Tags: Keyboard synthesisers

Notes: Korg's MS-20 monophonic synthesizer, first introduced in 1978, is still a coveted instrument to this day, thanks to its thick, robust sound, its powerful, iconic analog filter, and its versatile patching options. Over 300,000 people have enjoyed the distinct MS-20 sounds from the original, from Korg's MS-20 plugin synth, or the iMS-20 iPad app.

Today, the sounds of the MS-20 have been reborn in hardware, as the MS-20 Mini. The same engineers who developed the original MS-20 have perfectly reproduced its circuitry and fit into a body that's been shrunk to 86% of the original size, yet retains the distinctive look of the original.

The MS-20 mini will amaze you with its absolutely authentic analog synth sound.

The Korg MS-20 Mini features 2 improved lower noise voltage controlled oscillators with selectable waveforms including ring modulation and noise, 2 voltage controlled high and low pass filters, 2 voltage controlled amplifiers, 2 envelope generators and an LFO. Part of the appeal of the original was its self oscillating, resonant filters that could be driven into distortion. They remain popular to this day and can also be found in the recent monotron and monotribe units as well as on the new MS-20 Mini.

Part of the versatility of the original Korg MS-20 was its flexible patching system, making it semi modular, and this has been recreated for the MS-20 Mini. It allows users to create uniquely complex, evolving, organic sounds by using patch cables to access and change the internal synth architecture, with the front panel flow chart guiding easy operation straight out of the box. Users can even patch external sources via the external signal processor to be processed in the same way as an oscillator, as well as benefitting from the rich harmonics added by the circuitry and filters.

This reissue of a modern classic will be an extremely welcome addition to Korg's current synth line and, with fantastic sound, versatility and ease of use, the MS-20 Mini is sure to win over many fans old and new.

Notes: One of our favourite synths of 2019 and still amazing value. Analogue meets digital, offering hugely versatile sound in the same compact, user-friendly format as the original Minilogue.

Supplier's notes:
An evolved next-generation analogue synthesizer with huge potential for sound design and performance. We wanted to deliver a next-generation analogue synthesizer for a new generation of musicians new to analogue synthesis. That dream was realized in the development of the minilogue, which instantly made the analogue synthesizer approachable.

In addition to emphasizing the same real analogue sound and joy of controlling an electronic musical instrument offered by the original minilogue, the minilogue xd newly adds a digital multi-engine, effects, a powered-up sequencer, and micro tuning functionality, further expanding the possibilities for sound design and performance potential. Minilogue xd is a fitting addition to the original groundbreaking minilogue.

Four-voice polyphonic analogue synthesis. The analogue synthesizer circuit of the minilogue, whose genuine analogue sound had a huge impact on the synth world, has been further developed for the minilogue xd.

Voice structure of minilogue xd is 2VCO + MULTI ENGINE, 1VCF, 2EG, 1VCA, and 1LFO. In addition to the distinctive circuits found in the series, such as wave shaping to shape the overtones of the oscillator and a sync/ring switch, there's also cross modulation, a sharp two-pole filter, and a drive switch that adds thickness and drives signal into minilogue xd's filter. Every parameter has been tuned in detail based on what musicians want out of their synth. The sounds range from the warm pads typical of analogue to fat basses and crisp lead sounds, covering every situation.

Of course, programs that you create can also be saved in the unit. Out of the box, minilogue xd comes loaded with 200 presets, and a total of 500 programs can be saved.

Equipped with a digital multi-engine:

The additional sound design possibilities of digital sound are delivered by the multi-engine that's provided as a third oscillator in addition to the two analogue VCOs. This engine, which is equipped with three different types of sound generator (noise, VPM, and user slot) lets you take advantage of a sonic character that's different than analogue, and use it at the same time as the analogue engine, infinitely expanding the potential of hybrid sound design.
Noise generator

The noise generator provides four types of noise that are indispensable for percussive sounds or for sound effects. You can use the digital filter to directly change the colour of the noise.

