mini keyboard piano: Korg microKorg Analog Modeling Synthesizer with Vocoder review and best price

Korg microKorg Analog Modeling Synthesizer with Vocoder description

MicroKorg Synthesizer and Vocoder

With the MicroKorg analog modeling synthesizer, hardware matters. The built-in vocoder and selectable-step arpeggiator add a new dimension to performing and recording without the need to master new technologies. External sounds can be processed by the MicroKorg's filter and more. With dedicated knobs and an index to the sound-editing parameters available on the front panel, MicroKorg allows each player to go as deep into the sound engine as desired. But for many musicians, just choosing the sounds from the convenient categories provides instant satisfaction.

Featuring retro-styling with solid wood side panels. View larger

8-band vocoder

Run other instruments, CDs and more through the MicroKorg's filter and effects. View larger

Classic Looks, Clear Control

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

Great Sounds and Expression

Korg has used all of the MicroKorg's synthesizer and vocoder 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 players to fully edit the existing sounds, or to create new ones all their own.

Combining mini-keys, battery power, a simple-to-use interface, and phenomenal sound. View larger

128 completely editable presets. View larger

Powerful Synthesis

The MicroKorg synthesizer uses an advanced dual-oscillator analog modeling sound engine. Oscillator 1 features a total of 71 waveforms including 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 can easily be produced with a synthesizer vocoder such as the MicroKorg. Ring and Sync modulation from Oscillator 2 can be applied 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 modes and settings include resonance. Two classic ADSR envelope generators and two MIDI-syncable LFOs provide robust sound-shaping power. Add a Virtual Patch matrix to 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 vocoder in this price range.

Classic Vocoding

The MicroKorg includes an 8-band synthesizer 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 touches to sound of the MicroKorg synthesizer/vocoder. 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.

Flexible Arpeggiator

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

Audio In, Creativity Out

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 compact size of the MicroKorg synthesizer vocoder is perfect for the musician or DJ looking to add a synth to his or her setup when space is tight and it is 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 synthesizer vocoder is the ultimate portable controller when used with a laptop computer.

User reviews for Korg microKorg Analog Modeling Synthesizer with Vocoder -