PS-20 by Cherry Audio synth plugin interface

PS-20: Analog-Style MS-20 Tribute Synth by Cherry Audio

Rated 4.7/5 on Plugin Boutique (659 ratings)

PS-20 is a polyphonic virtual synthesizer from Cherry Audio that models the filters and modular-style patch panel of the Korg MS-20. It runs as a VST3, VST2, AU, AAX or standalone plugin on Windows and macOS.

VST3VST2AUAAXStandaloneWindowsmacOS64-bit
AVAILABLE ATPlugin Boutique
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01Overview

PS-20 is Cherry Audio's tribute to the Korg MS-20, a semi-modular synth known for its aggressive filter sound. The plugin focuses on the filters, reproducing the classic highpass and lowpass responses in detail. It also reworks the original patch panel, adding patch points and a cabling system, and expands the instrument with 16-voice polyphony, a sequencer and built-in effects. The developer describes it as one of the most unusual instruments in its catalog, where unpredictable filter behavior and flexible routing invite experimentation.

Best for

  • Acid basslines
  • Squelchy lead sounds
  • Experimental sound design
  • Modular-style patching
  • Tempo-synced sequences
Developer
Cherry Audio
Category
Synths
Store
Plugin Boutique
02Key features

What you get

  • Modeled MS-style highpass and lowpass filters for the MS-20 sound
  • Up to 16-voice polyphony with random voice panning
  • Three-channel, eight-step sequencer with tempo sync
  • Expanded patch panel with Voltage Modular cabling system
  • External signal processor section with normalled sidechain input
  • Tempo-syncable modulation generator
  • Unison detune for thick leads and basses
  • MPE support and full DAW automation
  • Distortion, reverb and modulation echo effects included
  • Four selectable interface colour themes
03In depth

Filters and Sound Character

The core of PS-20 is its pair of MS-style filters, a highpass and a lowpass modeled to match the character of the original MS-20. The filters are the main source of the synth's gritty, squelchy tone, and they respond strongly to resonance and modulation.

The synth offers up to 16 voices of polyphony, with random voice panning available for wider stereo layouts. Unison detune can thicken leads and basses, and MPE support lets expressive controllers shape notes in more detail.

Patch Panel, Sequencer and Effects

PS-20 keeps the modular spirit of the MS-20 with an expanded, simplified patch panel. Cherry Audio adds in and out points for oscillators, filters and VCAs, and the cabling system is based on the next-generation design from Voltage Modular. An external signal processor section with a normalled sidechain input adds further routing options.

A three-channel, eight-step sequencer with a 1/2-step quantizer and tempo sync drives the patches, and a tempo-syncable modulation generator adds movement. Built-in distortion, studio-quality reverb and modulation echo with tempo sync complete the signal chain. Full MIDI control and DAW automation cover all controls.

04Specs

Will it run?

Formats, systems and requirements as listed by Plugin Boutique. Missing details are left out, not guessed.

DeveloperCherry Audio
TypePlugin
CategorySynth
FormatsVST3, VST2, AU, AAX, Standalone
Operating systemsWindows, macOS
Architecture64-bit
05FAQ

Questions, answered

What is PS-20 based on?

PS-20 is a tribute to the Korg MS-20. Cherry Audio models its MS-style highpass and lowpass filters and reworks its patch panel.

What formats and operating systems does PS-20 support?

PS-20 is available in VST3, VST2, AU, AAX and Standalone formats. It runs on Windows and macOS and requires a 64-bit system.

What do I need to run PS-20?

PS-20 runs as a standalone application or as a plugin inside a compatible DAW. Cherry Audio recommends a quad-core processor and 8GB of RAM.

07Developer

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