Korg MS-20 designer to lead Behringer synth research centre

Behringer have hired Hiroaki Nishijima, designer of the original Korg MS-20, to lead their new synth development centre in Japan. Their vision is to build a large research and development centre in Tokyo where talented engineers will focus on creating flagship synths, samplers and other innovations.

“I reached out to Uli Behringer because I wanted to be part of his mission and help Behringer design world-class musical instruments," says Hiroaki Nishijima. “This is my dream, too. These days, it’s difficult for current Japanese companies to create the types of synths that I used to develop.”

The news that Behringer wants to sign up Japan’s top synth design talent may raise eyebrows at Korg and Roland, with Uli Behringer talking bullishly about his plans: “Behringer is on a mission to bring back classic synthesisers as well as design completely new instruments and make them available at prices everyone can afford.” He’s looking to recruit experienced synth designers from all over the world, asking them to contact him directly if they wish to join his “mission”.