VPM oscillator:

minilogue xd's multi-engine features a VPM (Variable Phase Modulation)/FM oscillator with a two-operator structure. It can produce sharp, metallic sounds with complex overtones beyond the possibilities offered by analogue systems. With 16 types of oscillator and a SHAPE knob control, you'll be able to create complex sounds intuitively.

User oscillators:

User oscillators allow you to load your own oscillator programs that you created or obtained via the internet. There are 16 user slots, as well as one type of morphing wavetable oscillator provided as a preset.

High-quality digital effects:

minilogue xd's high-quality digital effects use 32-bit floating point DSP processing, adding a finishing touch to its deep sound design platform. The three types (modulation effects, reverb, and delay) can be used simultaneously, letting you choose from a wide range of variations including chorus, ensemble, warm tape delay, and a diverse variety of reverb. The user effect slots allow you to load your own effect programs that you've created.

User customization brings out infinite potential:

The minilogue xd features a customizable open environment. The unit comes with 16 user oscillator slots and 16 user effect slots that you can customize. Oscillators and user programs that you've created with the SDK (Software Development Kit) can be loaded into the minilogue xd via the dedicated librarian software.

Polyphonic step sequencer controlled by 16 buttons:

The step sequencer provides 16 steps, and supports both realtime recording and step recording. You can use the 16 step buttons to select a step directly, allowing quick editing to replace the pitch of a step or to mute it, or even improvisatory performances. Motion sequence lets you record the movements of up to four knobs, adding time-varying change to the sound, and you can record not only smooth changes in value but also values that change precisely at each step. You can use this to design the sound differently at each step; for example, you might create a drum pattern or sound effect from just a single program. This allows countless ideas to be unleashed.

Notes: A smaller, more affordable version of the excellent Hydrasynth Keyboard. Advanced wavetable synthesis with 8-voice polyphony, hands-on control and an excellent keybed with polyphonic aftertouch.

*** New 2.0 Firmware update for all Hydrasynth models - March 2023 ***

This is a free of charge update for all current and new users of Hydrasynth. The biggest news in this update includes:
Expanded memory to 8 banks (Keyboard, Desktop, and Explorer only)
NEW modulation source: VOICE MODULATOR
OSC Bit reducer
LFO quantizer
ENV quantizer
LFO Step Advance
Global FX bypass
Increased Vibrato resolution
New Sustain pedal options including Sostenuto
More LED options
Glissando in glide options
Arp Range goes to 6 octaves
Arp Step Offset parameter
More Rand/Init shortcuts (all STEP LFO steps, Wavescan waves, Voice mod offsets)
Local On/Off saved
......And more!
This is the first major update to the Hydrasynth family in a little, which adds a tonne of new features.


Supplier's Notes:
The ASM Hydrasynth Explorer takes the now legendary Hydrasynth into new territories. The Hydrasynth Explorer offers the same 8-voice sound engine as the Hydrasynth Keyboard and Desktop, but in a compact and portable battery powered form factor. The 37-note mid-sized PolyTouchr keybed features polyphonic aftertouch, offering great playability and expression but in a reduced footprint. The extremely deep yet easy to use sound engine features the famous WaveScan oscillators, Mutator waveshaping, flexible dual Filter section, 32-slot modulation matrix, and dual Insert and dual Master effects allowing a lifetime of sonic explorations. The CV/GATE outputs provides for easy integration with equipment such as modular synthesizers and the USB MIDI and full-sized MIDI DIN connectors takes care of standard connectivity without the need for special cables. The ASM Hydrasynth Explorer can also be powered by 8xAA batteries for true on-the-go mobile operation. Simply put, this is one very powerful compact-sized synthesizer and controller all-in-one for the modern musician.

