Mutate the clones! Part One

Classic synths are coveted for a number of reasons. Whether it be for their warm (or charmingly naive) vintage sound, beautiful aesthetics or unique workflows, the old adage applies; "They don't make 'em like they used to!"...

...Or maybe they do? ln this series of articles, we'll cover attempts to re-make classic synths in the here and now. In this article we examine designs that start off as clones, but end up as a mutations of the originals. Read on, dear viewer...

Michigan Synth Works MSW-830

Michigan Synth Work's MSW-810 is a faithful clone of the Roland CMU-810, a 1 VCO monosynth that offers a classic range of bass, lead and pluck sounds. It's clear that bigger things were planned for this design though. Teased for Autumn/Winter '24, the MSW-830 offers 3 VCO's with Sync & FM, digital waveforms, drive and multiple LFO's. All of this in addition to the 810's classic VCF/VCA signal path. I'm pretty excited for this one as the 810's tone forms a great foundation to build on. Check out the 810's heft in this Friday Fun video:

Korg MS20

The MS20 has so many special features. Brutal XOR ringmod, characterful dual LP/HP filters and the ESP pitch follower all add to it's legendary status. Korg have brought back the iconic 1978 monosynth several times - first in virtual form (with cute replica controller) and later, mini and full size versions. Two of the most interesting mutations, in my mind, are:

• The Korg MS20M (pictured) - This 2015 kit-based release, turned the MS20 into a keyboard-less desktop unit. The original MS20 had a few shortcomings compared to other monosynths, and the M sought to rectify these. Sync and FM were added between the two oscillators, and PWM added to VCO1! This puzzling omission was sometimes added by keen synth modders - and talking of modification, the M's lower panel features small domes where jacks could be drilled, if you feel that a feature is missing!
• The Korg MS20-EX is a virtual synth, included in both the Kronos & Nautilus range of workstations. I really enjoy this one, and I feel (alongside wave-sequencing and MOD7's FM adventures) it's a highlight of the instrument! Not only is this MS20 polyphonic with 6 envelopes and a load of LFO's, it offers individual VCO OUTS, great for filter FM! No it's not a traditional MS20, but the sound design you can do on this thing is wild!

Look out for more mutations soon!

Posted by MagicalSynthAdventure an expert in synthesis technology from last Century and Amiga enthusiast.

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