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He was innovator within synth-based sounds whose band the pioneering act redefined popular music and impacting performers from David Bowie and New Order to Coldplay and Run-DMC.

Presently, the musical tools and musical instruments utilized by the musician in crafting some of the band’s best-known songs in the 1970s and 1980s could fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars as they go under the hammer this coming month.

Rare Glimpse for Unreleased Personal Work

Music related to his own venture that Schneider was working on shortly before his death from cancer at 73 years old two years ago is available for the first time in a video about the auction.

Extensive Collection of His Items

Together with his portable synth, the wooden flute plus voice modulators – utilized by him to make his voice sound like a robot – collectors can try to buy approximately 500 of Schneider’s personal possessions through bidding.

Among them are his set over a hundred wind and brass items, many instant photos, his sunglasses, the passport he used while touring before 1979 and his VW panel van, which he custom-painted grey.

His cycling gear, which he rode during the band's video also pictured on the single’s artwork, will be auctioned on 19 November.

Sale Information

The total estimated value for the auction is $450,000 to $650,000.

They were innovators – as pioneers with electronic gear crafting compositions unlike anything prior.

Additional artists considered their music incredible. It revealed this new pathway for compositions developed by the group. It inspired many acts to move in the direction of using synthesised electronic music.

Highlighted Items

• One voice modulator that is likely the one Kraftwerk used in productions during their peak and early '80s work may go for $30,000 to $50,000.
• A suitcase synthesizer likely the one used in early work the famous record is valued at $15K–$20K.
• His wind instrument, a classic design featured in performances on stage with the synthesiser before moving on, is valued at $8K–$10K.

Distinctive Objects

In the affordable range, a collection of about 90 Polaroid photographs he captured of his woodwind and brass instruments is available at a low estimate.

Additional unique items, like a clear, vibrant yellow instrument and an unusual 16-inch model of a fly, which was mounted at his studio, may go for a few hundred.

His framed eyewear with green lenses along with instant photos of him wearing them are listed at $300 to $500.

Official Message

He felt that they are meant to be played and circulated – not left unused or gathering dust in storage. He hoped his equipment to be passed to individuals who appreciate them: artists, gatherers and those inspired by audio creativity.

Enduring Impact

Reflecting on Kraftwerk’s influence, one noted musician stated: Initially, they inspired us. Autobahn was an album that made us all take notice: this is new. They were doing innovative work … fresh sounds – they were consciously rejecting the past.”