The Moog Factory in Asheville, NC has resumed production of the highly sought-after Moog 16 Channel Vocoder, an instrument which continuously analyzes the timbral characteristics of one sound (Program) and impresses these timbral characteristics upon a second signal (Carrier). Originally introduced in 1978, and famously heard on Giorgio Moroder’s E=MC2, this model has been used to transmute vocals, transform synthesizers, and electronically encode sound for over 40 years.
The Moog Vocoder helped shape the sound of modern music. The Moog Vocoder was released in 1979 and used by artists such as Wendy Carlos, Devo, Giorgio Moroder, Moog Cookbook, Saga, Yellow Magic Orchestra, and filmmaker/composer John Carpenter, among others. A 16-band analog signal processor that continuously analyzes the timbral characteristics of a sound (the Program) and impresses its timbral characteristics upon a second signal (the Carrier), the Vocoder is perfect for mutating vocals, warping synthesizers, and much more. The 16-channel Vocoder’s analog voice circuits are hand-soldered at the employee-owned Moog Factory in Asheville, NC to deliver that classic ’70s sound. The Moog Vocoder is an exclusive Limited Edition and only a limited number will be made.
The all-analog device splits the carrier signal into 16 frequency bands ranging from 50Hz to 5,080Hz. With no internal oscillators, it is designed to be used as a signal processor for external carrier and modulator wave sources. The modulator is typically a vocal or drum beat used to modulate the carrier voice, synth, or other sound being processed.
The Vocoder is equipped with microphone and line inputs, as well as 16 synthesizer inputs (one for each frequency band), and 16 outputs. Its 16-channel cross-matrix patching system provides incredible flexibility, allowing for full external patching between synth and vocoder sections. Other features include a high-frequency bypass, sample-and-hold, a short 6ms response time for capturing quick percussive sounds, and a global bypass switch to turn off the vocoding effect.
Moog went to great lengths to ensure that the distinctive electronic voice of their legendary Vocoder carries on. Designed from the original schematics, the Moog 16-channel Vocoder features updated mechanical connectors and a modern power supply to improve reliability and long-term serviceability while ensuring that the analog soul of this instrument — and its inimitable sonic character and idiosyncrasies — remain intact. Built like a tank, the Moog Vocoder chassis is ideal for both desktop and rackmount deployment in your studio.