Tech Specs

Type: Polyphonic Wave Morphing Synthesizer
Sound Engine Type(s): Wavescan
Analog/Digital: Digital
Number of Keys: 37 mid-sized keys
Type of Keys:ASM POLYTOUCH Polyphonic Aftertouch Keyboard, On/Off Velocity-sensitive
Other Controllers: Pitch Bend, Mod Wheel
Polyphony: 8 voices
Number of Presets: 640
Oscillators: 3 x Wavescan oscillators (219 Waveforms), 4 x Mutator wave shapers (8 Types), Noise (7 Types)
Mutators: 8 Types (FM-Lin, WaveStack, PW-Orig, PW-Squeeze, PW-ASM, Harmonic Sweep, Hard Sync, PhazDiff)
Noise: 7 Types (White, Pink, Brown, Red, Blue, Violet, Grey)
LFO: 5 per Voice (Sine, Triangle, Saw Up, Saw Down, Square, Pulse27%, Pulse13%, S&H, Noise, Random, Step), Tempo syncable, Semitone Lock
Envelopes: 5 per voice, Tempo syncable, Variable trigger sources
Filter Types: 1 Multimode Filter (16 types) and 1 Variable LP-BP/Notch-HP filter, series or parallel routing
Filters: Filter 1 (LP Ldr12, LP Ldr24, LP Fat12, LP Fat24, LP Gate, LP MS20, HP MS20, LP 3-Ler, BP 3-Ler, HP 3-Ler, LP Stn12, BP Stn12, HP Stn12, LP 1 Pole, LP 8 Pole, Vowel), Filter 2 (LP-BP-HP, LP-Notch-HP)
Effects: 9 Insert Effects, 5 Delays, 4 Reverbs.
Effects Types: Chorus, Flanger, Rotary, Phaser, Lo-Fi, Tremolo, EQ, Compressor, Distortion, Delay, Reverb
Arpeggiator: 8 types (Up, Down, Up&Down, Up/Down, Order, Random, Chord, Phrase)
Other: Mod Matrix (32 slots), Macro Controllers (8), Favorites (32), Randomizer (Patch and Module), MPE Compatibility, Warm Mode, Microtuning
Audio Outputs: 2 x 1/4" Balanced (L/Mono, R)
Headphones: 1 x 1/4"
USB: 1 x Type B
MIDI I/O: In/Out
Pedal Inputs: 1 x 1/4" (sustain)
Other Outputs: 5 x 1/8" Outputs (CV, Gate, Mod1, Mod2, Clock)
Power Supply: 12V DC switchable power supply
Height: 2.28" / 5.8cm
Width: 21.81" / 55.4cm
Depth: 9.72" / 24.7cm
Weight: 7.63lbs / 3.46kg
MPN: HSMK

Notes: Updated version of Korg's excellent Wavestate, drawing on the iconic Wavestation synth to create a modern take on wavetable synthesis, now with added polyphony.

Supplier's Notes:
Wavestate mkII

Extended polyphony. Extended possibilities.

Korg's legendary Wavestation introduced the world to wave sequencing, and the 37-key Wavestate mkII builds on that legacy with a reimagined, compact synth designed to satisfy today's demanding musicians and producers. MkII expands polyphony to 96 stereo voices and adds a fresh look. It's completely compatible with sounds and samples for the original Wavestate.

Overview

Korg's legendary Wavestation introduced the world to Wave Sequencing, transforming raw samples into sounds that no-one had ever heard before. The flagship OASYS, Kronos and Nautilus keyboards developed Wave Sequencing even further, expanding on its unique palette of lush, evolving pads and driving rhythms.

Now, Korg is proud to present the new Wavestate mkII, with improved polyphony (96 stereo voices) and a fresh look. It's completely compatible with sounds and samples for both the original Wavestate, Wavestate SE and Wavestate Native software, including many excellent third-party libraries. Updated sounds and software keep it fresh and the compact form-factor, with 37 full-size keys, still transports easily and fits neatly into any stage, studio, or desktop setup.

