History

Synthesis Technology was founded by Paul Schreiber in 1998.

Paul started out with MOTM, a 5U modular synthesizer that became a format unto itself. MOTM enabled musicians and electronics enthusiasts to build their very own DIY synthesizer, one module at a time. Although the 5U size, 1/4" jack connections, and utilitarian black front panels recalled the Moog modular synths of the 1970s, MOTM improved on those foundations with updated components and modernized engineering techniques. When microcontroller technology took a leap forward in the early 2000s, the all-analog MOTM lineup was augmented with digital modules such as the MOTM-650 MIDI interface.

Four modules extrapolated from the MOTM series were released in the smaller Frac Rack 3U format circa 2006: the MOTM-1190 Dual VCA, MOTM-1485 GX VCF, MOTM-1490 Ladder VCF, and MOTM-1800 Looping ADSR.

The explosive growth of Eurorack format and demand from existing customers convinced Paul to reinvent his brand again. The E340 Cloud Generator was released in 2010, introducing Paul's wizardry to a new audience, followed shortly afterward by the wildly popular E350 Morphing Terrarium. Synthesis Technology was among the crowded first wave of Eurorack brands but Paul's modules stood out from the competition thanks to their innovative concepts, meticulous engineering, and uncompromising build quality.

Paul's work on MOTM was eventually phased out in favor of Eurorack R&D. Circa 2013 the MOTM brand was acquired by Synthcube, with modules and DIY kits sold through the MOTM Synthesizers website. Paul was now free to develop Eurorack modules full time, leading to the release of several ground-breaking analog-digital hybrids such as the the E352 Cloud Terrarium, the E370 Quad Morphing VCO, and the E520 Hyperion Processor.

After announcing his retirement in 2023, Paul unexpectedly returned to the scene in 2024 with new Eurorack modules inspired by classic analog filter topologies. These included the E430 Morphing SVF, the E490 Ladder VCF, and other designs which were still in development when Paul passed away in March 2025 at the age of 68. Paul left behind a legacy of highly influential modules that inspired countless musicians and synthesizer designers.

The future of Synthesis Technology is currently unclear, but as of June 2026 the website is still being maintained and will remain online for as long as possible. Limited batches of the E430, E490, and perhaps other modules will be available from Analogue Haven while supplies last.