Wavemakers – the forgotten synth manufacturer

Theo Bloderer

9 years ago

Know the Wavemakers? KB electronic music instrumentation? No? Hardly anyone remembers that American company, which built quality modular systems in the shadow of Moog. Established in 1970, the company closed in the early 1980s. Besides modules / (semi-)modular synthesizers, Wavemakers also made a nice range of audio gear (reverb, equalizers, sequencers, etc.).

“Wavemakers was a mobile operation, beginning in Ann Arbor, Michigan, later moving to Edmonds, Washington. The company began in 1970 around the University of Michigan, creating custom modules for the university and area musicians. […] Wavemakers was the brand of synthesizers and electronic music equipment created by “kb electronic music instrumentation,” initially a collaborative effort between Terry Kincaid and David Bates.” (source: http://www.wavemakers-synth.com)

“Wavemaker 4” and “Wavemaker 6” might be the company’s most known instruments. Semi-modular synthesizers, hand-built, fascinating and beautiful! Their color is anodised blue, with neat chunky knobs …

John Loffink’s excellent website http://www.wavemakers-synth.com is dedicated to the history and documentation of the Wavemakers. Have a look – it’s worth reading!

Our report is completed by photos of Wavemakers modules. Some of the modules seem to be working, but others have not yet been completed …