Image: Bob Moog Foundation
Fancy owning the most famous synthesizer in history? Here’s your chance: The Bob Moog Foundation is raffling off a vintage Minimoog — and it’s not just any Minimoog: it carries Geddy Lee‘s signature.
The synth bears serial number 4070 and has been fully restored. It was asembled at Moog Music’s Williamsville New York factory on Valentine’s Day 1974 (ostensibly with love), and includes the Opto-Key upgrade, which replaces the original mechanical contacts with much lower maintenance infrared light sensors. There are minor cosmetic flaws, but otherwise it’s in excellent technical condition; based on that, its age, and the signature on it, its worth is estimated to be $US10,000 and rising.
Lee has used the Minimoog extensively to create Rush‘s music. “The Minimoog sets itself apart because it has a fat, identifiable tone. I really like that,” he says. He also acknowledges the cultural impact of the synthesizer’s creator: “Bob Moog’s legacy stands out as a pioneer, an inventor, and a stylist. He helped initiate styles of music that wouldn’t have otherwise been possible without his contribution.”
The raffle runs until Monday February 27, or until all tickets have been sold. They’re $25 each, five for $100, twelve for $200, or thirty-five for $500 at the Bob Moog Foundation website. The money will be used to expand Dr. Bob’s Soundschool, the foundation’s educational project, and will also support the awe-inspiringly-named repository of all things vintage Moog, the Moogseum.
Love, Dr. Scott James
