The Moog One represents Moog's most ambitious synthesizer project to date - a flagship polyphonic analog synthesizer that serves as the long-awaited successor to the legendary Memorymoog. Available in both 8-voice and 16-voice configurations, this instrument combines the warmth and character of analog circuitry with extensive digital control and modulation capabilities.
At its heart, the Moog One features a tri-timbral architecture where each "Synth" (the equivalent of a part or layer) can utilize any number of the available voices. Each voice is built around three analog oscillators, three analog filters, and comprehensive modulation systems including four LFOs and three sophisticated contour generators. The signal path remains entirely analog until the optional digital effects processing stage.
The instrument's control surface is a masterclass in ergonomic design, featuring over 200 dedicated single-function controls arranged in an intuitive triptych layout. Every parameter has immediate access without menu diving, while "More" buttons reveal deeper programming possibilities on a central color display. The semi-weighted 61-key Fatar keybed provides velocity and aftertouch sensitivity with multiple response curves.
Sound-wise, the Moog One delivers the expected Moog character with its slightly detuned oscillators and euphonic filter distortions, capable of everything from massive unison leads and rich bass sounds to delicate pads and complex evolving textures. The extensive modulation matrix with 20 slots per Synth enables intricate sound design possibilities, while the polyphonic step sequencers add rhythmic and melodic complexity.
The Moog One also excels as a performance instrument with its comprehensive preset management system, including 128 Performance Sets for live use, extensive export/import capabilities via USB, and the innovative User Spaces feature that allows complete instrument configurations to be saved and transferred between units.
Technical Specifications
Architecture & Voices
- Polyphony: 8-voice or 16-voice models available
- Multitimbrality: 3 Synths (parts) per Preset
- Voice Architecture: Each voice contains 3 analog oscillators + noise generator, 3 analog filters, analog VCA
- Signal Path: Fully analog with optional digital effects
Oscillators (Per Voice)
- Oscillators: 3 analog oscillators per voice
- Waveforms:
- OSC 1-3: Dual simultaneous waveforms
- Primary: Saw/ramp/triangle hybrid with variable reset time (6μs to 1ms)
- Secondary: Variable-width pulse wave (0-100% PWM)
- Tuning Range: 5 octave settings, ±7 semitones fine tune, ±7Hz constant offset
- Sync: Hard sync available on OSC 2 & 3 (default sync to OSC 1)
- FM: Cross-modulation between oscillators
- Additional Features: Wave Angle modulation, independent bend ranges, pitch tracking, key sync
Noise Generator
- Types: 3 spectral combinations (red/white, red/purple, white/purple)
- Control: Dedicated AD/ASR contour generator
- Modulation: Available as modulation source and destination
Filters (Per Voice)
- Filter 1: State Variable Filter (SVF)
- 4 modes: LP/HP/BP/BR (non-sweepable)
- Dual elements (A & B) with variable separation
- Series/parallel routing of elements
- No self-oscillation
- Filter 2: Ladder Filter
- HP/LP modes with 6/12/18/24 dB/oct slopes
- Self-oscillation in LP mode at high resonance
- Unique HP implementation (subtractive from LP)
- Routing: Parallel or series operation with mix control
- Modulation: Dedicated cutoff modulation section, key tracking, FM
Modulation System
- LFOs: 4 per voice
- Frequency ranges: Slow (0.001Hz-1Hz) to High (1Hz-1kHz)
- Waveforms: Triangle, pulse, sawtooth, S&H with morphing
- Features: Clock sync, key sync, delay/fade in/out, cycle limiting, slew filter
- Contour Generators: 3 per voice (Filter EG, Amp EG, Mod EG)
- Type: 6-stage DAHDSR with delay and hold
- Timing: 1ms to ~10s with Time Scale parameter (10%-1000%)
- Curves: Logarithmic, linear, exponential per stage
- Features: Multi-trig, sync, loop, latch, legato reset
- Modulation Matrix: 20 slots per Synth
- 26 Sources, 26 Controllers, 4 Transforms, 90 Destinations
- Mathematical transforms for modulation shaping
Effects
- Synth Effects: 1 per Synth, 18 types including:
- 3-band resonator, vocoders, chorus, delay, reverb, distortion
- Stereo output from mono input
- Master Effects: 2 processors at Preset level
- Same effect types plus 5 Eventide reverbs
- Flexible routing (parallel/series/single channel)
- Insert Busses: 4 TRS outputs for external processing or aux sends
Sequencing & Arpeggiation
- Sequencers: 3 polyphonic step sequencers (1 per Synth)
- 64 steps per sequence
- 20 parameter automation lanes per sequence
- Note entry via step programming or real-time recording
- Features: Ratcheting, ties, rests, velocity, gate length
- Arpeggiators: 1 per Synth with extensive pattern options
- Master Clock: Global tempo sync with swing, nudge, and bend
Performance Controls
Keyboard
- Fatar TP-8S, 61-key semi-weighted
- Velocity sensitive with 5 selectable curves
- Aftertouch (channel pressure)
Performance Panel
- Pitch bend wheel, mod wheel with position memory
- X/Y pad with pressure sensitivity and assignable gate
- Octave shift buttons, portamento/glissando controls
Additional
- Compare function, Snapshot system with auto-save
Memory & Presets
- Preset Storage: Large capacity (specific number not stated)
- Organization: Categories, Moods, Groups, Types (Single/Split/Layer/Multi)
- Performance Sets: 128 sets, 64 presets each
- User Spaces: Complete instrument configuration backup/restore
- Export/Import: USB memory stick support
Connectivity
- Audio Outputs:
- Main L/R (TRS balanced)
- Sub L/R (TRS balanced)
- 4 Insert sends/returns (TRS)
- 2 headphone outputs (front panel)
- Audio Inputs:
- 2 external inputs (XLR/TRS combo + TRS line)
- MIDI: 5-pin DIN In/Thru/Out, USB-B (device)
- Control Voltage:
- 2 CV inputs (±5V)
- 4 CV outputs (±5V)
- 2 expression pedal inputs
- 1 sustain/sostenuto pedal input
- Other:
- USB-A (host),
- CAT5 Ethernet (future expansion)
Physical Specifications
- Dimensions: 107 × 51 × 18 cm (42.1" × 20.1" × 7.1")
- Weight: Approximately 20 kg (44 lbs)
Power
- External power supply
- locking connector
Cooling
- Variable-speed fans with low-fan mode option
Software Features
- Operating System: Updateable firmware (review unit: v1.0.6)
- Browser System: Comprehensive preset organization and search
- Calibration: Planned piano-tuning mode for oscillator calibration
- Notes System: Text annotation for presets and timbres
- MIDI Implementation: Full CC transmission, limited receive implementation
