The Moog Messenger is a beautiful monophonic analog keyboard synthesizer crafted for the modern electronic musician, producer, sound designer, and sonic explorer. This instrument represents a new chapter in Moog's legendary synthesizer lineage, engineered to open new portals of artistic expression through the power of analog sound synthesis.
An Experimental Expression Engine
Whether you're taking your first steps into the world of synthesis or you're a seasoned sound designer, the Messenger welcomes all experience levels. For newcomers, its intuitive layout features clearly labeled controls that invite immediate hands-on exploration, encouraging a deeper understanding of sound shaping and sculpting techniques. The instrument serves as an excellent educational tool while delivering professional-grade results.
For experienced synthesists, the Messenger offers innovative twists on beloved analog circuitry, seamlessly blending Moog's iconic, raw analog sound with flexible, modern features designed for both stage and studio applications. The synthesizer builds upon the DNA of Moog's most celebrated monosynths—including the Minimoog Model D, Voyager, Grandmother, and Subsequent 37—while introducing fresh innovations to the familiar format.
Sound Architecture
At the heart of the Messenger lies a sophisticated sound engine featuring two oscillators equipped with wavefolding functionality, allowing for complex harmonic manipulation and dynamic timbral evolution. A continuously variable waveshape sub-oscillator provides additional harmonic foundation, while the legendary Moog transistor ladder filter has been enhanced with resonance bass compensation, multiple filter slopes, and true multimode functionality.
The instrument's dual looping ADSR envelopes provide extensive modulation possibilities, while the 32 semi-weighted full-size keys respond to both velocity and aftertouch, offering expressive control over your performance. The robust metal panel construction ensures durability for both studio work and live performance scenarios.
Creative Possibilities
The Messenger excels across a vast sonic spectrum. Craft soaring lead lines that cut through any mix, or dive deep into rumbling bass territories that shake the foundations. Create delicately textured pads that evolve over time, or program flowing arpeggios that cascade into infinity. The instrument is equally at home building percussive elements with custom kicks, snares, and toms, or exploring abstract soundscapes through dense drones and inharmonic metallic textures.
Performance and Composition Tools
With 256 onboard presets organized into 16 banks of 16 patches each, the Messenger allows for immediate saving and recall of your favorite sounds. The intuitive arpeggiator offers a plethora of patterns for compositional inspiration, while the unique sequencer features probabilistic controls that introduce controlled randomness and parameter recording capabilities for up to 64 steps.
Expression and sustain pedal inputs enhance live performance capabilities, while comprehensive connectivity options ensure seamless integration into any studio or live setup. Six analog control voltage patch points provide Eurorack compatibility, positioning the Messenger at the core of modular synthesis environments.
Technical Specifications
Core
- Sound Engine: Analog
- Polyphony: Monophonic
Keyboard & Controllers
- Number of Keys: 32
- Key Type: Semi-weighted full-size keys with velocity and aftertouch
Controllers
- Patch-points
- Pitch Bend,
- Mod Wheel,
- External CV
- Pedal inputs
Sound Sources
- Oscillators: 2x Variable Waveshape Voltage-Controlled Oscillators with Wavefolder
- Sub Oscillator: 1x Variable Waveshape Sub Oscillator
- Noise Generator: 1x Analog White Noise Generator
- External Input: 1x External Input/Filter Feedback
Signal Processing
- Filter: 1x Voltage-Controlled Multimode Moog Transistor Ladder Filter with Selectable Resonance Compensation
- Amplifier: 1x Voltage-Controlled Amplifier
- Filter Features: Multiple filter slopes, true multimode functionality, resonance bass compensation via RES BASS switch, 2-pole and 4-pole low-pass filter slopes
Modulation
- Envelopes: 2x ADSR Loopable Envelopes
- LFOs:
- 1x Selectable Waveshape LFO (LFO 1)
- 1x Triangle Wave LFO (LFO 2)
- Modulation Options: Expanded frequency and audio rate modulation via Oscillator 2
Memory & Sequencing
- Presets: 256 patches (16 banks, 16 patches per bank)
- Sequencer: 64-step sequence saveable per patch with probabilistic controls
- Arpeggiator: Multiple patterns with cascading capabilities
Connectivity
- Audio Input: 1x 6.5mm TS jack
- Audio Output:
- 1x 6.5mm TS main output
- 1x 6.5mm TRS headphone output
- MIDI I/O:
- 5-pin DIN MIDI In
- 5-pin DIN MIDI Out
- USB-C MIDI
- CV/Gate Connections: 6x 3.5mm TS jacks
- CV/Gate In
- CV/Gate Out
- Analog Clock In/Out
- Pedal Inputs:
- Sustain pedal input (6.5mm TRS)
- Expression pedal input (6.5mm TRS)
Physical Specifications
- Weight: 4.95 kg (10.91 lbs)
- Dimensions:
- Width: 58.50 cm (23.03 inches)
- Depth: 32.16 cm (12.66 inches)
- Height: 9.65 cm (3.80 inches)
- Construction: Robust metal panel
Power Requirements
- Power Supply: Included 12V DC (Center Positive) Power Supply
- AC Input: 100-240V AC, 50/60 Hz