Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $330
Budget/Beginner
$500
$1501+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
Meet the Korg MS-10, a spectacular monophonic semi-modular synthesizer that commands respect within its category. Often seen as the MS-20's compact sibling, this instrument proudly flaunts the same low-pass filter found in the pioneering MS20's first generation. Despite its modest size, the MS-10 is far from basic. Its semi-modular patching system, a key feature of the MS-20, permits you to modify the signal flow, thereby unlocking an array of sound and routing options uncommonly found in analogue mono-synths of its era.
Key Features:
- Compact monophonic semi-modular synthesizer
- Features low-pass filter identical to the first generation MS20
- Equipped with one VCO, LFO, and VCA
- Semi-modular patching system allows redirection of signal flow
- Offers wide range of sound and routing possibilities
Product specs
| Brand | Korg |
| Model | MS-10 |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 1970s |
| Categories | Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths |
| Analog / Digital | Analog |
| Key Size | Full Size |
| Keyboard Action | Synth Action |
| Number of Keys | 32 Keys |
| Polyphony | 1 Voice |
FAQs
-
Is the Korg MS-10 suitable for creating bass sounds?
-
Yes, the Korg MS-10 is highly regarded for its ability to produce deep, rich bass sounds, thanks to its monophonic analog design and versatile patch panel.
-
What kind of synthesis does the Korg MS-10 use?
-
The Korg MS-10 employs analog subtractive synthesis, which allows users to shape sounds using its VCO, VCF, VCA, and EG components.
-
How many keys does the Korg MS-10 have, and what is their size?
-
The Korg MS-10 features 32 full-size keys, providing a comfortable playing experience for synthesizer enthusiasts.
-
Is the Korg MS-10 polyphonic?
-
No, the Korg MS-10 is a monophonic synthesizer, meaning it can only play one note at a time, which is ideal for lead lines and bass sounds.
-
Does the Korg MS-10 have a patch panel?
-
Yes, the Korg MS-10 includes a patch panel, which allows for a wide range of sound modulation and experimentation by rerouting signal paths.
Videos
LOOK MUM NO COMPUTER
The KORG MS10 IS THE BEST SYNTH.. better than the MS20 (in my opinion :O.).
The KORG MS10 IS THE BEST SYNTH.. better than the MS20 (in my opinion :O.).
LOOK MUM NO COMPUTER
KORG MS-10 Analog Synthesizer 1978 | HQ DEMO
AnalogAudio1
Korg MS-10
PERSON:A
KORG MS-10 TUTORIAL AND OVERVIEW
once upon a synth
KORG MS-10 + SQ-1 ~ Will They Pair? Ep.25
once upon a synth
First Patch - Korg MS-10 | Red Bull Music Academy
Red Bull Music Academy
Korg MS-10
rimela
DEMO KORG MS10 SYNTHESIZER
PianoVintage
Reviews
PROS
-
Exceptional bass quality, powerful and deep
-
Unique sonic range: fat, rich, textured, punchy
-
Pulse-width modulation offers distinct sounds
-
Versatile: produces everything from screaming leads to solid sub tones
-
Semi-modular with a fun, clunky patch bay
-
Strong personality in LFO and filter sounds
-
Easy to use, even for beginners
-
Durable for live performances
CONS
-
Only one oscillator, limiting sound complexity
-
Lack of memory for sound storage
-
Requires high-quality recording gear to capture full sound fidelity
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Korg MS-10.
Comparisons
-
The MS-10 has a simpler patchbay than the MS-20 Mini, making it potentially less overwhelming for beginners learning synthesis basics.
Source -
The MS-20 Mini is preferred by some over vintage models due to its built-in MIDI adapter and comparable sound quality.
Source -
The Behringer K-2 clone is noted for having both filter revisions, offering a more versatile sound than the MS-20 Mini.
Source
Features and functionality
-
The MS-10's PWM is highlighted for its ability to modulate any patch freely, unlike the MS-20's more limited modulation options.
Source -
Connecting the keyboard CV out to Cutoff Frequency and cranking the resonance provides a powerful bass sound, with the cutoff dial acting as the master tune.
Source -
The MS-20 full-size reissue provides better keys and lower noise levels compared to the MS-20 Mini, though at a significantly higher price.
Source
Mods and upgrades
-
Owners note that integrating Eurorack requires a conversion from Korg's Hz/Volt CV to Volt/Octave, a vital consideration for expansion.
Source
Setup and maintenance
-
Vintage MS-10 units may require upkeep, such as knob repairs and addressing drift, which can be challenging for those unskilled in electronics.
Source
Use cases and applications
-
The MS-20 Mini is capable of drum synthesis, offering additional versatility compared to the MS-10.
Source -
The MS-10 is highly praised for its powerful and punchy sound compared to the MS-20, making it ideal for users seeking a robust audio experience.
Source -
The MS-20 is praised for its feedback potential, allowing unique sound creation when the phones are patched through the ESP back into the filter or oscillator FM.
Source
User experience
-
The MS-10's filters are frequently described as "beasts," suggesting a strong and aggressive tonal character that can enhance electronic music styles.
Source
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 5 Reviews and 29 Ratings
.jpg?v=1780633310)
492
Toughest filter!