Keyboard: 37-keys, velocity sensative
Sound generation: Wave Sequencing 2.0
Polyphony: 96 stereo voices
Configuration: Performance: 4 layers, reverb, EQ
Layers: Program, Arpeggiator, Key, and Velocity Zones
Programs: Wave Sequence, Filter, Amp, Pre FX, Mod FX, Delay
Presets: 261 Performances,799 Programs, and 1042 Wave Sequences
Controllers: MOD wheel, PITCH wheel, Vector Joystick, 8 x program/Performance Mod knobs.
Effects: Pre FX x4, Mod FX x4, Delay x4, Reverb, Performance EQ

Inputs/outputs:

Audio Outputs L/MONO, R (6.3mm TRS phone jack, impedance balanced)
Headphones (6.3mm stereo phone jack)
Damper (6.3mm phone jack)
MIDI in,out
USB Type B

Power: AC adapter (DC12V, 2500mA)
Power consumption 5w
Dimensions: 565 W x 338 (D x 92 (H mm
Weight: 2.9kg

Notes: Second-gen version of the excellent Opsix features major updates including 64-voice polyphony and an improved interface. Same powerful six-operator FM synth engine.

Supplier's Notes:
A Full-Spectrum Sound Experience

Opsix mk II is a digital synth like no other. Based on the sound engine of the original Opsix, the number of simultaneous voices and voicings has been expanded to an astounding 64 voices. The result is superior performance and precise control.

The Opsix Operator Mixer simplified FM synthesis for the first time, making it not just comprehensible but also controllable. With the addition of extra synthesis capabilities and programming, it offered a more efficient workflow and an even richer sound.

And, it is fully compatible with the sounds and samples from both the original opsix and the opsix Native software, including numerous high-quality libraries.

Evolved to an astounding 64 voices

The Opsix mk II has 64 voices, twice as many as the original 32 voices, allowing users to enjoy tone editing without having to worry about the number of simultaneous voices. In addition, the operator-mixer section, the most distinctive feature of this product, has been accented with a new image colour, green.

Get Illuminated with the Operator Mixer

At the heart of every sound is Opsix mk II's Operator Mixer - a simple set of six faders and knobs that invite exploration. Each part lights up red to indicate carriers or blue for modulators. Manipulating them opens up new sound-shaping possibilities to breathe fresh life into your musical ideas. This straightforward, hands-on workflow is part of what makes Opsix mk II so unique, just like the sounds it offers.

Direct Hands-On Control

Whether you're tweaking a preset or building a patch from the ground up, the six data entry knobs on the right give you quick access to the parameters you need and seamlessly sync with the large OLED display, giving you a clear, focused direction to your workflow. Coupled with the mixer, it makes creating fresh sounds super easy and, most importantly, fun!

Select from a full range of analogue-style filters, from the radical Korg MS-20 low-pass/high-pass filter to the powerful yet smooth KORG Polysix low-pass filter that gives your sound a vintage feel. There are also two or four-pole low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, and band-reject filters with resonance.

There's even a built-in spectrum analyser and oscilloscope that gives you visual feedback via the screen on the music you're making.

Six in One Synthesis

The core of Opsix mk II is nothing short of exponential. Since waveforms can be arranged and modulated in nearly infinite ways, Opsix mk II can easily do the sonic work that is similar to numerous types of synthesis:

Subtractive

Removing parts of the sound to get the sound you want; the most widely-used synthesis. Opsix mk II uses up to six envelopes and multi-modelled filters to achieve many cutting-edge and classical analogue synthesis tones.

Semi-Modular

Rerouting signal paths to change the sound. A spin through the Algorithm section will dramatically reshape the sound by changing how the signal routing between the operators work together, and no patch cables are needed. Analog-style controls and plenty of stackable waveforms take you from digital to analogue-sounding in no time. Enjoy deep basses, crisp leads, thick pad sounds, fuzzy brass tones, and so much more.

Analogue (Modeling)

Analogue-style controls and plenty of stackable waveforms take you from digital to analogue-sounding in no time. Enjoy deep basses, crisp leads, thick pad sounds, fuzzy brass tones, and so much more.

