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Average Price: $328
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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
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Is the Korg MS-10 suitable for creating bass sounds?
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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.
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What kind of synthesis does the Korg MS-10 use?
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The Korg MS-10 employs analog subtractive synthesis, which allows users to shape sounds using its VCO, VCF, VCA, and EG components.
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How many keys does the Korg MS-10 have, and what is their size?
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The Korg MS-10 features 32 full-size keys, providing a comfortable playing experience for synthesizer enthusiasts.
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Is the Korg MS-10 polyphonic?
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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.
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Does the Korg MS-10 have a patch panel?
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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.).
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional bass quality, powerful and deep
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Unique sonic range: fat, rich, textured, punchy
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Pulse-width modulation offers distinct sounds
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Versatile: produces everything from screaming leads to solid sub tones
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Semi-modular with a fun, clunky patch bay
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Strong personality in LFO and filter sounds
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Easy to use, even for beginners
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Durable for live performances
CONS
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Only one oscillator, limiting sound complexity
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Lack of memory for sound storage
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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
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The MS-10 has a simpler patchbay than the MS-20 Mini, making it potentially less overwhelming for beginners learning synthesis basics.
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The MS-20 Mini is preferred by some over vintage models due to its built-in MIDI adapter and comparable sound quality.
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The Behringer K-2 clone is noted for having both filter revisions, offering a more versatile sound than the MS-20 Mini.
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Features and functionality
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The MS-10's PWM is highlighted for its ability to modulate any patch freely, unlike the MS-20's more limited modulation options.
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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.
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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.
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Mods and upgrades
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Owners note that integrating Eurorack requires a conversion from Korg's Hz/Volt CV to Volt/Octave, a vital consideration for expansion.
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Setup and maintenance
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Vintage MS-10 units may require upkeep, such as knob repairs and addressing drift, which can be challenging for those unskilled in electronics.
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Use cases and applications
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The MS-20 Mini is capable of drum synthesis, offering additional versatility compared to the MS-10.
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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.
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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.
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User experience
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The MS-10's filters are frequently described as "beasts," suggesting a strong and aggressive tonal character that can enhance electronic music styles.
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Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 5 Reviews and 29 Ratings
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
Viviankrist uses the Korg MS-10 synthesizer, as noted in her Bandcamp release, "Cold Sun."
Korg MS-10 is on the list of instruments used on "Water Park OST" on bandcamp.
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.
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.
“This machine 🤤”
The MS-10 can be seen in almost every video that features MM’s studio.
"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.
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.
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.
Community setups
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