Korg

LAB POINTS

• create your own effects combinations and use up to four effects at once
• brilliant, colorful LED touchpad illuminations move in sync with your performance
• control multiple effects in realtime using the intuitive Kaoss X-Y touchpad
• choose one of five effects from each of four effect groups; a total of 1,295 combinations
• freeze button holds the effect settings after you release your finger, for hands-free use
• versatile and highly playable effects control, delivering unimaginable expression
• Looper effects, DJ emulation Vinyl Break and Ducking Compressor effects
• Auto BPM engine detection and Tap Tempo functions keep effects on beat
• any audio source can be processed - MP3 player, mixing board, instruments, vocals via the mic input, etc.
• dimensions: 7.29" x 8.39" x 1.73"
• weight: 26.6 oz.

COMES WITH

• AC adapter
• protective sheet for touchpad

OVERVIEW

Korg's microSampler delivers multi-mode sampling, resampling, Pattern Sequencing and over-the-top effects all under a fun-to-use intuitive interface. More than your typical sampler, the microSampler is a complete sound design studio for creating loops, phrases, and much more.

FEATURES

The microSAMPLER hosts a solid complement of top-end sampling features to expand your creative potential. This full-fledged instrument offers fourteen-voice polyphony, reverse playback, editing operations such as Normalize and Truncate, and a Time Stretch feature that lets you change the tempo without affecting the pitch. Selectable sample rates of 48 kHz, 24 kHz, 12 kHz, and down to 6 kHz let you sample at rates beyond CD clarity or add in that Lo-Fi vintage vibe. Each bank contains 36 samples (a maximum of approximately 160 seconds of recording time for monaural samples at a 48 kHz sampling rate) and sixteen patterns of sequence data; the microSAMPLER lets you store eight such banks in internal memory. The Keyboard mode takes a single sample and assigns it chromatically across the keys for instant playability. With its recessed controls, bright LEDs and informative display, the microSAMPLER is fun to use and easy to operate for beginners or seasoned pros.

SAMPLING

Five distinct sampling methods allow you to work the way you want, to get the results you need. The microSAMPLER offers traditional One-Shot and Loop sampling, plus a number of creative sampling modes: Loop, Key Gate and Auto-Next. When it comes to sampling, the microSAMPLER is a versatile and unique tool.

• Loop sampling for recording grooves and phrases, drum loops, etc.
• One-Shot sampling for grabbing and triggering single events such as drums, etc
• Gate sampling for playing a sound musically across the keyboard
• Auto-Next sampling for capturing phrases as multiple samples
• Key Gate sampling is best for grabbing multiple samples from the same source

There's a resampling function that lets you play existing layered samples processed by an effect and played by the pattern sequencer and capture it all as a new sample. You can even sample while playing, allowing the sampling process itself to become part of your expressive performance.

PATTERN SEQUENCER

The pattern sequencer uses an overdub operating style that lets you continually layer your performances. You can switch between patterns during playback for seamless performances. Up to sixteen patterns (16,000 notes per pattern, or a maximum 64,000 notes) can be stored in each bank.

KAOSS EFFECTS

Developed for Korg's KAOSS PAD series, the effect engine serves up a great selection of effects so important when editing samples. The twenty-one effects include not only traditional delay and chorus, but also ring modulator and grain shifter, and even a Looper that's derived from the Loop Recording feature of the KAOSSILATOR Dynamic Phrase Synthesizer. The effects can be applied to any sound while resampling, allowing the effects to be used over and over again for more sonic expression. In addition, the microSampler features USB connectivity with editing via free editor/librarian software as well as importing of WAV/AIFF data. The keyboard runs on a wall adaptor but is also portable and can be powered by 6 AAA batteries.