Waveshaping

Adding intentional distortion to the waveforms to achieve aggressive overtones that are either harmonic or inharmonic. This will help you achieve gritty, bitey tones dripping with character.

Additive

Stacking waveforms and blending their harmonics is key to an expansive range of harmonious, dissonant, and tension-driven sounds. With six operators available, the complete FM experience is possible, including the ability to go back in time for classic sounds you have heard throughout recording history.

Classic FM

Last but certainly not least, Opsix's highly flexible and powerful architecture starts with true six-Operator FM. As a result, it easily delivers signature sounds you have surely heard on thousands of hits from the '80s on through today, and with far more polyphony than other standalone FM synths available today.

With all of these ways to realize and explore sounds, Opsix mk II is uniquely suited as a "future-modern-classic" synth!

Altered Reality

What started as a legacy synthesis has evolved into something completely different. Opsix mk II is FM-based, but the similarities to the classic synthesis end there. The Altered FM architecture delivers sounds across a vast spectrum, far wider than any single synthesis has been able to cover before, thanks to new sound components; new waveforms, filters, shaping, effects, LFOs, envelopes, modulations, and more, all translating to its broad assortment of sounds.

Powerful Effects Processing

Opsix mk II provides three blocks of 30 types of high-definition effects that you can use together to enhance your sounds even further. There's everything from a great mix of usable standard effects like chorus, phaser, delay, and compressor to some world-class shimmering reverbs that will elevate your sound to the next level.

Specifications

Keyboard: 37 keys (velocity and release-velocity sensitive)
Sound generating system: Altered FM sound generator
Maximum Polyphony: 64 voices (varies depending on the setting)
Structure: 6 operators, 1 filter, 3 EGs, 3 LFOs, 3 effects, step sequencer, arpeggiator
Algorithm: 40 presets + user algorithm (unique to each program)
Operator: 6 modes (FM, Ring Mod., Filter, Filter FM, Wave Folder, Effect)
Oscillator waveform: 23 waveforms (Sine, Sine 12bit, Sine 8bit, Triangle, Saw, Saw HD, Square, Square HD, Additive Saw3, Additive Sqr3, Additive Tri3, Additive 12345, Additive 1+2, Additive 1+3, Additive 1+4, Additive 1+5, Additive 1+6, Additive 1+7, Additive 1+8, Noise S/H, Noise White, Noise Pink, Noise Blue)
Filter: 11 types (LPF 12, LPF 24, LPF MS-20, LPF POLY6, HPF 12, HPF 24, HPF MS-20, BPF 6, BPF 12, BRF 6, BRF 12)
EG: ADSR
LFO: 23 waveforms (Triangle, Saw Down, Saw Up, Square, Sine, Sample&Hold, Guitar, Exp. Triangle, Exp. Saw Down, Exp. Saw Up, Step4 Triangle, Step6 Triangle, Step4 Saw Down, Step6 Saw Down, StepRnd:Time, StepRnd:Lvl&Time, StepRnd:Level, Random:Time, Random:Lvl&Time, Triangle + , Saw Down + , Saw Up + , Square +)
V.Patch: 12 routings
Effect: 30 types (Chorus, Unison Ensemble, Phaser, Phaser (BPM) , Auto Pan, Auto Pan (BPM), Flanger, Flanger (BPM) , Rotary Speaker, Auto Wah, Exciter, Enhancer, LFO Filter, 3-Band EQ, Distortion, Guitar Amp, Decimator, Grain Shifter, Master Limiter, Compressor, Delay, Delay (BPM) , Autopan Dly, Autopan Dly (BPM), Tape Echo, Tape Echo (BPM) , Early Reflection, Reverb, Shimmer Reverb, Spring Reverb)
Sequencer: Step Sequencer (up to 16 steps, up to 6 notes per step), Motion Sequencer (up to 6 lanes)
Arpeggiator: 7 patterns (MANUAL, UP, DOWN, ALT1, ALT2, RANDOM, TRIGGER)
Number of programs: 500 (350 preset programs and 150 user programs as the factory-set default)
Favourite: 64 (16 Slots × 4 Banks)
Controllers: MODULATION wheel, PITCH wheel, RATIO OP 1-6 knobs, LEVEL OP 1-6 sliders, DATA ENTRY A-F knobs
Inputs/outputs: Headphone (6.3 mm stereo phone jack), OUTPUT L/MONO and R (impedance-balanced 6.3 mm TRS phone jacks), DAMPER (6.3 mm phone jack, half-damper not supported), MIDI IN and OUT connectors, USB B port
Power supply: AC adapter (DC12V)
Power consumption: 5 W
Dimensions (W × D × H): 565 × 338 × 90 mm / 22.24" × 13.31" × 3.54"
Weight: 2.9 kg / 6.93 lbs.
Included items: AC adapter
Accessories (sold separately): DS-1H damper pedal, PS-1 pedal switch, PS-3 pedal switch

