When I bought my first synthesizer, a Korg MS-20 Mini, I was stoked to get my hands on a “vintage” synth and to learn all about sound synthesis. But there was one thing that bothered me; the esthetics. I’ve seen so many MS20’s with wooden end cheeks that this was a missing quintessential feature for me.
I’ve searched the internet for companies that craft such sides, but they where either too sketchy, too expensive, or just not good enough. After looking for a while I decided to go to a furniture maker in Amsterdam to craft the wooden sides for me. While I was happy with the end result I knew it could be better. So I started my own carpentry shop, especially for synth wood.
I’ve learned about the machines and hand tools I’ve acquired, about the types of wood and their characteristics, how to use finishes, even the screw types and sizes. After about two years I was ready to start making my first professional end product. New, overhauled walnut side panels for the synth where it all started; my Korg MS-20 Mini.