

The Mars Volta

...
Verified via Photo

Featured in this July 19, 2013 Instagram post.

See how Józef Skrzek uses Moog Sonic Six

Józef Skrzek

Singer, Bassist

SBB

...
Verified via YouTube

Skrzek used a MiniMoog Model D, PolyMoog 203A, MicroMoog, Moog Sonic Six, Hohner Clavinet D6, Fender Rhodes Mk. I Stage Piano, Davolisint, & SLM Concert Spectrum for SBB's late seventies studio, & live, recordings.

See how Assembler uses Moog Sonic Six

Assembler

Music Producer

AUDIO SPORTS

...
Verified via YouTube

can be seen at 4:10 in this video

See how Barış Manço uses Moog Sonic Six

Barış Manço

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

From what I heard in the clip, a Roland SH-2 was used in this song.

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 Sonic Six, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1
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1
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Roland RE-201 Space Echo Effects Processors
1
Hohner Clavinet D6
Hohner Clavinet D6 Vintage & Electric Pianos
1
Moog Memorymoog
Moog Memorymoog Synthesizers
1

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