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Average Price: $328

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$500

$1501+

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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.

positive
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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 Helen Marnie uses Korg MS-10

Helen Marnie

Music Producer

Ladytron

...
Verified via Ladytronmusic

Seen at the right of the first picture

See how Stephin Merritt uses Korg MS-10

Stephin Merritt

Singer, Guitarist

The Magnetic Fields

...
Verified via Discogs

Stephin is credited using this equipment in the liner notes for 69 Love Songs.

See how Viviankrist uses Korg MS-10

Viviankrist

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via BandCamp

Viviankrist uses the Korg MS-10 synthesizer, as noted in her Bandcamp release, "Cold Sun."

See how Dirty Beaches uses Korg MS-10

Dirty Beaches

Dirty Beaches

...
Verified via Bandcamp

Korg MS-10 is on the list of instruments used on "Water Park OST" on bandcamp.

See how Anthony Marinelli uses Korg MS-10

Anthony Marinelli

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

This synthesizer is right beside Anthony Marinelli's MS-20. Although he rarely uses the MS-10 in any of his videos, it still can be seen right beside the MS-20, such as in this YouTube video of Anthony Marinelli showcasing a synth bass tutorial, wherein he uses an MS-20 as a demo.

See how Maarten Vandervleuten uses Korg MS-10

Maarten Vandervleuten

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified

In an interview published in the magazine Interface (january 2010) Maarten Vander Vleuten is shown sitting in his studio with his gear, including the Korg MS-10.

See how Alex Banks uses Korg MS-10

Alex Banks

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

His MS-10 can be seen at 0:40

See how Memorex Memories uses Korg MS-10

Memorex Memories

Keyboardist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

“This machine 🤤”

The MS-10 can be seen in almost every video that features MM’s studio.

See how Fabian Del Priore uses Korg MS-10

Fabian Del Priore

Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

"We used Chris' music studio equipment, which were synths and samplers like Kurzweil K2000RS, Roland JV1080, Korg 01R/W, Korg Wavestation A/D, Akai S1000, Emu Ultraproteus, Ensoniq SQ80, Ensoniq VFX, Korg MS10, Oberheim Matrix 1000, Quasimidi Quasar, Roland JD 990, Waldorf Microwave, Yamaha SY77, Yamaha YS 100 and lots more, mixed on a Yamaha ProMix 01 and a Yamaha 02R digital mixing consoles. We loaded my GM midis into Chris' Cubase and from there it was easy to assign new sounds to the GM sounds. Eating pizza in Chris' studio too, awesome times to make game music! Thanks for your interest! :) Cheers, Fabian"

Can be find in the YT comments in the video link below.

R

Rocco Bell

Keyboardist

De Staat

...
Verified via YouTube

Rocco Bell often uses a Korg MS-10 as can be seen in this video at 3:31. Often placed above the Roland Juno-106. As with their Moog Sub-37, the backside is spray-painted black. Only the R is still visible.

D

Daniel Goldstein

Singer, Keyboardist

Solid Space

...
Verified via Discogs

The MS-10 was used in the recording of the song Contemplation.

See how Caramel Chameleon uses Korg MS-10

Caramel Chameleon

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Fangoradio

You can see the Korg MS10 in the bio picture of this music selection curated by Caramel Chameleon for Fango Radio

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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