Moog brings back the Werkstatt-01, a $199 DIY analogue synth with a classic sound

If you’ve always wanted to own a Moog synth but could never quite justify/afford one, maybe you need to give the Werkstatt-01 a try. Originally launched at Moogfest 2014, and available for a limited time afterwards, this is back for the holiday season priced at just $199.

A DIY project - don’t worry, it’s easily put together - the Werkstatt-01 is a patchable and compact analogue synth that’s ideal for learning the basic principles of sound design. This re-issue also includes the 3.5mm CV Expander, giving you more connectivity options and flexibility.

It was the Werkstatt-01 that kickstarted Moog’s recent line of semi-modular synths, which now includes the Mother-32, DFAM, Grandmother, Matriarch and Subharmonicon. It includes a single full-range analogue oscillator with selectable waveforms, a Moog Ladder Filter and an LFO for adding movement to your sounds. There’s also a two-stage analogue envelope generator with sustain.

The CV Expander includes 12 jacks and can be used to reconfigure the Werkstatt-01’s circuits or hook it up to other synths, Eurorack systems, drum machines and more.

It’s also worth pointing out that the Werkstatt-01 can be easily modded - Moog has even put together a series of videos that show you how to do it.

Find out more on the Moog website.

Ben Rogerson

I’m the Deputy Editor of MusicRadar, having worked on the site since its launch in 2007. I previously spent eight years working on our sister magazine, Computer Music. I’ve been playing the piano, gigging in bands and failing to finish tracks at home for more than 30 years, 24 of which I’ve also spent writing about music and the ever-changing technology used to make it. 

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