Analogue Synthesizers
An analogue synthesizer is a type of synthesizer that uses analog circuits and analog computer techniques to generate a sound. This sound is generated electronically. There are many different types of analogue synthesizers that have evolved over time.
1. First generation modular synthesizers – the early form of these machines used laboratory test equipment to create a sound. This generally consisted of modular synthesizers that were connected by patch cables.
2. First generation all in one synthesizers – using the same building blocks as previous synthesizers that were combined to create one unit. This eliminated the patch cords in favour of an integrated signal routing system. The most popular of these types of synthesizers was the Minimoog.
3. Third generation all in one synthesizers – this type of synthesizer first came onto the market in 1978. It was considered the first microprocessor controlled analog synthesizer created by Sequential Circuits. Microprocessors were used for system controls and control voltage generations. A MIDI interface system was developed for this type of synthesizer device.
Most analog synthesizers have been replaced by digital synthesizers in the 1980s. However, in the 1990s there was a rise once again in the use of the analog synthesizers. This increase in the use of the analog synthesizer was due to the fact that musicians were interested in created electronic music. This was also a more cost effective way to create electronic music as digital synthesizers were much more expensive. Musicians began to discover the great qualities of the analog synthesizers throughout the 1990s and into 2000.