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As a innovator of electronic music with the group the German electronic band transformed popular music while inspiring musicians including Bowie, New Order, Coldplay, and Run-DMC.

Now, his synth gear along with devices utilized by the musician for producing some of the band’s best-known songs throughout two decades may bring in hundreds of thousands of dollars when they are sold at auction next month.

Exclusive Preview of Final Personal Work

Recordings for a solo project he had been creating just before he died after a cancer diagnosis aged 73 two years ago is being shared for the first time via footage promoting the sale.

Wide Array from His Possessions

Together with his portable synth, his wind instrument and robotic voice devices – that he employed to make his voice sound like a robot – collectors have the opportunity to acquire around five hundred items from his estate at the auction.

These include his collection over a hundred musical wind tools, several snapshots, his shades, his travel document he used while touring before 1979 and Volkswagen vehicle, painted in a gray hue.

The bike he rode, used by him for the Tour de France clip and is depicted on the cover art, is also for sale on 19 November.

Sale Information

The total estimated value for the auction falls between $450K and $650K.

The group was revolutionary – as pioneers with electronic gear crafting compositions unlike anything prior.

Fellow musicians viewed their songs incredible. They suddenly discovered this new pathway for compositions pioneered by the band. It inspired numerous artists to explore of using synthesised electronic music.

Featured Lots

• An effects unit possibly utilized on albums on their albums from the late '70s plus later releases may go for $30,000 to $50,000.
• A suitcase synthesizer likely utilized in early work Autobahn has an estimate of a mid-range sum.
• His wind instrument, an Orsi G alto that Schneider used alongside electronic gear until 1974, is valued at up to five figures.

Distinctive Objects

Among the lowest-priced items, a group with dozens of snapshots Schneider took of his woodwind and brass instruments is on sale at a low estimate.

More unusual pieces, such as a see-through, vibrant yellow instrument and an unusual insect replica, placed in his workspace, may go for $200–$400.

His framed eyewear with green lenses and Polaroid photographs featuring the glasses could sell for under $500.

Estate’s Statement

His view was that instruments should be used and enjoyed by others – not left unused or collecting dust. He hoped his instruments to find their way to people that will cherish them: musicians, collectors and fans by the art of sound.

Ongoing Legacy

Considering Kraftwerk’s influence, an influential artist commented: “From the early days, we were fans. Autobahn was an album that had us pay attention: what’s this?. They were doing something different … fresh sounds – they intentionally avoided the past.”