Michigan Synth Works MSW-820S Analog Synthesizer Desktop
The Michigan Synth Works MSW-820S is a compact desktop analog monophonic synthesizer built around a powerful dual-oscillator subtractive architecture. Two AS3340-based VCOs provide pulse and sawtooth waveforms across 16', 8' and 4' ranges, with pulse-width modulation, oscillator sync, reset options and dedicated modulation routing. A sub oscillator, external audio input and multi-model digital noise generator expand the available sound sources, giving the instrument a broad palette for basses, leads, drones, percussion and experimental textures.
At the centre of the signal path is an AS3109-based voltage-controlled filter offering 16 filter modes, including low-pass, high-pass, band-pass and all-pass responses. Cutoff covers approximately 10Hz to 20kHz, while resonance can be pushed into self-oscillation. Dedicated attenuverters allow the filter to be shaped from the modulation envelope, LFO, keyboard pitch or an external CV source, while audio-rate modulation from oscillator 1 adds another layer of harmonic complexity.
Modulation is handled by two ADSR envelopes and a digital LFO covering approximately 0.1Hz to 22Hz. Eight LFO waveforms can be selected and crossfaded, with reset, phase and delay functions for everything from conventional vibrato to rhythmic and evolving modulation. Portamento and two accent modes provide additional performance control.
The desktop format integrates easily into both MIDI and modular setups. TRS MIDI and USB MIDI are supported alongside clock, gate, V/Oct, external CV, secondary VCA CV and audio connections. USB-C provides both power and computer connectivity, making the MSW-820S equally suited to a standalone desktop rig, a DAW-based studio or a larger analog system.
Key Features
- Desktop analog monophonic synthesizer
- Two AS3340-based analog VCOs
- Pulse and sawtooth waveforms
- 16', 8' and 4' oscillator ranges with seven-octave span
- Pulse-width modulation with manual, envelope and LFO control
- Multiple hard-sync and oscillator-reset modes
- Sub oscillator and external audio input
- Digital noise generator with eight noise models
- AS3109-based 16-mode analog VCF
- Low-pass, high-pass, band-pass and all-pass filter responses
- Filter resonance up to self-oscillation
- Audio-rate filter modulation from oscillator 1
- Two ADSR envelope generators
- Digital LFO with eight waveforms and 0.1Hz–22Hz range
- LFO sync, reset, phase and delay functions
- Portamento and two accent modes
- Secondary VCA for external signals
- TRS MIDI and USB MIDI connectivity
- V/Oct, gate, clock and external CV inputs
- Audio input and synth/mix output
- USB-C 5V power and data connection
- Compact 220 × 120 × 50mm desktop enclosure