THE MICROKORG

State-of-the-art analog modeling and multi-band vocoding are finally available in a compact, portable instrument. With 37 keys and 128 user-rewritable programs, the microKORG Synthesizer/Vocoder is perfect for the performer, producer, computer musician or beginner looking for an affordable synthesizer. The new microKORG delivers the quality sounds and features you expect from Korg at a price that will astound you.

Powerful Synthesis

The microKORG boasts the same dual-oscillator DSP synthesis engine found in Korg’s critically acclaimed MS2000 and offers a wider selection of waveforms than any other modeled synth. Oscillator 1 features a total of 71 waveforms . These include traditional analog waves like saw, pulse, sine and noise, plus more unique choices like Vox wave and cross wave. Together they provide a cool selection that can be modulated to produce an extensive range of timbres. In addition, 64 exclusive DWGS waveforms from Korg’s classic DW-8000 enable the microKORG to reproduce a broad collection of imitative sounds. Sounds like bells, electric pianos, guitars, basses and more that would be difficult reproduce on an analog synthesizer. You can also apply Ring and Sync modulation from Oscillator 2 to create the kind of complex timbres that are the true sign of an advanced synthesizer.

Four filter modes are available, offering -12 dB (2-pole) low pass, high pass and band pass configurations plus an extra steep -24 dB (4-pole) low pass setting. All include resonance. Two classic ADSR envelope generators and two MIDI-syncable LFOs provide the power to shape your sounds. Add a Virtual Patch matrix that lets you create advanced modulation settings – routing the Mod Wheel to control filter cutoff or pulse width, using an LFO to control panning or amp level, etc. – and you have performance that is unheard of from a synthesizer in this price range!

Classic Vocoding

The microKORG includes an 8-band vocoder with many advanced features. You can capture and “freeze” the formants of your voice, and then play it across the keyboard, or shift the formant frequency to make your voice sound male, female, like a child or just plain wacky! Best of all, the microKORG comes with its own microphone so you can start having fun right away.

A Full Range of Effects

Three types of modulation effects (chorus/flanger, phaser, ensemble), three types of delay effects (stereo, cross, L/R), and a two-band equalizer add the finishing touch to the microKORG. The delays can be synchronized with the arpeggiator or to an external MIDI clock – a great feature for live performances or for laying down tracks. All effects can be edited to create your own, unique sounds.

Great Sound and Expression

Korg has used all of the microKorg’s synthesis power in the creation of 128 great-sounding presets. They cover a wide range of the latest musical styles plus many vintage favorites. Sixteen vocoder Programs are also included. The Pitch Bend wheel, Modulation wheel and five other knobs provide flexible realtime control over filter cutoff, attack, release and other important parameters. The Edit Mode allows you to fully edit the existing sounds, or to create your own new ones.

Flexible Arpeggiator

Six types of arpeggio patterns (UP, DOWN, ALT1/2, Random, Trigger) are built in, with control over tempo, gate time, swing, and up to a 4-octave range. You can turn individual steps on or off within a pattern, providing the feel and functionality of a step sequencer.

Audio In

Two external audio input jacks are provided, so you can run other instruments, CDs and more through the microKORG’s filter and effects, allowing you to process sounds in truly creative ways.

A Compact MIDI Controller

The microKORG’s compact size is perfect for the musician or DJ looking to add a synth to his or her setup when space is tight. It’s also a great choice for use in a computer-based music setup. The five realtime knobs on the front panel can transmit MIDI messages (control changes), so they can be used as controllers for software synthesizers. Use the 37-note velocity-sensitive mini-keyboard for controlling other gear or for recording and editing with your sequencer. And thanks to battery-power, the microKORG is the ultimate portable controller when used with a laptop computer!

Clear Control and Classic Looks

There’s no complex menu structure – all parameters are located on the panel for easy access to any function. A large dial and LED illuminated buttons provide easy program selection even on a dark stage. With its beige-gold body, wooden side panels and retro-influenced design, the microKORG has a look that’s both vintage and funky.

