KORG has announced version 2 of its microKORG2 synthesiser and vocoder keyboard, featuring expanded sound engines, enhanced effects, more loop recorder functions, and support for split performance, as well as more futureproofing for sound design.
Features
Overview
- Expanded freedom in sound design
- Custom oscillators and FXs via logue SDK
- Collaboration with Sinevibes
- Flexible sound creation with new sub-oscillator
- New split function
- Enhanced loop recorder with slice and step recording
logue
The microKORG2 is now logue SDK–compatible, making it possible to load custom oscillators and effects, or even create your own. The sound engine has also been refined, expanding parameters for more flexible use of OSC3 as an LFO, enabling even more complex and sophisticated sound design.
First introduced with instruments like the minilogue xd and NTS series, the logue SDK is KORG’s open-source development environment that lets users expand hardware with new oscillators and effects. On the microKORG2, this means you can use custom oscillators and effects included with the update, explore third-party creations, or build your own with API (Application Programming Interface) and development tools. These custom digital oscillators and user effects integrate seamlessly with the microKORG2’s existing modulation and reverb options. Because the SDK is open, you’re not limited to factory presets. You can tap into a global community of developers and sound designers, or push the instrument further by programming your own, giving the microKORG2 unlimited ways to expand with fresh new sounds.
Custom oscillators and effects can be easily loaded on your microKorg2 thanks to the free Windows / Mac OS compatible Librarian application.
OSC3
OSC3 in low mode can now operate as an LFO that covers a wide frequency range.
Running at high speed yields AM/FM modulation effects, and selecting different waveforms allows more complex sound design.
By selecting OSC3 as a modulation source, you can achieve complex movements such as dynamic panning and volume changes. It can be used both in oscillator mode and in Low mode. When used as an oscillator, it delivers intricate tonal effects without compromising the richness of the sound.
Split Function
The keyboard can be split into two sections, allowing for different sounds to be played in each section. With only three octaves to play with this may offer up some challenges but could be good for simple pairings such as bass and lead/chords.
Loop Recorder
The loop recorder has been further refined with new features such as step recording and slice mode, designed to improve ease of use and expand creative possibilities.
A step recording function now allows you to record loops step by step. Even if real-time performance is not your strength, you can record one step at a time with precision. In addition, by changing preset sounds at each step, you can easily create complex loops.
In Slice mode, recorded loop sounds are divided and assigned to the keyboard, allowing you to play them as individual slices. This ensures you can reliably select the exact portion of the recorded sound you want to loop, and by combining it with the arpeggiator, you can further expand and develop your loop sounds.
Created loop sounds can be exported as 16-bit/48 kHz WAV files to an external DAW, where they can serve as the foundation for track production. You can also rework them in your DAW and re-import them into the microKORG2 to build even more complex loop sounds. In addition, you can import your favorite loop samples and integrate them directly into live performance.
Specifications
Keyboard
- 37 keys (mini keys, with velocity, no aftertouch)
Synthesizer Programs
- Sound Engine: Analog modeling synthesis system
- Number of Timbres: Max. 2 (when Dual)
- Maximum number of voices: Single 8 voices, Dual 4 voices
Vocal Processor
- Maximum Polyphony: Vocoder 4 voices, Hard Tune 1 part, Harmonizer 2 parts
Effects
- Modulation, Delay, Reverb, Equalizer
Arpeggiator
- 10 types, step arpeggiator function
Programs
- 256 programs (4 Banks x 8 Categories x 8 Programs)
Inputs/Outputs
- OUTPUT – L/MONO, R terminals: 6.3mm TS phone jack, unbalanced
- HEADPHONES jack: 6.3mm stereo phone jack, unbalanced
- MIC IN – CONDENSER: +5V 3.5mm TRS mini phone jack, unbalanced
- MIC IN – DYNAMIC: 6.3mm TS phone jack, unbalanced
- AUX IN: 3.5mm mini stereo phone jack, unbalanced
- DAMPER/SWITCH: 6.3 mm phone jack
- MIDI IN/OUT
- USB Type C
Display
- 2.8-inch IPS LCD display
Power Supply
- 9V DC (AC adapter), six AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH)
Battery life
- Approximately. 4 hours or more (when using alkaline batteries)
Dimensions (WxDxH)
- 542 x 238 x 65 mm / 21.34” x 9.37” x 2.56”
Weight
- 2.2 kg / 4.85 lbs. (without batteries and included microphone)
Included Items
- Condenser microphone, AC adapter (DC 9V), soft case (MBK, MWH)
Accessories (sold separately)
- DS-1H damper pedal, PS-1 pedal switch, PS-3 pedal switch
