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As a pioneer in the electronic genre and his ensemble the pioneering act transformed mainstream melodies while inspiring performers ranging from Bowie to Run-DMC.

Now, the electronic equipment along with devices that Florian Schneider used for producing Kraftwerk's iconic tracks in the 1970s and 1980s could fetch substantial bids as they go under the hammer at auction next month.

Exclusive Preview into Late Personal Work

Recordings from an independent endeavor the artist was developing just before he died after a cancer diagnosis aged 73 back in 2020 is being shared initially through a clip about the auction.

Vast Assortment of His Items

Alongside the compact synthesizer, the wooden flute and his vocoders – that he employed to make his voice sound like a robot – collectors have the opportunity to purchase approximately 500 of Schneider’s personal possessions in the sale.

Among them are the assortment exceeding 100 brass and woodwind instruments, several snapshots, his sunglasses, the passport for his travels before 1979 and his VW panel van, given a gray finish.

The bike he rode, used by him during the band's video and is depicted on the cover art, is also for sale this November 19.

Auction Details

The projected worth from the event falls between $450K and $650K.

The group was revolutionary – they were one of the first bands employing synthesizers and they created music unlike anything prior.

Additional artists considered their music astonishing. They suddenly discovered this new pathway in music developed by the group. This motivated a lot of bands to explore synthesizer-based tunes.

Notable Pieces

• One voice modulator possibly employed by the band on their albums The Man Machine in 1978 and early '80s work could fetch $30,000 to $50,000.
• The portable EMS model believed to be employed in early work the famous record is appraised for $15K–$20K.
• The flute, a classic design that Schneider used alongside electronic gear until 1974, is valued at $8K–$10K.

Unique Belongings

For smaller budgets, an assortment with dozens of snapshots he captured featuring his wind collection can be bought for $100 to $200.

More unusual pieces, including a transparent, bright yellow acrylic guitar plus a distinctive fly sculpture, displayed on Schneider’s studio wall, have estimates of $200–$400.

The musician's green-lens sunglasses along with instant photos featuring the glasses are listed at $300–$500.

Family’s Words

He felt that instruments should be used and circulated – not sitting idle or remaining untouched. He hoped his equipment to go to people who would truly value them: musicians, collectors and those inspired by the art of sound.

Enduring Impact

Recalling Kraftwerk’s influence, an influential artist said: “From the early days, they inspired us. Autobahn was an album that had us take notice: what’s this?. They created something different … fresh sounds – they deliberately moved past earlier approaches.”