KEY FEATURES

• sampling keyboard with pattern sequencing and effects
• 37 Natural-Touch mini-keys, velocity sensing
• sampling rate: 48 kHz, 24 kHz, 12 kHz, 6 kHz
• bank structure: 36 sample banks (160 seconds max)
• 9 total available banks (8 user + 1 rom)
• 14 voice polyphony
• sampling modes: One-Shot; Gate; Loop; Key Gate; Auto-Next; Resample in any mode
• 2 keyboard modes
• Sampling Mode: 36 Sample Playback Keys + 1 Audio Input
• Keyboard Mode: Single sample assigned chromatically across the keyboard
• effects: 21 (Compressor, Filter, 4-Band EQ, Distortion, Reverb, Delay, L/C/R Delay, Auto-Panning, Delay, Modulation Delay, Tape Echo, Chorus, Flanger, Vibrato, Phaser, Tremolo, Ring Modulation, Grain Shifter, Pitch Shifter, Talking Modulator, Looper)
• 16 patterns per sequence bank x 8
• 1/4" input, XLR balanced w/ mic/line switch
• 1/4" output
• MIDI I/O
• USB connectivity
• custom LCD screen
• runs off 9 VDC AC Adaptor or 6 AAA batteries

LAB POINTS

• versatile effects unit with intuitive touchpad interface
• real time control over 100 effects programs
• built-in MP3 player with microSD card for data
• ideal for adding effects to DJ sets
• 3 program memories provide instant recall of favorite effects
• internal mic plus external 1/8" audio input
• record and save sets directly on the microSD card

REVIEW

The second version of the popular Mini Kaoss Pad from Korg. The Mini Kaoss Pad has become a favorite with DJ's and musicians as an intuitive and compact effects unit, perfect for adding some extra flavor to sets. With the Mini Kaoss Pad 2, they've taken a good thing and made it even better with the addition of powerful effects borrowed from the Kaoss Pad KP3 and the Kaoss Quad, as well as a built-in MP3 player with adjustable pitch and microSD card for storing data and recording and saving sets! You can now use the Mini Kaoss Pad 2 as a DJ playback device, or use it to process the entire output of your DJ rig with Korg’s famous KAOSS effects. In addition, the Mini Kaoss Pad 2 offers a built-in mic, onboard speaker, and convenient battery power so it is completely self contained and fully portable.

The intuitive design and amazing flexibility of the touchpad allows Mini Kaoss Pad 2 users to easily control multiple effects and parameters by simply stroking, tapping, or rubbing the KAOSS touch pad with their finger. Using this remarkable design, you can easily control effects in complex ways that would be impossible on a conventional effect unit, almost as though you were playing an instrument. The FX RELEASE automatically adds a delay effect so that the effect blends smoothly into your song or performance, and avoids abrupt effect dropouts. When using an effect (such as aggressive distortion) that has a completely different character than the unprocessed sound, enabling the FX RELEASE ensures that the effect will blend naturally into the tracks of your song.

For DJ use and live performance, the Mini Kaoss Pad 2 provides three Program Memories for instant recall of your favorite effects. The Hold function freezes the effect parameters based on your finger’s current location on the touchpad for hands-free operation. Auto BPM detection syncs the applicable effects to the tempo of the song, so that everything continues to move in sync for a professional performance. These features are perfect for bringing the most out of your DJ sets, while the added mic and aux input allow you to process pretty much anything through the effects.

The built-in MP3 player plays back audio data from a microSD card allowing you to store sound effects or other audio material that you want to use during your DJ session, or save your favorite song data and then enjoy applying various effects to it. Unlike previous Kaoss Pad models, the self-contained Mini Kaoss Pad 2 allows you to perform without requiring any additional equipment as input sources. Both WAV and MP3 formats are supported. In addition, the playback speed of the internal MP3 player can be varied using the VALUE slider. Use it as a pitch control! The Mini Kaoss Pad 2 also allows you to set a cue point specifying where in the song playback will start.

Finally, a microSD card can be used for saving MP3 data, and also to capturing your Mini Kaoss Pad 2 performance into the master recorder as WAV format data. Other features to note: a comfortably curved body that makes it both stylish and extremely easy to play, high-contrast OEL (Organic Electroluminescent) display clearly shows the names of the sounds, features, and parameters, and ensures excellent visibility, even in a dimly lit DJ booth or stage, touch sensitive VALUE slider, built-in speaker, aux in and headphone output for private listening.

TECH SPECS

• intuitive touchpad control
• 100 effects programs: Filter (15), Modulation (15), LFO (20), Delay (10), Reverb (5), Looper (20), Vocoder (5), Synthesizer (10)
• 6 preset demos
• sampling frequency: 48kHz
• 24-bit AD/DA conversion
• audio input: stereo mini jack
• audio output: stereo mini jack
• data storage: microSD or microSDHCcard up to 16GB
• runs on 2x AA batteries or optional power supply (DC4.5V - sold separately)
• dimensions: 2.99" x 5.04" x 0.98"
• weight: 3.75 oz.

LAB POINTS

• true analog synthesis in a compact, portable unit
• analog lead/bass synth
• 3-part analog drums, using discrete analog circuitry
• 8-step, 4-part sequencer
• advanced multi-function ribbon keyboard with Chromatic, Continuous, & Wide modes
• selectable oscillator waveform, noise generator, and versatile LFO
• uses the same VCF (filter) circuit as the classic MS-10/MS-20 synths
• add MS-20 filter to any external sound
• sync in & out jacks allows synchronized integration with multiple units
• trigger in & out to sync with other analog gear
• built-in speaker and compact size for production on the go
• battery powered operation

MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW

In a world seemingly ruled by digital, Korg created an analog sensation with the palm-sized monotron Analogue Ribbon Synthesizer. Korg has once again raised the analog banner with the amazing monotribe Analog Ribbon Station; a new form of synthesizer that packs an amazing array of features and technology into its compact body. Korg's monotribe shares the monotron's analog DNA, yet quickly delves deeper into the rich, organic, and often chaotic world of analog synthesis. In addition to analog synthesis, monotribe brings together intuitive ease of use and a three-part discrete analog rhythm section, plus the proven appeal of Electribe-style sequencing. Complete with a built-in speaker and battery power, monotribe is self-contained and highly portable.

LAB REVIEW

Korg puts the power of real analog synthesis in the palm of your hand with the Monotribe. In a time when the prices of vintage analog synths are steadily rising daily (expect to pay more than the price of your MacBook for a decent one), the Monotribe is a steal, especially when you consider it combines a true analog synth, drum machine, AND a sequencer. Add to that the authentic MS-20 filter (an original MS-20 will cost you over $1500) and you've got a real powerhouse of a unit in a compact and portable frame. RECOMMENDED.

KEY FEATURES

• sound generator: analog synthesis
• VCO: Waveshape (Saw, Triangle, Square); Octave Range (64, 32, 16, 8, 4, 2); Noise Generator (Amount); Key Range (Wide, Narrow, Key)
• VCF: 12 dB/Oct Low Pass Filter; Cutoff (Frequency); Peak (Resonance)
• VCA: Gain knob: EG Select (Decay, Gate, Attack)
• LFO: Rate (Speed); Intensity (Depth); Target Switch (VCO, VCF, VCO+VCF); Mode Switch (Fast, Slow, 1-Shot); Shape (Saw, Triangle, Square)
• drums: 3 parts, discrete analog
• Sequencer: 8 steps
• Audio In: 3.5mm / 1/8" stereo mini-phone jack
• Output: 6.3mm / 1/4" stereo phone jack (unbalanced)
• Headphones: 3.5mm / 1/8" stereo mini-phone jack
• Sync In Jack: 3.5mm / 1/8" stereo mini-phone jack
• Maximum input level: 20V
• Sync Out Jack: 3.5mm / 1/8" stereo mini-phone jack
• Output level: 5V
• Power Supply: AA/LR6 alkaline battery (x6) or AA nickel-metal hydride battery (x6) or Optional AC adapter (DC: 9V)
• Battery Life: approximately 14 hours (when using alkaline batteries)
• Dimensions (W x D x H): 8.15" x 5.71" x 2.76"
• Weight: 1.62 lbs. (without batteries)

INCLUDES

• 6x AA alkaline batteries

LAB POINTS

• full-fledged, true analog synthesizer w/ VCO, VCF, LFO
• features the same classic analog filter found in the legendary Korg MS-10 & MS-20
• filter any external source using the audio input jack
• easy-to-play ribbon keyboard
• fun-to-tweak controls
• LFO can modulate either pitch of filter cutoff
• LFO Rate knob features LED visual indicator
• battery operation, pocket sized
• internal speaker/headphone jack lets you enjoy the sound anywhere
• fun-to-tweak controls

MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW

Analog synths were once massive, temperamental monsters; but no more! The true analog monotron fits in your pocket and is ready to play anytime, anyplace. Although small enough to hold in one hand, the amazing monotron delivers ginormous and dazzling sounds. Best of all, it's a blast to play. The controls have been streamlined for ease of use. Concentrating on the most important sound parameters, the panel contains only five knobs and one switch. With this level of simplicity, now anyone can easily enjoy the world of analog synthesizers.

Ribbon controller keyboard offers easy expression

Borrowing the enjoyment of performing with a simple touch from Korg's wildly popular KAOSS products, the monotron's ribbon controller keyboard takes this ease of use even farther. Simple finger gestures can produce expressive effects such as vibrato and glide.

1VCO, 1VCF, 1LFO - Modular synthesis building blocks

The monotron's circuit is radically simple: one voltage-controlled oscillator, one voltage-controlled filter, and one low frequency oscillator. As a result, the process of sound creation is intuitive, and instantly understandable. And it's tons of fun. The monotron provides the joy of sonic creativity that's at the heart of analog synthesis.

The famous Korg filter

The monotron starts with the same highly acclaimed VCF circuit as KORG's classic MS-10 and original MS-20 semi modular synthesizers, and adds extra oomph to the resonance. Originally released over 30 years ago, these instruments are still coveted today for their aggressive, dynamic filters. The VCF Cutoff knob sets the frequency or tone of the filter; the VCF Peak (resonance) knob adds emphasis.

Semi modular satisfaction

Just as on the original MS-20, the monotron's filter can be "patched into," allowing any external audio source to be processed by the monotron's filter. The input jack (AUX input) built into the monotron's compact body inserts the AUX input into the signal path right before the VCF. This provides a great way to connect a KAOSSILATOR, a keyboard, a guitar, a digital audio player or even an un-mixed track to the monotron and enjoy tone-bending filter effects.

Versatile LFO provides audio and visual excitement

The LFO (Low Frequency Oscillator) can affect either the oscillator pitch or the filter cutoff. Both the speed and the intensity are individually adjustable, so you can create anything from a gentle vibrato to swooping tone changes of galactic proportions. As you turn the LFO Rate knob, featuring an embedded LED, the speed of the modulation effect and the speed of the blinking LED will change in tandem.

Listen anywhere - alone or with friends

The ultimate in compactness, the monotron includes a built-in miniature speaker. Along with the battery operation, this feature allows you to enjoy the monotron everywhere. There's also a headphone output that you can use when creating sounds at home, for recording, or for connecting to an amplifier or PA system.

KEY FEATURES

• Audio Path: VCO, VCF, LFO
• Knobs: VCO Pitch; LFO Rate; LFO Intensity; VCF Cutoff; VCF Peak
• LFO Switch: Assignable to Oscillator Pitch or Filter Cutoff
• Controller: Ribbon Controller
• Volume: Headphone Volume
• Aux Input: 1/8" Stereo Jack
• Headphone Output: 1/8" Stereo Jack
• Speaker: Miniature internal; Disabled when headphones are in use
• Power Supply: AAA Alkalines (x2)
• Dimensions: (W x D x H)  4.72" x 2.83" x 1.10"
• Weight: 3.35 oz. (without batteries)

LAB POINTS

• low-profile, 25-key USB-MIDI keyboard
• ultra compact size ideal for use with laptop and netbook computers
• advanced-design keybed offers improved accuracy and velocity-sensitive keys
• sustain button - ideal for entering piano parts
• control buttons provide simple yet versatile control
• USB power for an uncluttered setup

MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW

The nanoKEY2 features an advanced and up-to-date design. By combining the great-feeling "touch" that Korg has developed for its professional MIDI keyboards and the low-profile "thinness" of recent computer keyboard innovations, the nanoKEY2 provides a superior keyboard response for its class and size. It's designed with ample key width and plenty of space between the keys, reducing the chances of a wrong note. The touch and velocity response have been carefully tuned, as only a manufacturer with Korg's track record and know-how can, ensuring that your expressive performance will be conveyed accurately to your software.

