This is an analog synthesizer/sequencer. It sounds very much like the TB-303 and SH-101 bass synths. Sometimes considered the "poor man's 303". It has a very evolved form of TB-303 like programming (more like the MC-4) and SH-101 like controls of the VCO, VCF, VCA, LFO, Envelope and Mixer sections. The LCD display is a great feature too.

The MC-202 was sort of a next-generation TB-303. So the idea was to program sequence/patterns into it internally which would give you those 303 basslines that we've come to love. But programming the MC-202 is a bit too intense and over done for the simple monophonic bass line. However you can control it externally by hooking up a MID-CV/Gate converter. Then you basically have yourself an SH-101!

The sequencer is actually a 2-channel CV/gate sequencer, with both channels being capable of driving a separate external synth. It's a very useful unit, also, for its DINsync capabilities; it can receive on one port, and send over two, and also can 'split' DINsync to branch a sync signal out to multiple devices.

This machine is best for those who want to get 303-like patterns (it has accent just like the 303) and basslines with an SH-101 sound. If you can handle programming the notes into its sequencer you can have a lot of fun. It is used by Autechre, Future Sound Of London, Coldcut, The Human League, Underworld, Aphex Twin, LFO, Jedi Knights, Plastikman, Astral Projection, Sabres Of Paradise, Freddy Fresh, Jimmy Edgar, ProtoType 909 and Taylor 808.

Kritikon

July 18, 2012 @ 12:20 pm

A complete PITA to program, but the perfect bassline machine. Was used more than many think for Acid basses (the 303s weren't actually that bassy). I wish I'd bought one of those Kenton retrofits to bypass the CV input (as already mentioned - useless for external control as a standard unit. Won't track pitch for even an octave). Still, once you get your head around the tortuous programming (god knows what they were thinking when they designed it) it's one of the best fun bass machines around. I don't use it that often because of the PITA programming, but always enjoy it when I do.

cjb

July 2, 2012 @ 2:10 pm

Hey there,

Just got one of these, but having problems at the first hurdle. Every key on the machine is the exact same note and i cant work out how to get different notes out of it. Has anyone else had this problem or know how to get round it?

Thanks

alex

May 31, 2012 @ 9:36 am

i love to tweak that box its really fun to play

Jack Floyd

March 25, 2012 @ 3:14 pm

This guy was used by Peter John-Vetesse to sequence additional parts on Ian Anderson's "Walk Into Light" and Jethro Tull's "Under Wraps".

Stu

December 17, 2011 @ 6:51 am

The problem with controlling this synth via the cv/gate inputs is that there is a delay due to the signal passing through the sequencer section first - making it pretty useless to play in this way. Some companies do a mod which will bypass the sequencer to get round this.

Having said that - I love this little machine. Programming sequences is difficult to get your head around at first - but worth the effort.

You can get 303 style seq patterns - adding portamento to seq notes will make the 202 'bend' to that note, a distinctive feature of the 303 sound, but the 202 is more versatile.

<11109876543>

 

Post Comment!

Your Name: (Required.)

Email Address: (Required, not published.)

Image verification: (required)

Message:

 

Posting Rules:
Please keep your comments relevant! Do not post requests for help, do not use for sales, do not post unless you have something interesting to say about this instrument, or we may delete your post.

I have read and understand the posting rules.