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Description

Introducing the Moog Taurus I, a foot pedal-controlled analog synth that is a game-changer in the music world. With its 13 foot keys and a five-octave range, it's primarily used for bass work. Originally designed to complement the Apollo and Lyra keyboard synths in an ensemble set-up, the Taurus I has left its mark on the industry. This synth is the first version in the Taurus series, which later saw an unpopular Taurus II and a limited edition Taurus III. The Moog Taurus I, however, remains a classic favorite, offering a unique sound and playing experience that sets it apart from its successors.

Key Features:

  • Foot pedal-controlled analog synth
  • 13 foot keys
  • Five octave range
  • Primarily used for bass work
  • Part of the Taurus series
  • Produced from around 1974 - 1981
  • Originally designed to complement the Apollo and Lyra keyboard synths in an ensemble set-up

Product specs

Brand Moog
Model Taurus I
Finish Black
Year 1974 - 1981
Made In United States
Categories Analog Synths
Analog / Digital Analog
Number of Keys 13 Keys
Polyphony 1 Voice

FAQs

What type of sound is the Moog Taurus I best known for?

The Moog Taurus I is best known for its powerful and deep bass sounds, making it a favored choice for bass lines in various music genres, particularly progressive rock and electronic music.

How many keys does the Moog Taurus I have and what is its polyphony?

The Moog Taurus I features 13 foot-operated keys and is monophonic, meaning it can play one note at a time, which is ideal for creating strong, singular bass lines.

Is the Moog Taurus I suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Moog Taurus I is designed for live performances with its robust construction and intuitive foot pedal controls, allowing musicians to play bass lines hands-free while performing on other instruments.

What is the primary use of the Moog Taurus I in music production?

The primary use of the Moog Taurus I in music production is to deliver rich, analog bass sounds that can add depth and power to a musical arrangement, especially in genres like rock and electronic music.

Does the Moog Taurus I require any special maintenance due to its analog nature?

Like many vintage analog synthesizers, the Moog Taurus I may require periodic calibration and maintenance to ensure optimal performance, especially as components age. Regular care can help maintain its iconic sound quality.

RetroSound

RetroSound

Moog Taurus 3 vs. Taurus 1 bass pedal synthesizer sound battle

Video thumbnail for Moog Taurus 3 vs. Taurus 1 bass pedal synthesizer sound battle by RetroSound

Moog Taurus 3 vs. Taurus 1 bass pedal synthesizer sound battle

RetroSound

RetroSound

Video thumbnail for Moog Taurus 1 Bass pedals & Rickenbacker 4001V63 on a Genesis excerpt track Eleventh earl of mar by Bernard Nicoll

Moog Taurus 1 Bass pedals & Rickenbacker 4001V63 on a Genesis excerpt track Eleventh earl of mar

Bernard Nicoll

Bernard Nicoll

Video thumbnail for Moog Taurus pedal synthesizer function demonstration by Granville Guitars

Moog Taurus pedal synthesizer function demonstration

Granville Guitars

Granville Guitars

Video thumbnail for Moog Taurus 1 Bass pedals & Rickenbacker 4003 Bass Genesis After Glow by Bernard Nicoll

Moog Taurus 1 Bass pedals & Rickenbacker 4003 Bass Genesis After Glow

Bernard Nicoll

Bernard Nicoll

Video thumbnail for Moog Taurus 1 Bass pedals &  Rickenbacker 4001CS on a YES excerpt from track And You and I by Bernard Nicoll

Moog Taurus 1 Bass pedals & Rickenbacker 4001CS on a YES excerpt from track And You and I

Bernard Nicoll

Bernard Nicoll

Reviews

PROS

  • Unmatched bass synth sounds, superior to Minitaur and Sirin

  • Every setting delivers impressive sound quality

  • Renowned for its ability to produce powerful, deep bass

  • Iconic use by famous bands enhances its legacy

  • Versatile for live performances across multiple bands

CONS

  • Limited to mono-synth capabilities, may not suit all musical styles

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Moog Taurus I Bass Pedals (1974-1981).

Features and functionality

  • Owners appreciate the pedal form factor, noting it allows for playing with hands and a foot, similar to a drummer using a kick pedal.

    Source
  • Users suggest that the Moog Taurus I can output at line level, which may require reamping for compatibility with most effects pedals designed for instrument level.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users find the Moog Taurus I reminiscent of iconic bass sounds, describing it as the ultimate for Moog basses.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It's been noted that using MIDI organ pedals with synths like the Minitaur enhances usability, though can be clunky for band practices without dedicated space.

    Source
  • Flanger and tape delay effects are frequently paired with the Moog Taurus I for users seeking to add depth and dimension to their soundscapes.

    Source

Other

  • Enthusiasts recall the need for special shoes to play organ pedals effectively, emphasizing the physical technique required for optimal performance.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • The Arion SCH-1 stereo chorus is recommended for enhancing the raw analog sound of the Moog Taurus I without overwhelming its natural bass tones.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Eventide effects pedals are noted for their compatibility and are highly recommended for use with the Moog Taurus I by experienced owners.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Moog Taurus I | Vintage Synth Explorer

vintagesynth.com

The Moog Taurus I is a revered piece of vintage gear, lauded for its rich, deep bass tones and simple yet effective design. This monophonic bass synthesizer is played with the feet, allowing musicians to multitask on stage. With three preset sounds and one user-configurable option, it offers versatility, although the controls are somewhat limited and hidden to avoid accidental adjustments. Its two-oscillator setup, alongside a classic Moog filter, produces powerful, iconic sounds favored by bands like Rush and Genesis. While its lack of polyphony and limited presets may deter some, its legacy and sound quality make it a cherished tool for the dedicated synth enthusiast.

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 7 Ratings

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mach4
mach4

1256

Appropriately named because there are some times you just don't want to get in its way!

The first of the serious synth bass pedals. Naturally, if anyone was going to make a mono-synth that could kick some serious arse, it was going to be Moog. Used to brilliantly thunderous effect (especially live) by the likes of Genesis, Yes, Rush, Steve Hackett and the like, this otherwise "simple" 2-osc, filter, envelope synth was capable of rattling anything from ancient building foundations, to the teeth and bones of rockers long departed.

rothhandlestudios

Moog Taurus I

I have two sets of these and I use them live with pretty much all of my bands. Classic great sound.

Genres:
From Gear Setup

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Mo Foster uses Moog Taurus I Bass Pedals (1974-1981)

Mo Foster

Bassist, Music Producer

The Secret Police

...
Verified via YouTube

At around 2:16 you can see Mo playing a Moog Taurus with his fists.

See how Michael Iceberg uses Moog Taurus I Bass Pedals (1974-1981)

Michael Iceberg

Keyboardist

...
Verified via YouTube

In this linked video at 0:18 Micheal talks about his modified Moog Taurus 1

Album Usage

The Moog Taurus I Bass Pedals (1974-1981) has been featured on the following albums:

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 Taurus I Bass Pedals (1974-1981), it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

Show yours
rothhandlestudios

rothhandlestudios

Gear IQ 1963

colman_jones

colman_jones

Gear IQ 163

1 alternative for Moog Taurus I Bass Pedals (1974-1981), curated by the Equipboard community.

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