FRI 2/28 : 21:00

A Closer Look into the Synth

Exploring the history and rich complexity of analog machines. From the inception of the first analog machine, to the practicality of modern day modulars. Read on to learn more.

Where It All Began

The world of synthesizers is a fascinating journey through technological innovation and artistic expression. From the inception of the first analog synthesizers to the practicality of modern modulars, these instruments have transformed the landscape of music production.

The journey began in the early 20th century with the development of the first analog synthesizers. Pioneering inventors like Leon Theremin and Robert Moog laid the groundwork for what would become a revolutionary tool in music. Moog’s synthesizer, introduced in the 1960s, was one of the first to gain widespread popularity. It featured a range of controls that allowed musicians to shape their sounds in unprecedented ways.

As technology advanced, so did the capabilities of synthesizers. In the 1970s and 1980s, the introduction of digital synthesizers expanded the possibilities even further. These instruments utilized digital signal processing (DSP) to replicate and enhance the sounds of their analog predecessors.

In recent years, the resurgence of interest in analog gear has led to a renaissance of modular synthesizers. These modern machines offer musicians unparalleled flexibility and control, allowing them to create unique, custom sounds that blend the best of both analog and digital worlds.

At its core, a synthesizer is a complex interplay of mathematics and physics. Whether it’s the manipulation of waveforms or the intricate design of filters and envelopes, synthesizers are a testament to human creativity and the quest to expand the boundaries of sound.