OVERVIEW
Korg's R3 is a full featured synthesizer that delivers powerful analog synthesis and advanced sound creation from a compact digital keyboard paired with a high quality vocoder (mic included). The R3 uses the same MMT (multiple modeling technology) sound generator as its big brother the Korg RADIAS giving it thick, bold and crisp analog sounds that will definitely satisfy both beginners and experienced professionals. Its versatile synthesis modeling, ample effects and editing capabilities make it suitable for all types of music from r&b, funk, hip-hop, techno, and house, plus its MIDI I/O and USB connectivity allows it to fully integrate with and grow with your studio.


FEATURES
The R3's top feature is the solid analog synthesis from Korg's MMT (multiple modeling technology) engine. Usually used in much more expensive full size keyboards, this technology delivers full, rich analog sound (via 2 oscillators, 3 envelope generators, 2 LFO filters, + amp and noise generators per voice with 8 voice polyphony) all within the R3's very compact 37 key frame. Unlike many synths this size, the R3 features full size, velocity sensitive keys which makes it much easier to work with (a big complaint about the microKorg is the minikeys) and 2 timbre/8 voice performance power.

In addition to MMT synthesis, the R3 also boasts several features to further shape and tweak your sound. 2 filters with selectable routing are available: Filter 1 is a multi-mode resonant design that lets you continuously vary between various low-pass, high-pass and band reject characteristics. Filter 2 has a switchable, multi-mode resonant design that also includes comb filtering, which can be made to feed back in order to boost multiple series of overtones, giving you amazing potential for generating unique tonal changes. There are also 6 virtual patches available on the R3 that simulate the patch cord functions of older synthesizers (MS and PS series Korgs), a modulation sequencer that can apply time-varying changes to a specific parameter, a 2 band EQ for each timbre with 2 insert effects, and a flexible, editable arpeggiator with 6 different arpeggio patterns built in.

There are a total of 128 preset programs (16 banks x 8 programs) all of which are fully editable and feature a diverse range of sounds from highly complex synths using cross modulation, formant motion and arpeggios, to thick, warm sounds you would expect from analog modeling. The R3 also has 2 external audio input jacks that allow you to process and transform the sound from external audio sources. Create new sounds by playing other instruments and loops through the R3 and using the external audio source as a filter or oscillator.

Also included is a high quality vocoder with 16 channels, adjustable level and pan for each channel, formant shift, formant motion and formant hold functions, MIDI I/O features, USB connectivity and Korg's R3 Editor software to edit and save your programs with your Mac or PC.

OUR OPINION
If you are familiar with the best selling Korg microKorg, think of this as a step up... a BIG step up. The powerful MMT synthesis alone is worth the price of admission, but add to that the full size keys(!), a serious vocoder, MIDI and USB functions and compact portable size and you've got a great addition to your studio set up that won't break the bank. A great synth that is loaded with features you can really get deep with. Recommended.

- MMT(multiple modeling technology) analog synthesis-modeling sound engine
- 37 full size, velocity sensitive keys
- MIDI I/O and USB connectivity
- 128 programs (16 banks x 8 programs)
- 2 timbres/8 voice polyphony
- 16 formant motion data sets
- modulation sequencer
- SYNTH: 2 oscillators, 3 envelope generators, 2 LFO filters, amp + noise generator per voice
- VOCODER: 16 channels, adjustable level and pan for each channel, formant shift, formant motion and formant hold functions
- EFFECTS: timbre: 2 band EQ, insert effect, program master effect
- ARPEGGIATOR: 6 types - up, down, alt 1/2, random, trigger, individual step on/off function
- AUDIO INPUTS: 1 mic/line rear panel unbalanced 1/4" phone jack, 1 balanced mic front panel XLR, 1 unbalanced 1/4" phone jack
- AUDIO OUTPUTS: 2 unbalanced 1/4" outs, 1 stereo 1/4" headphone jack
- octave up/down buttons
- pitch + mod wheels
- foot switch jack
- 8 character LCD displays with LED rings around each edit knob
- includes gooseneck mic, AC-Adapter, and R3 editor software

reviewed by snackmaster