Notes: The next generation of Moog analogue synths, the Messenger draws on iconic designs of the past and introduces modern features which bring it right up to date. Affordable, top quality stuff from a legendary brand.

Supplier's notes:
A new method of sonic experimentation, communication, and connection has arrived. Say hello to Messenger, a next-generation analog synthesizer that celebrates classic Moog circuitry and introduces modern features to shape the future of sound design.

Messenger is a new Moog monophonic analog keyboard synthesiser designed for the electronic musicians, producers, sound designers, sonic tinkerers, and analog dreamers of today and tomorrow. Engineered to open new portals of art and expression through sound, the instrument is ready to be a trusted creative companion for any musical genre or style at any point in your synthesis journey.

If you're new to synthesis, welcome. You're exactly where you need to be. Messenger's intuitive layout with clearly labeled controls invites immediate hands-on exploration and encourages a deeper understanding of how to shape and sculpt sound. For experienced synthesists and sound designers, Messenger is packed full of innovative twists on beloved analog circuitry, blending the iconic, raw Moog sound with flexible, modern features designed for use on stage or in the studio. This synthesiser has two oscillators with wavefolding functionality, a sub-oscillator with continuously variable waveshapes, dual looping ADSR envelopes, 32 semi-weighted full-size keys with velocity and aftertouch, and the legendary Moog ladder filter augmented with resonance bass compensation, multiple filter slopes, and true multimode functionality. Messenger's 256 on-board presets allow for immediate saving and recall of your favorite sounds. An intuitive arpeggiator and expression/sustain pedal inputs make this an indispensable live tool, while its unique sequencer with probabilistic controls and modular connectivity set Messenger up to be at the core of your studio or home setup.

Craft soaring leads and deep, rumbling basses. Create delicately textured pads and flowing arpeggios. Build beats with custom kicks, snares, and toms. Explore dense drones and inharmonic metallics. Pay attention to how these sounds impact the way you hear the world around you.

Timeless and Intuitive: Messenger builds on the DNA of Moog's most iconic and prolific monosynths - Minimoog Model D, Voyager, Grandmother, Subsequent 37 - and puts a new spin on a familiar format with innovative circuits and timeless analog sound.

A Legend Reborn: The legendary Moog transistor ladder filter gets some new tricks up its sleeve. A unique pole-mixing design allows the ladder filter to preserve bass frequencies as resonance is increased via the RES BASS switch while keeping its sonic legacy intact. Low-pass mode adds a 2-pole filter slope in addition to the classic Moog 4-pole low-pass filter slope.

Inspiration at Your Fingertips: 32 full-size semi-weighted keys with velocity and aftertouch, a robust metal panel, 256 presets, and knob-per-function controls mean Messenger is endlessly playable and ready to bring to your next gig.

Compositional Powerhouse: Effortlessly record sequences of up to 64 steps, integrate chance operations, and introduce random fluctuations and parameter recording. Experiment with a plethora of arpeggiator patterns and cascade notes into infinity.

