Description

Olé! Moog Taurus III Bass Pedals, $4999!

The Moog Taurus III Bass Synth Pedals are a modern reimagining of the classic Moog Taurus bass pedals, originally made famous in the 1970s and 1980s by bands like Rush and Genesis. The Taurus III was introduced in 2010 as a limited edition, combining the analog power of its predecessors with modern enhancements for greater flexibility and reliability. Known for its deep, floor-shaking bass tones, the Taurus III is a favorite among bassists, keyboardists, and synth enthusiasts looking to add a powerful low-end presence to their music.

Key Features

Sound Characteristics

  • Classic Moog Analog Sound: The Taurus III delivers the unmistakable analog warmth and punch that Moog is renowned for, with fat, deep bass tones that can be smooth or aggressive depending on how it’s dialed in.
  • True Analog Oscillators: The synth features two oscillators per voice, allowing for thick, detuned bass sounds or more precise, cutting tones.
  • Legendary Bass Presets: The Taurus III comes with the original Taurus I bass presets (Taurus, Bass, Tuba), as well as modern presets and user-editable patches, offering a wide range of sounds from classic to contemporary.
  • Powerful Moog Ladder Filter: The classic Moog ladder filter provides rich, resonant sweeps and is a key part of the Taurus sound, adding warmth and character to the bass tones.

Controls and Interface

  • Pedal Interface: The Taurus III uses a foot-controlled pedalboard with 13 velocity-sensitive pedals, similar to an organ bass pedalboard, allowing performers to play bass lines with their feet while playing another instrument with their hands.
  • Preset and Edit Modes: Players can easily switch between preset and user modes, with 52 programmable presets available, offering instant access to a wide range of sounds.
  • Real-Time Control: The Taurus III includes several knobs and buttons on the top panel for real-time control of key parameters, such as filter cutoff, resonance, attack, decay, and more.
  • Expression Pedal Input: An external expression pedal can be connected to control parameters like filter cutoff or volume dynamically.

Build and Design

  • Sturdy Construction: Built with a rugged, stage-ready chassis, the Taurus III is designed to withstand the rigors of live performance and regular transport.
  • Classic Moog Aesthetic: The Taurus III retains the look and feel of its predecessors, with wood side panels and a control panel layout reminiscent of classic Moog synths.
  • LED Display: A bright LED display provides clear information on preset selection, parameter values, and more, making it easy to navigate in low-light environments.

Connectivity

  • Audio Output: 1/4″ mono output for connecting to an amplifier, mixer, or audio interface.
  • MIDI In/Out: Full MIDI capability, allowing the Taurus III to be controlled by an external MIDI device or to control other MIDI-equipped instruments.
  • USB: USB connectivity for software updates and MIDI control, integrating easily with modern DAWs and other MIDI setups.
  • Expression Pedal Input: 1/4″ jack for connecting an external expression pedal.

Specifications

  • Oscillators: 2 oscillators per voice
  • Filter: Classic Moog ladder filter with adjustable cutoff and resonance
  • Presets: 52 programmable presets (including original Taurus I sounds)
  • Control Panel: Real-time control knobs and buttons for key parameters
  • Pedalboard: 13 velocity-sensitive pedals
  • Audio Output: 1/4″ mono output
  • MIDI: MIDI In/Out, USB-MIDI
  • Expression Pedal Input: 1/4″ jack for external expression pedal
  • Power Supply: Internal power supply (IEC connector)

Country of Manufacture

  • USA: The Moog Taurus III is manufactured in the United States, reflecting Moog’s commitment to high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Notable Features

  • Classic Taurus Sound: Delivers the iconic Moog Taurus bass sound with modern enhancements.
  • Programmable Presets: 52 programmable presets provide instant access to a wide range of bass tones.
  • Sturdy Build: Designed for the stage, with a durable chassis and reliable performance.
  • MIDI and USB Connectivity: Full MIDI and USB integration for modern setups.

Notable Users

  • Geddy Lee (Rush): Known for his extensive use of the Taurus pedals in Rush, particularly for adding a powerful bass layer during live performances.
  • Tony Banks (Genesis): Used Taurus pedals to create deep, foundational bass tones in Genesis’ progressive rock compositions.
  • John Paul Jones (Led Zeppelin): Utilized the Taurus for its thick, sustaining bass sounds in Led Zeppelin’s live shows.