This was my first professional analog synth. I got the MS10 back in 2017 as a gift , and I use it at almost any chance I get because of it's ability to link the lfo selection the the pwm on the patchbay (something the MS20 lacks) , and its tough growling korg 35 filter . It's got the classic korg sound , it can make a wide variety of sounds even with a single oscillator , and it's extremely easy to use . If your looking for a reasonably priced retro monosynth the korg MS10 is the way to go !
58
One of the best
One of the best synth I know. It can do deep bass lines, screaming leads, effects, and it's really great if you use the patch bay. The LFO, the filter have a strong personality. Even if there's only one VCO, it's huge! I will never sell it. Its the one I used on my "Ghost planet" album.
Big Brother
Think Dr. Who and/or Dr. Dre. For some reason this synth is a Go See The Doctor firm favorite. Also blessed by Dr. Stevie Wonder when he played North Sea Jazz and borrowed my MS10 and 20..
1963
Korg MS-10
One of my favorite synths of all time because its fast to work wioth and it sounds amazing
Under-powered by today's standards, but still shines
Gigged with one for 10 years. Wouldn't trade it for the world.
Artist usage
Add artist
"Frusciante extensively used his Clavia Nord Lead 2, a Casio SK-1, and the Akai MPC3000 on the album To Record Only Water for Ten Days. Other electronic instruments used during Frusciante's recent recording spree include a Chamberlain, a Moog Voyager, an Arp String Ensemble, a Korg MS10, and a late-1970s Synare analog drum synthesizer."
In a user-uploaded photo on Polymathperspective, Damon Albarn's Korg MS-10 is visible next to an SQ-10, illustrating his use of this synthesizer.
In an article on Kreativsound, Tom Rowlands of The Chemical Brothers discusses their pursuit of unique sounds, mentioning their use of the Korg MS-10 synthesizer in the studio.
Autechre said in an interview, "We still have quite a bit of analogue gear and we still use it. It's just there, it's part of what we do, like the 202, the Roland SH2, or Korg MS10 and MS20, real cheap basic techno stuff from the time we were into acid house and dirty sounds.".
Moderat posted this picture to their facebook, in which a Korg MS 10 can be seen.
The Korg MS 10 is featured in the "Studio Equipment List" on Vince Clarke's website.
I also have an old Korg MS10 which is falling apart. I use it mostly for bass and if there's some rhythmic stuff. And of course, that filter is just the best filter ever made.
In the YouTube video by Produce Like A Pro, Junkie XL is seen with a Korg MS-10 synthesizer on the table, highlighting its role in his setup.
you can see the Korg MS-10 clearly around 0:18-0:19 (based on the button lay-out there is no doubt that this is a MS-10)
"Basically everything we’ve used we practically still have here. So it’s a list too long to go into. There is a wall alone that is the orginal setup of Skinny Puppy, based around a pair of Roland TR-808’s, Roland TR-909 with trigs going to many differnat devices including Sequential Circuits Pro One, Roland System 100m, ElectroComp Eml 101, Korg SQ-10, Korg MS-20, Korg MS-10, ARP 2500 and ARP 2600."
Album Usage
The Korg MS-10 has been featured on the following albums:
Insects (Remember When)
Viviankrist (2020)
III
Dusty Kid (2016)
Water Park (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)
Dirty Beaches & Dirty Beaches (2013)
In Rainbows
Radiohead (2007)
To Record Only Water For Ten Days (U.S. Version)
John Frusciante (2001)
Eple
Röyksopp & Röyksopp (2001)
69 Love Songs
The Magnetic Fields (1999)
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Korg MS-10, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
-s.webp?v=1781881207)
-s.webp?v=1781881206)
-s.webp?v=1781794884)
-s.webp?v=1781881212)
Community setups
Show yours
More Korg Synthesizers
$469.00 - $799.99
in Synthesizers Rank
$411.00 - $699.99
in Synthesizers Rank
$385.00 - $538.00
in Synthesizers Rank
$199.99 - $749.99
in Synthesizers Rank
$496.32 - $899.99
in Synthesizers Rank
$29.95 - $69.99
in Synthesizers Rank
.jpg?v=1781851929)
-m.webp?v=1781881418)
$425.00 - $749.99
in Synthesizers Rank
-m.webp?v=1781881207)
$119.99 - $159.99
in Synthesizers Rank
$277.00 - $449.99
in Synthesizers Rank
.jpeg?v=1781768408)
$115.00
in Synthesizers Rank
$247.00 - $449.99
in Synthesizers Rank
$124.95
in Synthesizers Rank
$42.04 - $99.99
in Synthesizers Rank
$42.00 - $69.99
in Synthesizers Rank
$15.00
in Synthesizers Rank
$444.00 - $749.99
in Synthesizers Rank
-m.webp?v=1781708326)
.jpeg?v=1781738401)
-m.webp?v=1781881207)
$1,995.00 - $3,399.99
$468.00 - $839.00
-m.webp?v=1781453079)
-m.webp?v=1781881728)
$1,290.00 - $1,699.99
$77.00 - $119.99
$1,100.00 - $4,199.99
Accessories & Related Items
-s.webp?v=1781881207)
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Synthesizers
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
richardsalayGear IQ 149
-
