Robert Moog's Prototype Synthesizer, 1964-1965

Summary

This prototype synthesizer--a collaboration between engineer Robert Moog and composer Herbert Deutsch--is a musical icon. Synthesizers create unique electronically produced sounds. Moog's solid-state synthesizer was musically superior and much more portable than earlier vacuum-tube-based systems. In 1968, the album Switched-On Bach introduced the Moog synthesizer to a wider audience. Synthesizers quickly became a mainstay of popular music.

This prototype synthesizer--a collaboration between engineer Robert Moog and composer Herbert Deutsch--is a musical icon. Synthesizers create unique electronically produced sounds. Moog's solid-state synthesizer was musically superior and much more portable than earlier vacuum-tube-based systems. In 1968, the album Switched-On Bach introduced the Moog synthesizer to a wider audience. Synthesizers quickly became a mainstay of popular music.

Artifact

Synthesizer

Date Made

1964-1965

Creators

R. A. Moog Company 

Place of Creation

United States 

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

82.68.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Metal
Wood (Plant Material)

Color

Black (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 8.25 in  (keyboard)

Width: 36.75 in  (keyboard)

Length: 21 in  (keyboard)

Height: 19 in  (generator / amp)

Width: 10 in  (generator / amp)

Length: 7 in  (generator / amp)

Height: 19 in  (power supply)

Width: 10.125 in  (power supply)

Length: 10 in  (power supply)