User's Manual

VOLUME
PITCH
5
THEREMINI OVERVIEW
Congratulations on the purchase of your new Theremini.
The Theremin is one of the oldest electronic musical instruments*. As
with all Theremin instruments, the Moog Theremini is played by interacting
with two electronic antennae using subtle hand gestures. One antenna is a
horizontal loop used to control the Volume; a vertical rod antenna is used
to control the Pitch.
Due to the nature of these antennae, the Theremini is very sensitive
both to the player AND its environment. Special care should be used
when preparing a space to perform with your Theremini. Use the simple
calibration procedure each time you move your Theremini to ensure a
flawless performance.
The Moog Theremini is an ideal first Theremin. Unlike traditional Theremins
that play a continuous sweep of pitches, the Theremini’s Pitch Correction
system allows the Theremini to play the distinct notes and steps of a
musical scale; 22 Scales are available, beginning on any of 12 Root notes.
This Pitch Correction can be added in any amount, effectively changing
the Theremini’s level of playing difficulty to match any performer’s skill.
The front panel hosts a multi-function LCD screen that makes it easy to
choose a preset, change settings, and quickly edit parameters. The built-in
tuner uses the LCD to display both the note being played, and to indicate
whether the note is being played sharp, flat, or perfectly in tune. This
provides an excellent tool for improving pitch accuracy.
The Theremini features a built-in speaker, plus a headphone jack for private
rehearsal. Based on Moog’s award-winning Animoog synthesizer, the internal
sound engine offers 32 presets, each providing a distinctly different tonality,
or timbre. In addition, an onboard stereo effects section is provided, adding
lush trails or spaciousness to the overall sound of your Theremini.
*Curious? A brief history of the Theremin can be found on page 29 of this manual.