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.
Please note: Cosmetic and Technical specifications are subject to change without notice
Black is back - Limited Edition MicroKORG
microKORG in limited edition with reversed black keys.
Duran Duran : Red Hot - How the UK's electro pop giants use the Radias and microKORG.
microKORG(View Specifications Page)
The microKORG was introduced at the NAMM Show in July, 2002. Here is the video showning a demo of the product at this event.
microKORG Owners Manual
microKORG EasyStart Guide
microKORG MIDI Implementation
Tech Tips
microKORG - Sound Editor Software
Here is a great piece of software for organizing and editing the sounds in your microKORG Synthesizer/Vocoder. It’s a free download, so enjoy!
Using the microKORG Sound Editor, you will be able see all of the parameters and their values on the computer screen, so editing is quick and easy! The envelope parameters are displayed graphically, and you can edit them by clicking and dragging.
In addition to editing and creating new sounds, this software allows you to create libraries of individual patches, full loads of custom sounds, and even global settings.
The microKORG Sound Editor allows you to name each patch, even though the microKORG itself does not display these names. In fact, we've even included a duplicate of the factory preload data, including the patch names, to get you started.
The instructions are included in .pdf format with each download. The PC version will ask if you would like the English or Japanese manual (It defaults to English). The Mac OS 9 Version will Download both Manuals (English and Japanese). Obviously, if you don't need the Japanese version, you can just chuck it, or you can do a custom install and choose to NOT install the Japanese Manual.
Mac users can enjoy the "Randomize" feature, allowing the program to create new patches all on its own (with unpredictable results)!
Note: Korg does not assure operations on every model Macintosh computer. Regarding newer Intel Macs, operation was confirmed under Rosetta but this version does not run as native Universal Binary.
There are three downloads available:
MAC OS9: microKORGEditorMAC.hqx
MAC OSX: microKORGMac1_0_1.dmg
-------------------------------------------------
Logic Environment
This is the logic environment for e-magic logic software
Independant review at www.soundonsound.com
Independant review at www.sonicstate.com