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KORG X50

Introducing the new X50 music synthesizer; packed with Korg's distinctive and world-renown sounds, designed for easy and intuitive operation, and with an ultra-light and compact design that's ideal for the active musician.


• 512 professional-quality sound programs produced
by the HI synthesis system used on the world-famous TRITON series.

• 384 combinations, each allowing up to eight programs to be freely combined to create complex sounds.

• Multi Mode allows the X50 to be played from your external sequencer as a 16-part multi-timbral sound module.

• Powerful effect section with four processors (one insert effect, two master effects, one master EQ).

• Four-channel audio output (two main channels, two individual channels), a first in its class.

• Dual polyphonic arpeggiator for even more
musical enjoyment.

• USB connector allows single-cable MIDI connection with your computer.

• Stand-alone and innovative plug-in sound editing software is included, allowing you to tweak and program the X-50, even within your DAW software.

Korg's brilliant sounds in a handy size
The Korg X50 music synthesizer features the HI (Hyper Integrated) sound engine that's used on the world-famous TRITON series. It gives you pro-quality sounds in an ultra-compact body. This keyboard synthesizer delivers unbeatable convenience and enjoyment for live performance or song production.

A rich array of sounds and powerful effects
The 64 MB PCM memory contains a wide range of sounds, including piano, strings, guitar, and synth sounds. With 512 sound Programs, as well as 384 “Combinations” that let you use up to eight Programs together, you can start enjoying a diverse selection of great sounds right away. The effect section lets you simultaneously use four effects (one insert effect, two master effects, and one EQ), and provides a full selection of effect types such as reverb, chorus, and delay. Best of all, the X50 is compatible with Korg's TR line of music workstations so you can share sounds and songs with Korg users around the world.

Dual arpeggiator makes performance even more fun
An arpeggiator lets you play a variety of phrases using just one finger, and the X50 provides two polyphonic arpeggiators! For example, in Combination mode you can use the two arpeggiators to play drums and bass while you play chords and melody, giving you amazing power for live performances. In addition to five basic preset arpeggio patterns, the X50 also provides an additional 251 patterns containing various phrases. Of course you can also create your own original patterns and store them in internal memory.

Easy operation for immediate use
Finding the right sound quickly when you have so many to choose from can be a problem on some systems, but never Korg's! The X50 organizes its vast array of sounds into sixteen categories, and provides a Category Select function that makes it quick and easy to choose the sound you need from the category you specify. There's also an Audition Riff function that provides one-touch audition of each sound. Four knobs can be used to quickly adjust sounds, effects and arp settings, and the ClickPoint cursor makes the X50 a pleasure to use and play.

Light and compact design for easy portability
The X50 packs professional-quality sounds and a wide range of functions into an amazingly light and compact body. Even with a 61-note keyboard that gives you plenty of room to perform, the X50 boasts an ultra-light weight of only 4.5 kg --- about the same as an electric guitar. The compact design ensures that it can fit into the smallest home studio workspace, and thanks to its cool side handles the X50 is easy to take along wherever you go.

Cutting-edge connections
In a first for its class, the X50 features individual outputs, allowing professional setups in which the sounds of specific parts are sent to their own outputs. This can be very useful in situations such as recording when you may want to EQ and process each sound separately, and for surround-sound applications.

The X50 also provides a USB connector that lets you establish MIDI connections with your computer using a single cable – no interface needed. A powerful Multi mode give you 16 parts to create music with, with the full complement of effects and other settings to make complete songs using only the X50 and your computer. 128 Multis can be saved and recalled, with 16 preloaded covering many common music styles and genres.

It also comes with editor/librarian software that makes it easy to create and organize sounds using your computer. Two versions are provided: a traditional stand-alone application and an innovative plug-in version (VST, AU, and RTAS formats supported) that can run within your DAW and MIDI sequencing software. Both versions are colourful, graphic-rich, and provide a wonderful interface for working with the X50 in all its modes.