Sound Design and Modulation Playground: Two loopable ADSR envelopes, two LFOs, and expanded frequency and audio rate modulation options via Oscillator 2 provide a wealth of modulation options and deeper assignable possibilities.

Comprehensive Connectivity: Messenger integrates seamlessly into any studio or live setup with six analog control voltage (CV) patch points, an external audio input to the filter, expression and sustain pedal inputs, and 5-pin DIN MIDI in/out as well as MIDI over USB-C.

Notes: Combining analogue-style sound with digital convenience, the KingKorg Neo is a proper all-rounder for both recording and live performance. Features modelled emulations of classic Korg synth features.

Supplier's Notes:
The KingKORG NEO: a virtual analogue synthesiser that stands out with its analogue-like layout and intuitive, flexible editing. This compact powerhouse features 37 full-size keys and a versatile vocoder, making it perfect for both studio and stage. With our cutting-edge XMT sound engine, it delivers a wide range of classic and futuristic sounds. Designed for the contemporary musician, the KingKORG NEO is the ultimate tool for exploring new soundscapes and pushing musical expression.

KingKORG NEO features our XMT virtual analogue sound engine. XMT stands for eXpanded Modelling Technology and was created to offer an expansive array of sounds while ensuring simplicity in operation.

Gone are the days of laborious oscillator adjustments for sound crafting. The KingKORG NEO streamlines this process with pre-set algorithms. These carefully designed combinations of different oscillator types and quantities empower you to quickly shape rich, stage-ready tones with ease.

Embracing the demand for diverse tonal capabilities, the KingKORG NEO comes loaded with a wide range of oscillator algorithms. From the classic sawtooth and square waves to the more intricate noise patterns typical of analogue synthesizers, and extending to PCM/DWGS, this synthesiser is equipped to cater to an extensive variety of musical needs and preferences.

Crafting character with iconic modelled filters

In the heart of the KingKORG NEO lies its meticulously designed filter section, a cornerstone in defining the synthesiser's unique sonic character. Korg have infused KingKORG NEO with a diverse range of filters, each adding a distinct flavour to your sound creations, an aspect where analogue modelling truly shines.

The KingKORG NEO's filter collection is a treasure trove for sound designers. It encompasses a wide array of essential analogue modelling filter types, enabling you to sculpt sounds with precision and ease. But there's more. Korg have painstakingly modelled filters that echo the iconic analogue monophonic synths of the '70s - the go-to for punchy leads and deep basses. Korg have also captured the essence of polyphonic synths from the vibrant new wave era of the '80s, and the legendary filters from Korg's own MS-20 analogue synth.

One of the most captivating features of these filters is their ability to self-oscillate when you dial up the resonance - a hallmark of classic analogue synthesis. This capability opens up a world of sonic possibilities, from creating ethereal textures to crafting powerful, resonant tones.

Vocoder wizardry

KingKORG NEO synth comes equipped with a balanced XLR input on its front panel, and includes a rugged, high-quality microphone. This setup invites you to dive into the world of vocoding instantly.

At the core of the KingKORG NEO's vocoder is a sophisticated 16-band filter, rivalling dedicated vocoder machines. This powerful feature allows you to craft classic vocoder tones, but that's just the beginning. By shifting the filter frequency with the formant shift function and finely adjusting the level and pan of each band, you open the doors to an array of unique and original sounds. Whether you're aiming for vintage charm or contemporary edge, this vocoder adapts effortlessly to any genre or style.

But there's more - the KingKORG NEO redefines flexibility. Timbre B can ingeniously be used as a modulator, providing an alternative to the traditional microphone input. This allows the vocoder effect to be seamlessly blended with the synth sound, paving the way for limitless sonic exploration.

Moreover, each of the three oscillators, A and B timbres, can be individually selected as a source for the microphone input. This unique feature enables you to synthesize a rich mix of voice and instrument, creating a fusion of timbres that's both innovative and captivating.

Masterful effects

The KingKORG NEO elevates your sound with three master effect slots, each offering six distinct effect types.

