tags: history analog synthesizers music mus-407 electroacoustic midi

Analog Synthesizers

An analog synthesizer is a [synthesizer] device used to [synthesize sound] electronically using analog circuits.

History

First developments in 1960s

Basic concepts extend from early electronic instruments

History intersects with digitally programmable circuits and digital [communication protocols] ([MIDI])

Development partly driven by frustration with magnetic tape and its tedious methodologies.

Design

Design Concepts

The earliest synthesizers were:

Modular

Modular design enables vast creative possibilities:

Modular design led to the introduction of [modulation synthesis].

Common modules:

Hardware

The transistor replaced the vacuum tube of older instruments.

Linear/rotary potentiometers: three-terminal resistor with a sliding or rotating contact that forms an adjustable voltage divider.

Connections

Early synth modules interconnected via audio patch cables:

This often resulted in complex patching configurations. However, module connections in later synths are usually handled by integrated circuits (ICs).

Integrated circuits (ICs): multiple transistors built as an inseparable, functional unit

Compared to patch cables:

Manufacturers

Mid 1960s:

1970s and beyond:

Unincorporated manufacturers

Robert Moog & Moog Music

Originally interested in building theremins.

1964: development of first prototype, presentation at Audio Engineering (AES) Convention

1965: Voltage Controlled Electronic Music Modules, AES Journal publication that details principles and applications of voltage control

"Electronic music, as the term is understood to mean at the present time, is the class of music compositions either created solely by electronic means, or utilizing sounds which have been heavily processed electronically. The electronic composition is recorded, then presented to the listener as pre-composed sound, conceived and performed by the composer." ~ excerpt by Robert A. Moog from Voltage-Controlled Electronic Music Modules

This publication led to some purchases of early Moog synthesizers in subsequent years.

A demonstration was held at Monterey International Pop Festival (California, 1967), and other public concerts in late 1960s.

1968: Switched on Bach, album by Wendy Carlos, breakthrough commercial success of Moog synthesizers

Moog Music is still incorporated and producing instruments today. (ex. Moog Grandmother, 2018)

Buchla Synthesizers

Buchla 100 series, mid-1960s

Buchla-200 series followed in early 1970s, with significant improvements in technology (see: Buchla 200-series Electric Music Box, Silver Apples of the Moon by Morton Subotnick in 1967 and composed using the Buchla 100)

Serge Modular Synthesizer: note the 1V/oct standardization, building on Moog's voltage control principles

ARP Synthesizers:

Development

Polyphony

Synths throughout the 1960s were monophonic:

Early polyphonic synths provided polyphony with some limitations:

Digital Improvements

Tools for digital control and programmability became commercially viable and available ca. mid-1970s, resulting in hybrid analog/[digital] synthesizers before the eventual takeover of digital.

In Pop Culture

Selected early/notable examples: