The Korg microKORG Synthesizer/Vocoder

This is a demo video for the modern mini-synth classic, the Korg microKorg synthesizer.

Description:

State-of-the-art analog modeling and multi-band vocoding are available in a compact, portable instrument. With 37 keys and 128 user-rewritable programs, the microKORG Synthesizer/Vocoder is designed for the performer, producer, computer musician or beginner looking for an affordable synthesizer.

Korg microKORG Synthesizer/Vocoder Features:

  • 128 user-rewritable programs
  • 37-key mini keyboard
  • Powerful synthesis
  • Classic vocoding
  • A full range of effects
  • Great sounds and expression
  • Flexible arpeggiator (6 types)
  • Clear control and classic looks
  • Can serve as a compact MIDI controller

EM’s David Battino had this to say about the Korg microKorg:

It’s easy to slip into critic mode and forget that making music is supposed to be fun. The MicroKorg is frustrating if you expect to play and program it like a full-size keyboard synthesizer, but as a portable, creative gadget, it stands alone. If you can justify spending $500 on a terrific-sounding musical toy (and I use that word in a very positive sense), you won’t go wrong with the MicroKorg.

The Korg microKorg retails for $399.

If you’ve used the Korg microKorg – leave a comment with your thoughts!

Specifications:

Sound Generation Method:
Analog Modeling Synthesis System

Synthesizer Program:
Multi Timbral:
2 (max, Normal/Dual Mode)

Voices:
4 voices

Sound Source:
2 Oscillator + Noise Generator
Multi Mode Filter (-24dB/oct LPF, -12dB/oct LPF/BPF/HPF)
EG x2, LFO x2, Virtual Patch x4

Vocoder Program:
Voices:
4 voices

Sound Source:
1 Oscillator + Noise Generator
EG x1
LFO x2
8 Channels vocoder
Level and pan of each channel can be edited
Formant Shift function

General Specifications:
Programs:
128 programs

Effects:
Modulation effects (3 types)
Delay (3 types)
Equalizer

Arpeggiator:
6 types

Keyboard:
37 Keys (mini-keyboard, velocity sensitive)

Inputs:
AUDIO IN 1, and 2

Level switch:
LINE/MIC
[AUDIO IN 1, 2 (LINE)] [AUDIO IN 2 (MIC)]

Outputs:
L/MONO, R and Headphones

MIDI:
IN, OUT and THRU

Display:
3 characters x1 line with 8 segment LED

Power Supply:
DC 9 V (AC adapter), or six AA alkaline batteries (sold separately)

Power Consumption:
6.4 Watt maximum

Dimensions:
20.63″(W) x 9.13″(D) x 2.76″(H) 524mm(W) x 232mm(D) x 70mm(H)

Weight:
4.85 lbs. 2.2 kg

Accessories:
AC adapter (DC 9 V, 600 mA)
Condenser Microphone

Korg microKorg Resources:

7 thoughts on “The Korg microKORG Synthesizer/Vocoder

  1. nah it still a joke it was my first synth i ever got i did have fun with it but it was still too limited for what i was trying to do so than i just sold and got the ms2000 which i still use to this day

  2. …its kinda funny seeing James advertising the Korg range…
    I knew before but never saw a clip of him actually !
    It seems he found the Micro so stunning that he left the company and went off to Propellerheads….a much tougher job since he lost his hair now….lol

  3. I’ve never understood why people call it limited – it can do everything a lot of bigger and more expensive synths can do, and it sounds amazing too (a lot of bigger and more expensive ones don’t). The editing is wonderfully tactile and intuitive, and it’s really easy to use. The only limitation I’ve ever come across is the polyphony…

    The iPod of synthesisers, perhaps?

  4. i love this device
    it is what it is and at times more, an entry level device of it's kind
    i find nothing wrong with the microkorg and plan on using it till dies out then i'll mod it 'till the cows come home…

  5. i love this device
    it is what it is and at times more, an entry level device of it's kind
    i find nothing wrong with the microkorg and plan on using it till dies out then i'll mod it 'till the cows come home…

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