Moog Synthesizer IIIc
The Moog Synthesizer IIIc is a rare, early modular analog synthesizer from R.A. Moog Co. It was one of the company's first portable "performance" modular systems aimed at studios and live use. It comes with a built-in 49-note keyboard with pitch and modulation wheels. The IIIc is essentially the keyboard-equipped sibling of the IIIp. The two share the same circuitry, and the difference is the IIIp's portable studio cabinet without a keyboard.
The system is built from standard Type III modules: Moog 901 voltage-controlled oscillators, the 904A low-pass filter, 902 VCAs, and 911 envelope generators, all patched via 1/4" jacks. It is fully analog and monophonic, with no presets. Every sound is built from scratch by routing cables across the sloped cabinet panel. Sources list a frequency response of 20 Hz - 20 kHz (±3 dB), signal-to-noise better than 60 dB unweighted, and a maximum output of +20 dBm / 7.75V rms. These figures appear to come from Moog's general Series III brochure, though, and may apply to the III family broadly rather than the IIIc alone.
The IIIc's most notable historical claim comes from Abbey Road. Engineer Ken Scott brought it in for a demo during the Abbey Road sessions, and the episode is documented in Scott's memoir. Audio (October 1970, p.73) carried classified ads in the same period the IIIc was in circulation, though no formal review of the instrument appears in that issue.
Surviving documentation is thin. No exact production count, original retail price, or cabinet dimensions are confirmed in the record. What is clear is that the instrument is exceedingly rare. Only a few dozen units are thought to have been made.
Known Specs
- Modular analog synthesizer, monophonic
- 49-note keyboard with pitch and modulation wheels
- Moog 901 VCOs, 904A low-pass filter, 902 VCA, 911 envelope generators
- 1/4" patching jacks
- Walnut cabinet with sloped module panel
- Moog 903 power supply
Similar items on eBay
No exact Moog Synthesizer IIIc listings are live right now — these searches show current Moog and similar vintage synth gear on eBay:
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.