The PRE FX slot brings the grit and edge of effects like distortion and amp simulator. MOD FX infuses your tracks with the classic charm of phaser, chorus, and tremolo. For creating expansive atmospheres, the REV/DELAY slot offers ambient effects including hall reverb and modulation delay. Adjusting and selecting these effects is straightforward, thanks to dedicated dials on the front panel for each slot, complemented by FX control knobs for detailed fine-tuning.

Virtual patching

Embrace the spirit of classic synthesisers like the MS-20 with the KingKORG NEO's innovative Virtual Patch system. This intuitive feature brings the flexibility of physically patching synthesizers into the digital age. With six Virtual Patch assignments available for each timbre, you can virtually connect control signals like EG, LFO, or joystick movements to key sound parameters, including pitch and cutoff. This seamless integration allows for intricate modulation and a deeper exploration into sound-shaping, giving your music a new dimension of sonic creativity.

A universe of inspiration

KingKORG NEO's extensive library of 200 stage-ready preset programs is created for the modern music maker. These presets span across eight categories like SYNTH, LEAD, and BASS and offer an intuitive gateway to finding the perfect sound for any scenario.

Step up with arpeggiation

The KingKORG NEO comes equipped with a versatile step arpeggiator, a tool that breathes life into your performances by automatically generating arpeggio phrases based on the chords you play. Tailor your sound even further by selecting from six different arpeggio types. You can specify the duration, interval, and on/off status of each step, opening up a vast array of rhythmic possibilities.

Specifications

Keyboard: 37 keys (velocity and release-velocity sensitive)
Sound generating system: XMT (eXpanded Modeling Technology)
Maximum Polyphony: 24 voices
Timbres: Max. 2 timbres (Layer / Split)

Oscillator
Structure: 3 oscillators (choose from analog, noise, DWGS, PCM, and MIC IN types)
Number of types: 138 types (32 analog and noise, 40 DWGS, 65 PCM, 1 MIC IN

Filter
Structure: 1 filter (choose from LPF, HPF, BPF)
Number of types: 18 types (7 LPF, 5 HPF, 6 BPF)

Modulation
Structure: EG 2 units, LFO 2 units
Routing: Virtual patches 6 set

Effect
Sections: Program effects x 3 (PRE FX, MOD FX, REV/DELAY) + EQ (2Band)

Types:
PRE FX: 6 types (DISTORTION, DECIMATOR, RING MOD, GT.AMP, EP.AMP, TONE)
MOD FX: 6 types (FLANGER, CHORUS, U-VIBE, TREMOLO, PHASER, ROTARY) REV/DELAY: 6 types (HALL, ROOM, PLATE, TAPE ECHO, MOD DELAY, BPM DELAY)

Vocoder: 16-band vocoder, formant shift function, formant hold function
Arpeggiator: Up to 8 steps (number of steps can be changed), 6 types (UP/DOWN/ALT1/ALT2/RANDOM/ TRIGGER)

Programs
Number of programs: 300 programs (200 preset / 100 user)
Number of categories: 8 categories

Displays
Main: 16 x 2 character OLED display
OSCILLATOR, FILTER: 128 x 64 pixel OLED display

Audio

Mic input
Connector: XLR type (balanced)
L/MONO,R output
Connectors: 6.3mm TS phone jacks (Unbalanced)

Headphone output
Connector: 6.3mm (1/4") stereo phone jack
DAMPER (half-damper not supported)
SWITCH/PEDAL
MIDI IN/OUT
USB B connector

Power Supply: AC adapter jack (DC12V)
Power consumption: 9W
Dimensions (W x D x H)@ 565 x 338 x 92 mm / 22.24" x 13.31 " x 3.62
Weight: 3.1kg / 6.83 lbs.
Included items: AC Adapter, Vocoder mic (+ windscreen)
Accessories (sold separately): XVP-20: Expression/volume pedal, EXP-2: Foot controller, DS-1H: Damper pedal, PS-1, PS-3: Pedal switch