KORG MS-20 Analog Synthesizer Manual

Official documentation for the KORG MS-20 analog synthesizer.

Introduction

The KORG MS-20 is a legendary semi-modular analog synthesizer, originally released in 1978. It is renowned for its distinctive sound, flexible patching capabilities, and intuitive interface, making it a favorite among musicians and sound designers for decades.

Key Features

Dual VCOs (Voltage Controlled Oscillators) for rich sound generation.
VCF (Voltage Controlled Filter) with selectable 12dB/octave and 24dB/octave slopes.
VCA (Voltage Controlled Amplifier) for shaping amplitude.
Two Envelope Generators (ADSR-like) and an LFO (Low Frequency Oscillator).
Patch bay for extensive external signal routing and modulation.
Built-in ESP (External Signal Processor) for processing external audio.
Distinctive analog sound character.

Specifications

Note: Specific specifications may vary slightly between original and reissue models. This section provides general specifications typical of the MS-20.

Parameter	Description
Polyphony	Monophonic
Oscillators	2 x VCO (VCO-1: Sawtooth, Square, Pulse Width Modulation; VCO-2: Sawtooth, Triangle, Square, Pulse Width Modulation)
Filter	1 x VCF (Low-pass/High-pass, 12dB/oct or 24dB/oct slope)
Envelope Generators	2 x EG (ADSR-like)
LFO	1 x LFO (Triangle, Square)
External Signal Processor (ESP)	Yes (Input gain, Pitch Follower, Envelope Follower)
Patch Bay	Yes (36 patch points)
Connections	Audio Output, Headphone Output, MIDI In/Out, External Signal Input, Control Voltage In/Out (Pitch, Filter Cutoff, Amplifier Level, Gate, Trigger)
Power	AC Adapter (specific voltage/current depends on model)

Controls and Functions

The MS-20 features a comprehensive panel of knobs and switches for sound shaping. Key sections include:

VCO Section: Controls for tuning, waveform selection, and pulse width modulation.
VCF Section: Controls for cutoff frequency, resonance, and envelope modulation depth. Selectable filter slope (12dB/24dB).
VCA Section: Controls for envelope modulation depth and level.
EG (Envelope Generator) Sections: Controls for Attack, Decay, Sustain, and Release times.
LFO Section: Controls for LFO rate and waveform selection.
Modulation Section: Controls for assigning modulation sources (e.g., LFO, EG) to parameters like pitch, filter, and amplifier.
Patch Bay: A matrix of jacks for connecting internal modules or external equipment, allowing for advanced sound design and signal routing.
ESP Section: Inputs for external audio and controls for processing it through the synthesizer's filters and envelopes.

Connections

The rear panel provides various connection options:

Audio Output: For connecting to mixers or audio interfaces.
Headphone Output: For monitoring.
MIDI In/Out: For connecting with other MIDI-compatible devices.
External Signal Input: For the ESP section.
Control Voltage (CV) and Gate/Trigger Jacks: A comprehensive set of jacks for modular synthesis and interfacing with other CV/Gate gear. These include jacks for controlling pitch, filter cutoff, amplifier level, and triggering envelopes.

Basic Operation

To create a sound:

Connect the audio output to a speaker or mixer.
Adjust the VCO controls to set the basic tone.
Shape the sound's evolution using the VCF and VCA controls, and the EG sections.
Use the LFO for vibrato or filter sweeps.
Explore the patch bay for advanced sound design and modulation possibilities.

Safety and Maintenance

Always refer to the specific model's manual for detailed safety instructions and maintenance procedures. Ensure proper ventilation and use only the specified power adapter.

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