The Octave Shift buttons - borrowed from Korg's MIDI controllers - allow the overall pitch to be shifted four levels, either UP or DOWN, in octave increments. For enhanced performances, the nanoKEY2 also provides Pitch Bend buttons, a Modulation button, and a Sustain button, one that's indispensible for piano or electric piano performance. For each of these buttons, the on/off switching speed can be specified over four levels (using the Korg Kontrol Editor), ensuring the smooth changes that are appropriate for your performance.

The nanoKEY2 works with the "Korg Kontrol Editor" software, available free on the Korg website. Load it into your computer, and use it to make detailed customized settings. Choose from a total of four velocity settings: three velocity curves or fixed velocity; specify the control change messages transmitted by the modulation button and the sustain button.

Just connect a single USB cable from your computer to the nanoKEY2, and you've got a quick and portable music production system. Power and USB-MIDI data travels down the same wire for a clean, efficient workspace.

KEY FEATURES

• Keyboard: 25-key with velocity and 4 velocity curves
• Pitch up/down buttons
• Octave Shift up/down buttons with -4 to +4 octave range
• Modulation button
• Sustain button
• mini-USB connection
• USB bus powered
• Size (W x D x H) 12.80 x 3.27 x 0.65 inches
• Weight: 0.54 lbs.

COMES WITH

• USB cable

LAB POINTS

• low-profile pad controller, excellent for playing or entering drum data
• ultra compact size ideal for use with laptop and netbook computers
• 16 solid, responsive, and velocity-sensitive trigger pads
• numerous assignable knobs, sliders, and buttons
• dynamic trigger pads capture all your performance nuances
• control multiple MIDI parameters via the X-Y Touchpad
• USB power for an uncluttered setup

MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW

Like all nanoSERIES2 controllers, the nanoPAD2 had to be compact, lightweight and sized to work well with any laptop or desktop computer. In addition, the nanoPAD2 also had to pack in 16 great-feeling and dynamic-sensing pads, as well as leaving room for the X-Y touchpad! The Korg nanoPAD2 does all this and more. In fact, there are four banks of pad assignments, providing a total of 64 pad assignments.

The sixteen velocity-sensitive pads provide excellent response to your fingertips, and also realistically convey the playing feel to your sequencer or DAW software, ensuring that your drum parts will be full of life. By switching between the four scenes, you can experience 64 different pad assignments.

The X-Y pad can be used to control multiple synthesizer parameters. In addition, the new "Touch Scale" function lets you intuitively play phrases on the X-Y touchpad, just as on the Kaossilator. You can choose from sixteen different scales, and specify the root key and note range to ensure that your performance stays within your song. The "Gate Arp" function, borrowed from the Kaossilator Pro, transmits note data based on tempo; Tap tempo and tempo sync are supported. Combined with the Touch Scale, the Gate Arp allows you to play tempo-synchronized phrases and rhythms simply by stroking the X-Y pad or playing the pads.

The nanoPAD2 works with the "Korg Kontrol Editor" software - available free on the Korg website. Load it into your computer, and use it to make detailed customized settings. Choose from a total of four velocity settings: three velocity curves or fixed velocity. You can also specify note numbers, create user scales for the Touch Scale function, assign chords, assign control change messages, and save your settings.

Just connect a single USB cable from your computer to the nanoPAD2, and you've got a quick and portable music production system. Power and USB-MIDI data travels down the same wire for a clean, efficient workspace.

KEY FEATURES

• 16 trigger pads with velocity and 4 velocity curves
• X-Y pad
• HOLD button
• GATE ARP button
• TOUCH SCALE button
• KEY/RANGE button
• SCALE/ARP button
• SCENE button
• 4 user scene memories
• mini-USB connection
• USB bus power
• Size (W x D x H): 12.80 x 3.27 x 0.63 inches
• Weight: 0.63 lbs.

COMES WITH

• USB cable