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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.

LOOK MUM NO COMPUTER

LOOK MUM NO COMPUTER

The KORG MS10 IS THE BEST SYNTH.. better than the MS20 (in my opinion :O.).

Video thumbnail for The KORG MS10 IS THE BEST SYNTH.. better than the MS20 (in my opinion :O.). by LOOK MUM NO COMPUTER

The KORG MS10 IS THE BEST SYNTH.. better than the MS20 (in my opinion :O.).

LOOK MUM NO COMPUTER

LOOK MUM NO COMPUTER

Video thumbnail for KORG MS-10 Analog Synthesizer 1978 | HQ DEMO by AnalogAudio1

KORG MS-10 Analog Synthesizer 1978 | HQ DEMO

AnalogAudio1

AnalogAudio1

Video thumbnail for Korg MS-10 by PERSON:A

Korg MS-10

PERSON:A

PERSON:A

Video thumbnail for KORG MS-10 TUTORIAL AND OVERVIEW by once upon a synth

KORG MS-10 TUTORIAL AND OVERVIEW

once upon a synth

once upon a synth

Video thumbnail for KORG MS-10 + SQ-1 ~ Will They Pair? Ep.25 by once upon a synth

KORG MS-10 + SQ-1 ~ Will They Pair? Ep.25

once upon a synth

once upon a synth

Video thumbnail for First Patch - Korg MS-10 | Red Bull Music Academy by Red Bull Music Academy

First Patch - Korg MS-10 | Red Bull Music Academy

Red Bull Music Academy

Red Bull Music Academy

Video thumbnail for Korg MS-10 by rimela

Korg MS-10

rimela

rimela

Video thumbnail for DEMO KORG MS10 SYNTHESIZER by PianoVintage

DEMO KORG MS10 SYNTHESIZER

PianoVintage

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

Value and pricing

  • The MS-20 Mini is highlighted as offering 99% of the enjoyment of its full-size counterpart at a fraction of the cost.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Korg MS10 [Retrozone]

soundonsound.com

Korg's MS-10 is a retro gem for synth enthusiasts on a budget. Its patchable design and unique sound palette make it a flexible choice for analog lovers, especially those who cherish vintage synthesis. While lacking the dual oscillators of its sibling, the MS-20, the MS-10's single oscillator and 12dB/octave filter provide a distinct, European tonal character. It's not the warmest, but it excels in imitative synthesis. The patchbay offers creative modulation possibilities, but the single oscillator may limit its heft compared to pricier models like the Moog Rogue or Roland SH09. Overall, it's a versatile and cost-effective entry into analog synthesis, perfect for those willing to experiment and layer sounds.

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 5 Reviews and 29 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
abstractlion

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 !

From Gear Setup
zeka

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.

L

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..

rothhandlestudios

Korg MS-10

One of my favorite synths of all time because its fast to work wioth and it sounds amazing

Genres:
From Gear Setup
mattdennewitz

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
See how Digitalism uses Korg MS-10

Digitalism

Music Producer

...
Verified via Messed!Up

MS-10 can be seen at Messed Magazine's gallery of digitalism studio.

See how Shigeto uses Korg MS-10

Shigeto

Music Producer

...
Verified via Facebook

can be seen in this post from May 18, 2013

See how Nigel Godrich uses Korg MS-10

Nigel Godrich

Music Producer

Radiohead

...
Verified via Photo

Ed and Phil in Nigel’s “The Hospital” studio in late 2006, during the recording of In Rainbows. The synths on the left are an Analogue Systems The Spawn and Analogue Systems RS-15 rack (featuring an RS-200 Sequencer System and an RS-370 with RS-375 expander), a Korg MS-10, a Sequential Circuits Prophet 5, a PPG Wave 2.2/2.3, and an E-MU Emulator II. The synth on the right is an ARP 2600, which might belong to Thom or Jonny based on other photos from the recording of In Rainbows.

See how Fjaak uses Korg MS-10

Fjaak

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Photo

can be seen in this post from June 25, 2013

See how Leftfield uses Korg MS-10

Leftfield

Music Producer

...
Verified via Facebook

In a Facebook post by Leftfield, the Korg MS-10 synthesizer is featured, showcasing its use in their music production.

See how Daniel Avery uses Korg MS-10

Daniel Avery

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

"Everything filtered through this #theking," reads the caption to this Instagram post by Daniel Avery.

See how Dave Catching uses Korg MS-10

Dave Catching

Guitarist, Bassist

Queens of the Stone Age

...
Verified via Astonmics

Mentioned in the February 14, 2019 interview on Catching’s official Aston artist page.

And in my eyes Gary Numan definitely influenced everybody with his synth stuff including me - leading to the purchase of a KORG MS10 synth. I am pretty sure Gary Numan - and Devo - got me into weirdness…

See how Colin Newman uses Korg MS-10

Colin Newman

Singer, Guitarist

Wire

...
Verified via Wireviews

U: What is your current set-up? Are there any instruments that you've sold over the years but that you wish you'd kept?

CN: A G4, running Digidesign Pro Tools through 001. I get eighteen outputs to my Allen and Heath board. Lots of plug-ins. Hard disks full of various forms of audio. Otherwise, some guitars, a couple of MS10s and an old Casio synth. I don't sell equipment. Even though I have two samplers I never use anymore, there's no point in selling them.

See how Juan Atkins uses Korg MS-10

Juan Atkins

Music Producer

Kreem

...
Verified via MusicRadar

The Korg MS10 was incredible for weird, UFO-type sounds and effects. It was just a monophonic keyboard, so you couldn't even play chords on it. I would sit for hours on that MS10 just making sounds… I had a great time.

See how Étienne de Crécy uses Korg MS-10

Étienne de Crécy

Music Producer, DJ

Motorbass

...
Verified via YouTube

Etienne de Crecy's studio – 2012 5:05 "donc ce synthé-là c'est le MS-10, c'est un synthé KORG, un synthé assez légendaire" "here is the MS-10, from KORG, a quiet legendary synth"

See how Edwin Congreave uses Korg MS-10

Edwin Congreave

Keyboardist, Composer

Foals

...
Verified via Sourcedistribution

"One of the first ones we got was a Korg MS-10, which was surprisingly cheap at the time; they seem to be incredibly expensive now."

See how RAC uses Korg MS-10

RAC

Music Producer

RAC

...
Verified via Facebook

In a Facebook video, RAC showcases his gear, including the Korg MS-10, at the 1:26 mark.

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.

Community setups

Show yours
mokkamonkey

mokkamonkey

Gear IQ 270

rothhandlestudios

rothhandlestudios

Gear IQ 1963

abstractlion

abstractlion

Gear IQ 492

mokkamonkey

mokkamonkey

Gear IQ 270

mokkamonkey

mokkamonkey

Gear IQ 270

maarten_van_der_vleuten

maarten_van_der_vleuten

Gear IQ 109

audiac

audiac

Gear IQ 249

abstractlion

abstractlion

Gear IQ 492

abstractlion

abstractlion

Gear IQ 492

abstractlion

abstractlion

Gear IQ 492

A

alex1234

Gear IQ 65

rubenerre

rubenerre

Gear IQ 542

bubbajones

bubbajones

Gear IQ 1312

rubenerre

rubenerre

Gear IQ 542

bubbajones

bubbajones

Gear IQ 1312

audiac

audiac

Gear IQ 249

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