Espen Kraft Gets Quirky: Memorymoog Sequencer Goes Full Aussie

10. December 2025

TAS

Espen Kraft Gets Quirky: Memorymoog Sequencer Goes Full Aussie

Ready for a wild ride through 80s synth territory? Espen Kraft, the retro wizard himself, dives headfirst into the Memorymoog’s sequencer—a beast that’s as quirky as a platypus at a pool party. With polyphonic and monophonic tricks up its sleeve, this old-school legend gets a workout with CV, gate, and a dash of chaos. If you’re keen on vintage gear that’s equal parts fun and fiddly, this video’s got more twists than a Melbourne tramline. Grab your stubby, settle in, and let’s see if this synth can keep up with your next outback jam.

Quirk Factor: Memorymoog Sequencer Unleashed

Espen Kraft kicks things off by wrangling the Memorymoog’s sequencer, a machine that’s got more personality than a footy team after finals. With both polyphonic and monophonic sequencing on tap, this beast isn’t just a one-trick pony—it’s a whole rodeo. The interface might look like it’s straight out of a VHS instructional tape, but don’t let that fool you: it’s packing some serious creative firepower.

What really sets this sequencer apart is its ability to store both types of sequences in each memory location. That means you can layer up lush chords and then slap a monophonic line over the top, all without breaking a sweat. It’s a setup that’s as flexible as a yoga instructor at a bush doof, and Espen’s playful approach makes it clear that this isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about having a bloody good time.

You can also use step time recording, which I'm not going to show here.

© Screenshot/Quote: Espenkraft (YouTube)

Old-School Setup: CV, Gate, and a Dash of Nostalgia

Programming a sequence on the Memorymoog is like firing up the BBQ at a family reunion—there’s a ritual to it, and a fair bit of smoke and sizzle. Espen walks us through setting the tempo, picking your beats, and deciding how many voices to throw into the mix. The process is hands-on, tactile, and just a bit unpredictable—perfect for those who like their synths with a side of adventure.

The real magic comes when you start playing with the CV and gate outputs. Suddenly, you’re not just making music—you’re conducting a voltage-fuelled orchestra. It’s a nostalgic throwback to the days when patch cables ruled the studio, and every knob twist could lead to a happy accident. If you’re the type who loves experimenting, this setup is a playground waiting for your next sonic prank.


Patch Cables Galore: Triggering Other Synths

The memory mode is only triggering another synth through CV and gate and it's playing the MFB Dominion one analog synth through its CV and…

© Screenshot/Quote: Espenkraft (YouTube)

Here’s where things get spicy. Espen shows off how the Memorymoog can trigger other synths—like the MFB Dominion 1—using its trusty CV and gate outputs. It’s like inviting your mates over for a jam and letting the Memorymoog play ringmaster. With two cables running the show (one for pitch, one for gate), you can make other gear dance to the Memorymoog’s tune.

Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing—there’s a bit of voltage trimming to keep everything in tune, but that’s half the fun. Watching Espen patch things up is a reminder that this kind of hands-on control is what makes vintage gear so addictive. If you’ve ever wanted to turn your studio into a spaghetti junction of cables, this is your golden ticket.

Sync or Swim: The Memorymoog’s Clock Challenge

Now, syncing the Memorymoog is where things get interesting—like trying to herd sheep during a thunderstorm. Espen attempts to wrangle the sequencer with an external clock from the Ayla S2400, aiming for that perfect groove lock. The Memorymoog Plus has a clock input and even MIDI, but in true retro fashion, Espen sticks to the old-school methods for this demo.

It’s a bit of a gamble, but when the external clock finally kicks the sequencer into gear, it’s a moment of pure satisfaction. Sure, there are a few rough edges and some dodgy playing, but that’s the charm of vintage gear—sometimes it works, sometimes it throws you a curveball. Either way, it keeps you on your toes and makes every jam session an adventure.

If that incoming clock from the S2400 can trigger the sequencer to start in the right tempo, it would be the icing on the cake.

© Screenshot/Quote: Espenkraft (YouTube)

Dive Deeper: Sound Demos and Sequencing Shenanigans Await

If you’re itching for more than just a taste of the Memorymoog’s sequencing antics, Espen’s original video is where the real action happens. From wild sound examples to unique sequencing tricks, some things just have to be heard to be believed. Trust me, mate—words can’t do justice to the sonic chaos on offer, so give the video a squiz and let your ears be the judge.


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