Hohner MSE-1 - Synthesizer Module - Black - Fair

Hohner MSE-1 - Synthesizer Module - Black - Fair Why This One

• Fair condition — a fully working unit at a great price
• Rare 1984 Japanese MIDI expander with built-in drum machine and 30 tones.
• A genuinely scarce early MIDI module that commands strong collector interest.

Condition: Fair

This Hohner MSE-1 is a fair-condition item. This unit has not been functionally tested by our team. Note: The unit's base moves around considerably due to missing screws. Please review all photos carefully, as they provide an accurate representation of the cosmetic condition of the product.

What's Included

• Hohner MSE-1 (Black)
• No additional accessories included

About This Model

The Hohner MSE-1 is a rare digital sound module released in 1984 and manufactured in Japan, functionally identical to the Casio CSM-1. It is a desktop expander with no built-in keyboard, designed to be driven via MIDI from an external controller. The synthesis engine offers 30 tones, 20 rhythms, and over 30 drum sounds, with 3-voice polyphony across programmable slots plus a dedicated fourth channel for drums — making it multitimbral and capable of syncing its drum patterns to MIDI clock. Outputs include stereo line out (L/R) alongside MIDI In, Out, and Thru. Separate volume sliders give real-time control over individual channels. It runs on batteries or 9V DC, making it portable as well as studio-friendly. Users have dubbed it an "Alien Groovebox" for its distinctly odd and characterful sounds — a fitting description for one of the more obscure desktop modules of the early MIDI era.

A great opportunity to own a Hohner MSE-1 at this price point.