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RE-MPG-80 Rack Ears for the Roland MPG-80

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This has been a long and frustrating wait as ever since I launched my RE-MKS-70 and RE-MKS-80 replacement rack ears, I’ve had enquiries to make similar kits for other products, so I’m pleased to announce my RE-MPG-80 rack ears for the Roland MPG-80.

RE-MPG-80 replacement rack ears for the Roland MPG-80
RE-MPG-80 replacement rack ears for the Roland MPG-80, mounted to my new machine!

I bought my MKS-80 off my employer, Roland (UK), in 1989. Even with staff discount, this thing was quite expensive and when you consider that I’m actually a guitarist, the purchase was even more questionable. Ah well…

RE-MPG-80 replacement rack ears for the Roland MPG-80
I'm really happy with these replacement rack ears. They look stunning.

Prior to computer editors, let alone third-party controllers like the Retroaktiv MPG-8X, why on earth then, didn’t I also purchase a MPG-80 at the same time? Sex, drugs and rock ‘n’ roll? Who knows?

So, thirty-two years later, a lovely customer of mine who recently acquired a Retroaktiv MPG-8X, put up his Roland MPG-80 for sale. I made Dan an offer which he conditionally accepted, the condition being that I service his latest acquisition; a Roland SH-101. Well, I said I'd have to think about it... for like five seconds, LOL and then we shook hands. 🙂 You can read all about Dan's SH-101 service, here.

Dan’s MPG-80 was pristine and had been serviced before he bought it. Hence my keenness to grab this particular example. I now have a hardware controller for my beloved MKS-80 but… more importantly, I have rack ears! YAY!!!! I can now design a pair of rack ears for this box and keep some of my customers happy.

Just like the originals, my RE-MPG-80 rack ears for the Roland MPG-80, are made of 2mm mild steel and are powder coated with a lush, matt black finish. They fit perfectly and look great. I’m really happy with what Lenton Engineering has produced.

RE-MPG-80 replacement rack ears for the Roland MPG-80
A perfect fit and the finish is just great!

Supplied with black M5 machine screws, all you need is a pozidrive screwdriver, to get these fitted to your own MPG-80 in a couple of minutes.

RE-MPG-80 replacement rack ears kit
Of course, you get the rack ears but also included are four fixing screws that seem much 'blacker' than the originals.

The number of MPG-80s and indeed MKS-80s, on the planet is shrinking, so the market for custom replacement parts and upgrades is inclined to follow a similar path. I therefore only get things like the RE-MPG-80 rack ears, made in small batches.

Plasma Music Limited -

I'm deeply concerned about the environment and the exploitation of labour and so  I always use local manufacturers in preference to the Far East, with the following in mind:

  1. I can be confident that workers are treated fairly and earn a proper wage.
  2. I can be confident of the standard of quality of each item that is delivered to me.
  3. Communication is important and using local manufacturers, all correspondence is quick and understandable.
  4. I believe in supporting the local economy.
  5. I can be confident that the disposal of manufacturing waste is managed properly and in accordance with national and EU law.

Plasma Music uses local manufacturers

Using local manufacturers isn’t the cheapest option but the above points are important to me. I hope that they’re important to you too.