Moog Messenger Unveiled by Synth Anatomy at Superbooth 2025

The atmosphere at Superbooth 2025 was electric, as Synth Anatomy uncovered the new Moog Messenger. An independent creation, not a mere iteration of a previous model, the Messenger is Moog’s fresh offering from under the inMusic umbrella. Building on the legacy of Bob Moog, from theremins to modulars, the Messenger continues the tradition of innovation that Moog is renowned for. It embodies a new wave in monophonic synthesis, stepping outside the shadow of its ancestors while still honouring the spirit of its forebears.

The heart of the Messenger is its new oscillator design, which offers something quite unusual for a Moog synth – wavefolding. Synth Anatomy got the inside scoop with product director Eric Norlander, revealing that wavefolders are present on both oscillators and even the sub-oscillator. This allows for a delightfully mangled array of sound shaping, bringing West Coast craziness into the typically East Coast Moog domain. The oscillators shape continuously from triangle to sawtooth to square, offering an unprecedented level of control. The labyrinth-inspired wavefolder adds a distinctive flavour, especially to the triangle waves, expanding Moog’s sonic palette.

A Moog without its signature ladder filter would be like fish without chips, right? Fear not. Messenger features a freshly designed filter that combines the classic Moog feel with new twists. While the iconic four-pole ladder low-pass is present, newcomers like the two-pole low pass and a resonant four-pole band pass add to its versatility. Synth Anatomy emphasises how res bass mixes poles to combat the notorious bass drop off when dialling up resonance, ensuring that those basslines stay punchy and fat. The innovative touches give the Messenger a unique roar, differentiating it from older Moog models while paying homage to the classic sound we adore.

Eric Norlander takes pride in Messenger’s hands-on approach, eschewing screens for something more tactile. Synth Anatomy showcases the LED-lit interface, a nod to classic synth knobs and sliders, combined with modern MIDI functionality. The Messenger is packed with I/O options – USB-C, five-pin DIN MIDI, and a nice assortment of CV and gate inputs and outputs. Both the sequencer and arpeggiator borrow elements from the Muse, making them highly flexible. Synth partner reference points to how feedback can be ramped up to aggressive levels, thanks to the cleverly designed external input options. The keypad, custom-designed with velocity and aftertouch, rounds out the experience, promising an authentic playability that respects the past whilst embracing the future.