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This innovator within synth-based sounds whose band the pioneering act redefined mainstream melodies and influenced musicians including Bowie, New Order, Coldplay, and Run-DMC.

Currently, the electronic equipment and performance items employed by Schneider for producing the group's famous compositions during the '70s and '80s are estimated to earn substantial bids as they go under the hammer at auction next month.

First Listen for Unreleased Solo Project

Compositions from an independent endeavor the artist was developing prior to his passing due to cancer aged 73 in 2020 is being shared initially in a video about the auction.

Vast Assortment of Personal Belongings

Alongside his suitcase synthesiser, his flute and his vocoders – utilized by him to make his voice sound like a robot – enthusiasts can try to acquire approximately 500 items from his estate through bidding.

These include his collection exceeding 100 wind and brass items, numerous Polaroid photographs, eyewear, his travel document used on tour before 1979 plus his custom van, which he custom-painted grey.

His Panasonic Panaracer bicycle, featured in Kraftwerk’s Tour de France music video also pictured in the release's graphics, will also go under the hammer on 19 November.

Sale Information

The total estimated value of the sale is $450,000 to $650,000.

The group was revolutionary – among the earliest acts that used synthesisers producing sounds entirely new to listeners.

Additional artists found their tracks astonishing. They suddenly discovered this new pathway within sound pioneered by the band. This motivated many acts to move in the direction of using synthesised electronic music.

Highlighted Items

• An effects unit probably the one Kraftwerk used in productions from the late '70s and early '80s work is expected to sell $30,000 to $50,000.
• The portable EMS model thought to be utilized for Autobahn Autobahn has an estimate of $15,000 to $20,000.
• The alto flute, an Orsi G alto played by him on stage with the synthesiser before moving on, carries an estimate of $8K–$10K.

Distinctive Objects

In the affordable range, a group with dozens of snapshots Schneider took of his woodwind and brass instruments is on sale for $100 to $200.

Additional unique items, like a clear, vibrant yellow instrument plus a distinctive insect replica, displayed in his workspace, are priced at a few hundred.

His framed green-lens sunglasses along with instant photos featuring the glasses could sell for $300 to $500.

Estate’s Statement

He always believed that gear deserves activity and circulated – not left unused or remaining untouched. He wanted his tools to go to individuals who appreciate them: performers, hobbyists and admirers by the art of sound.

Enduring Impact

Recalling the band's impact, a well-known drummer commented: Initially, we loved Kraftwerk. Their work that made us all take notice: this is new. They created something different … entirely original – they deliberately moved past previous styles.”