Korg's decision to revive the MS20 in the form of the MS20 mini at the 2013 NAMM show was welcomed by synth lovers across the globe. Finally, the classic had returned, and it even had MIDI on USB and 5-pin DIN. But for some, its smaller keyboard and minijack patch leads didn't quite hit the spot in the way that the original did.
So, at the NAMM show in January 2013, Korg announced that the MS20 was back… again. This time, though, it's the original size with a full-sized keyboard and 3.5-inch jack patch leads. The only catch is that you have to build it yourself. Thankfully, no soldering is required, and all the tools you'll need are included the kit, but you'll need to be quick off the mark if you want one, as Korg are only planning to make about 1000.
Korg MS20 KitThe concept will, no doubt, intrigue circuit benders across the land, but for those without a penchant for the runny silver stuff, the DIY system still has its advantages. Korg give the user the option of two different filter types: the one used in the first batch of MS20s or the slightly warmer filter that was used on later revisions of the synth.
The kit is available now for pre-order and should ship in June for $1399, which is around the price you might expect to pay for a second-hand original MS20, but with the added bonus of having MIDI control.
Check out our review of the MS20 mini from May 2013 here: http://sosm.ag/may13-ms20
