Korg MS-10 (1978)

Name: Korg MS-10
Brand: Korg
Availability: InStock

A compact analog monosynth from Korg’s foundational MS-series, built for raw sound creation with hands-on voltage control.

Overview

The Korg MS-10 is a no-frills, analog monosynth released in 1978 as part of Korg’s initial MS-series, which included the MS-10 and MS-20. Designed for musicians who wanted full control over sound creation, it delivers the aggressive, character-rich analog tone that defined early Korg synthesis. Unlike preset-heavy synths of the era, the MS-10 offers real-time editing via front-panel knobs and patch points, encouraging experimentation. It was positioned as an affordable alternative to more expensive American synths like those from Moog and ARP, helping bring patchable analog synthesis to a broader market. The MS-10 features a 32-key keyboard with full-sized synth-action keys, no touch sensitivity or aftertouch, and no built-in speakers. It runs on AC power and lacks MIDI, USB, audio input, or pedal connectors, focusing instead on core synthesis and external control via its voltage outputs.

Specifications

Product type	Analog monosynth
Production years	1978
Number of Keys	32
Key Weight	Synth
Key Size	Full
Touch Sensitive	no
Aftertouch	no
Polyphony	1
Sound Generation	Analog monophonic
Piano Sounds	no
Real World Sounds	no
Sounds Editable	no
Recorder/Sequencer	no
Tutorials	no
MIDI	no
USB	no
Tablet Connectivity	no
AC Power	yes
Batteries	no
Audio Out	yes
Audio In	no
Sustain Pedal	no
Soft Pedal	no
Expression Pedal	no
Manual controller	present
Control wheel output	-5V to +5V
Signal out output	present

Design

The MS-10 features a 32-key keyboard with full-sized, synth-action keys, no touch sensitivity, and no aftertouch. It is AC powered and contains no built-in speakers. The unit includes a manual controller with a control wheel capable of outputting -5V to +5V, and a signal out output for external modulation. A service manual with a structural diagram exists, confirming the internal layout.

Context

The MS-10 was part of Korg’s MS-series launched in 1978, alongside the MS-20, marking Korg’s continued push into the analog synthesizer market after the 1973 miniKORG 700. The series was designed for musicians who wanted to create and modify their own sounds, offering aggressive, characterful analog synthesis at prices lower than competing Moog and ARP instruments.