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Kiwitechnics Patch Editor

My new Kiwitechnics Patch Editor

Working on vintage synthesisers means that a lot of the time, I have to create a 'test' patch and with so many instruments that come into the lab, it often gets quite challenging. So a few days I ago, I made the decision to buy something that would simplify my life; the Kiwitechnics Patch Editor.

This little box is as rare as well, something that's really rare and I was very lucky to find a pristine example on ebay UK. It was expensive but of course it was... because it's a rare (I just said that), it's mega cool and this one was like new (I just said that too). So I snapped it up.

At the moment, I have a Roland MKS-70 in, as well as a Roland MKS-80 and two Cheetah MS6s. To date, I've used PC editors to create test patches but what's available for the MS6 isn't great and the one that is, isn't compatible with Windows 11. 🙁 On top of that, I don't always want to switch on my PC, just to program a synthesiser module. Well now I don't have to. I can just plug in my new Kiwitechnics Patch Editor. Oh this is so cool.

Kiwitechnics Patch Editor and Friends
Just some of the synth modules I get in on a regular basis. The Kiwitechnics Patch Editor is going to make programming these so much easier.

Made from steel with illuminated controls and a large display (for old gits like me), the design, attention to detail and shear build quality of the Patch Editor, is incredibly professional. It feels like it's going to last a lifetime.

Controls that are active for the selected profile, illuminate with a menu option to turn down brightness. The rear panel has the usual complement of MIDI and power sockets, the latter taking 500mA at 9V - 12V DC, with centre pin negative on a 5.5mm x 2.5mm low-voltage barrel connector.

You'll also notice the 'EXT IN' jack socket which is a nice touch, allowing a foot controller for example, to be connected.

Kiwitechnics Patch Editor powered up

Murray at Kiwitechnics told me that Unfortunately, the Patch Editor was eventually discontinued because it just wasn't economically viable.  It's something I can relate to as I'm constantly struggling to keep the prices of the stuff I make, as low as possible.

Having said that, the Patch Editor is still very much supported. In fact, a CPU upgrade is available for older units providing the same power and profile storage capacity as those with newer serial numbers. Since mine is S/N 1045 (an early version), I've decided to buy the new Patch Editor Plus.

The Patch Editor originally retailed for 450 USD, exc. shipping. I bought mine for 525 GBP. Today's exchange rate makes that about 655 USD. It was second-hand but it's an amazing little box and in my humble opinion, worth every penny. Hey, don't forget... you're getting half-a-dozen programmers in one! I just wish there was a way to get Kiwitechnics to continue production of the Patch Editor and keep this ultra cool product out there. The vintage synthesiser world needs the Kiwitechnics Patch Editor!!!