The title compound, C30H34O8, crystallizes in the space group P-1 with one-half of a molecule in the asymmetric unit. A three-dimensional network is generated by OCH3...pi and CH...pi interactions. The conformation of the C-C bond exocyclic to the central benzene ring is different from that of every other known derivative. A comparison of the geometry of the title molecule and of its solid-state structure with other 2,4,6-trimethoxy-substituted PPV [i.e. poly(p-phenylenevinylene)] oligomers, in particular the isopropoxy-substituted compound, is provided.