The Bob Moog Foundation has announced its lead raffle for 2025, which is definitely one that Oberheim fans will not want to miss. These raffles are known for incredible prizes and this one is no exception. One lucky winner will walk away with a fully restored Oberheim Matrix-12 synthesizer signed by Tom Oberheim, Marcus Ryle, and Michel Doidic. Ryle and Doidic were the principal designers of the Matrix-12, so having their signatures on it along with that of Tom makes for a historical prize.

The Matrix-12 is not only valued at $20,000 but also has some unique provenance. It was owned by the inventor of the legendary Curtis chips, Doug Curtis, whose widow, Mary, donated the synth to the Bog Moof Foundation. The timing for this prize is also great as 2025 marks the 40th anniversary of the launch of this iconic synth, which ended up being the final flagship synthesizer from Oberheim Electronics in the 1980s. 

 The synth being raffled has been in storage since 2007 after Doug passed away from pancreatic cancer at only 55 years of age. According to his wife, they had to think hard about donating such a legendary instrument that meant so much to Doug. However, his family came to the conclusion that Doug would have said yes to the idea because it would raise money for the important work of the Bob Moog Foundation.  

The Matrix-12 is in pristine condition after being restored by its co-creator, Marcus Ryle. Marcus was one of the principal designers of the synth and did a thorough job on the restoration by replacing all power supply electrolytic capacitors and installing a new battery. The synth has also been thoroughly inspected and cleaned, has the latest firmware, and includes the 12-voice direct output optional add-on. 

The Winter 2025 Raffle is open now until Monday, March 10, 2025, at 11:59 pm (EST). Tickets are available at $25 each with discounted prices of 5 for $100, 12 for $200, and 35 for $500. Everyone who participates and buys more than five tickets will also be invited to an exclusive Zoom call with Marcus Ryle, which will be held early in April. The raffle is open internationally and as always the proceeds will benefit the three hallmark projects of the Bob Moog Foundation. These include Dr. Bob’s SoundSchool, Bob Moog Foundation Archives, and of course the Moogseum in Asheville, NC. For more information, or to purchase tickets for this historic raffle, visit the official Moog Foundation website (https://moogfoundation.org/winter-2025-raffle-announcement-pristine-signed-oberheim-matrix-12-synthesizer/).