The Korg MS-20 is a legendary monophonic synthesizer that has been a staple in electronic music production since its release in 1978. Known for its raw, gritty sound and flexible patch bay, the MS-20 is a powerful tool for creating everything from deep basslines to screaming leads. After spending time with this iconic machine, I can confidently say it’s a must-have for any serious sound designer or musician. Here’s why.

Design and Build Quality

The MS-20 features a sleek and compact design that’s both functional and visually appealing. Its wooden side panels and metal chassis give it a vintage feel, while the front panel is packed with knobs, switches, and a patch bay. The layout is intuitive, with dedicated controls for oscillators, filters, envelopes, and more.

While the build quality is solid, some users may find the plastic knobs and switches less robust than higher-end gear. However, for its price point, the MS-20 feels well-made and reliable. The patch bay, in particular, is a standout feature, offering endless possibilities for sound design.

Sound Design Capabilities

At its core, the MS-20 is a sound designer’s dream. It features two oscillators, a filter, an envelope generator, an LFO, and a patch bay. This combination of components allows you to create a wide range of sounds, from deep basslines and screaming leads to experimental textures and effects.

The oscillators offer a variety of waveforms (sawtooth, square, triangle, and noise), giving you plenty of options for shaping your sound. The filter is one of the MS-20’s standout features, offering a resonant sweep that can add warmth or aggression to your sound. The envelope generator and LFO provide additional modulation options, allowing you to create dynamic and evolving sounds.

Patch Bay and Flexibility

The MS-20’s patch bay is where it truly shines. It allows you to connect different modules with patch cables, creating custom signal paths and unique sounds. This flexibility is one of the MS-20’s biggest strengths, offering endless possibilities for sound design.

Whether you’re patching the envelope generator to the oscillators for dynamic pitch changes or patching the LFO to the filter for rhythmic sweeps, the MS-20’s patch bay allows you to explore new sonic territories. The patch bay also includes an external signal processor, allowing you to process external audio sources (e.g., guitars, drum machines) through the MS-20’s filter and envelope generator.

Workflow and Usability

One of the MS-20’s biggest strengths is its intuitive workflow. The hands-on controls and straightforward layout make it easy to create sounds and tweak parameters on the fly. The patch bay, while initially intimidating, is easy to learn and offers endless possibilities for experimentation.

The MS-20 also includes a built-in keyboard, making it easy to play and test sounds. While the keyboard is not velocity-sensitive, it’s responsive and comfortable to play. The MS-20’s compact size and portability make it a great choice for both studio production and live performances.

Who Is It For?

The MS-20 is ideal for sound designers and musicians who want a versatile and powerful monophonic synthesizer. Its combination of raw analog tone, flexible patch bay, and hands-on controls make it a great choice for beginners and experienced users alike.

Pros

  • Affordable and widely available.
  • Intuitive, hands-on controls.
  • Raw, gritty analog sound.
  • Flexible patch bay for endless sound design possibilities.
  • Compact and portable design.

Cons

  • Plastic knobs and switches may feel less durable.
  • Monophonic, meaning it can only play one note at a time.
  • Patch bay can be intimidating for beginners.

Final Thoughts

The Korg MS-20 is a timeless monophonic synthesizer that continues to inspire musicians and sound designers over four decades after its release. Its combination of raw analog tone, flexible patch bay, and hands-on controls make it a powerful and fun tool for creating unique and expressive sounds. Whether you’re crafting deep basslines, screaming leads, or experimental textures, the MS-20 is a tool that will inspire your creativity.

If you’re looking for a monophonic synthesizer with a unique sound and endless possibilities, the Korg MS-20 is worth checking out. It’s not just a piece of gear—it’s a gateway to creativity.

Rating: 9/10
A classic synthesizer that delivers raw analog tone and endless sound design possibilities.