Moog Werkstatt-01 Analog Synth Kit and CV Expander

The Moog Werkstatt-Ø1 is a fun but limited synth, perfect for creating sample libraries as well as using in a modular setup. My use for it was creating a sample library. I did not use it with any external CV gear. I did use the CV patch bay in my patches however and I DID opt to not attach the 1/8" ports as there were a couple of CV points that had multiple connections with the smaller patch cables that were lost using the 1/8" breakout attachment. First off the filter is classic Moog. If you want Moog sound on a budget, here it is. Now I believe the classic Moog sound also comes from the interplay of detuned oscillators like the three on the Minimoog and that is simply not available here but this still has a good sound and there are quite a range of tones to be found. I like how the LFO goes into audio rate for analog-FM tones. This does give an element of beating that is almost akin to multiple oscillators. One drawback and I do take a point off for this is the envelope only has a full sustain and attack & release segments. It's impossible to decay down to a moderate sustain level. Sustain is either on or off. It's just the nature of the synth but a sure drawback. The CV matrix really opens up the synth beyond the front panel knob and switch controls. Without a full understanding of modular systems but with a firm grasp on synthesis, I was able to get a pretty interesting range of sonic textures from this little synth. It's quite easy to build and took very little time at all. No soldering is required and it feels pretty sturdy once assembled. All in all the Werkstatt is great for getting an extremely inexpensive albeit limited Moog sound in your setup.

Really low quality materials. Mine had parts missing, and the parts included were poorly made and didn't fit together properly, so the product is completely unusable. The buttons aren't big enough to project through the openings in the chassis. An absolute and total waste of money. The worst product I have ever purchased.

I bought this at a Guitar Center at the nice price. I use it with a modular set-up. If you have a little space on the side of your rack, get this and wire it up. It's a real Moog oscillator and filter in a tank-like shell. The bass it can generate is astounding for such an inexpensive Moog.

This little synth is not an impulse buy, but to get a genuine famous Moog sound for this money is an absolute no brainer. There are 2 uses I can think of myself (and use them as such), but there are so many more: 1/ you wanted to learn analog synths without making your credit card melt in your pocket, just wanted to learn the basics of subtractive synthesis and tinker around. which is what I originally got it for. 2/ you already own an analog synth with Eurorack CV capabilities and are looking to add another envelope and oscillator and LFO. Which is what I did. Now about the Werkstatt itself. No soldering, all just screws and pops together. You get several patch cables and can start playing right away, don't even need a keyboard. I recommend Moog's own YouTube channel where they have a playlist dedicated to Werkstatt - how to assemble, how to calibrate it and many patching ideas + some insane performances. This is a fully analog synth, there is no MIDI, not presets, just pure analog goodness and the oscillator sounds just like the one on my Grandmother - Saw and Pulse wave. The ladder filter is there and sounds just as all Moogs do - thick, smooth, losing some low end as you close it down and will self oscillate. LFO will go into the audible range too - not high enough, though. Envelope is simple, but works well. CAUTION: if you do use the expander, you must use the silver screws, not the black painted ones to hold the expander in place - or it won't work - paint works as insulation and it won't ground Here comes the biggest problem with buying a Werkstatt: it'll ensnare you and you will want more. So I ended with Moog's Mother-32 and Grandmother as well! Great setpping stone and wonderful supplement to any Eurorack.