Polivoks Synthesizer Designer Vladimir Kuzmin Has Demised
Vladimir Kuzmin, the Russian engineer and synthesizer designer best known for creating the Formanta Polivoks synthesizer, has demised.
Elta Music, which had collaborated with Kuzmin on several Polivoks-inspired designs, announced the news:
“Greetings to the entire synth enthusiast community. We have some bad news for you.
Vladimir Kuzmin, creator of the iconic POLIVOKS synthesizer, passed away on June 12th.
Rest and peace our dear friend. Our collaboration was wonderful. Condolences to the family.”
Developed in 1980 and manufactured during the Soviet era, the Polivoks became one of the best-known electronic instruments produced in the Soviet Union. It remains sought out by musicians and sound designers, and many instruments and modules have taken inspiration from its design.
The Polivoks was engineered by Kuzmin, while his wive Olimpiada Kuzmin handled the industrial design of the instrument.
Kuzmin’s design lives on in instruments from Elta Music, Erica Synths and others.
