Finding the best korg synthesizer keyboard suitable for your needs isnt easy. With hundreds of choices can distract you. Knowing whats bad and whats good can be something of a minefield. In this article, weve done the hard work for you.
Reviews
1. Korg KROSS 2 Synthesizer Workstation (61-Key, Black)
Description
In addition to a total of more than a thousand preset sounds, expansion PCM memory has been newly added. Also new is a pad sampler that allows full-fledged sampling, and USB audio/MIDI interface functionality. The color scheme is even more stylish, and the user interface allows intuitive operation even by beginners. Effortlessly select the sound that you want to play, shape it to match your imagination, sample a sound, create phrases and rhythms, record your vocal or guitar, bring KROSS 2 on stage, and perform.While maintaining its identity as ultra-lightweight, compact, and capable of running on batteries, this new model dramatically enhances KROSS s sounds and functionality. In addition to a total of more than a thousand preset sounds, expansion PCM memory has been newly added. Also new is a pad sampler that allows full-fledged sampling, and USB audio/MIDI interface functionality. The color scheme is even more stylish, and the user interface allows intuitive operation even by beginners. Whatever you artistic vision, you can make it happen. KROSS 2 is a versatile synthesizer platform made with creative freedom in mind.A rich variety of more than 1,000 preset soundsThe sound quality of KORG synthesizers is endorsed by top-ranking musicians around the world. The evolved KROSS 2 expands polyphony from 80 to 120 voices, and dramatically powers-up the number of internal programs from 809 to 1,075 programs. Including multi-layered pianos and electric pianos, thick strings and other new sounds that will work well with any band, as well as the latest drum kits to cover current styles such as EDM. The wide selection of programs covers your needs from live performance to studio production.Built-in expansion PCM memory, and support for optional librariesThe KROSS 2 now provides 128 MB of built-in expansion PCM memory. By selecting from optional libraries that will be released following KROSS 2, you can expand KROSS 2 s internal sounds to meet the needs of your performing styl2. Korg Monologue Monophonic Analog Synthesizer with Presets -Black (MONOLOGUEBK)
Feature
VCF changed for 2-pole with more biteDRIVE added for rich bass and cutting leads
LFO capabilities expanded with higher rates and deeper modulation
16 step buttons for faster real-time step edits
Push button + turn knob for "parameter lock" style motion sequencing
Description
Following the success of the minilogue, we bring a monophonic synthesizer designed with the same high quality construction, ease of use, great voicing and fantastic industrial design. The monologue has the same spirit of producing great analogue synthesis for everyone, but has a different emphasis in the sounds. We have redesigned the synthesis for a great sounding powerful monophonic synth. The voicing of the filter, modulation and drive section has been expanded the sonic palette to include not just rich basses and cutting leads, but also complex rhythms, especially when used in conjunction with the updated sequencing capabilities3. Korg Minilogue 4-Voice Polyphonic Analog Synth with Presets (MINILOGUE)
Feature
Flexible, powerful four-voice analog synthesizerFully programmable, with 200 program memories (100 sounds included)
Voice Mode lets you flexibly configure the four voices
Automatable 16-step polyphonic note and motion sequencer
Oscilloscope function shows the waveform visually
Description
With the minilogue, you can get your hands on the powerful sound that's only possible with real analog, and find inspiration with features including a polyphonic step and motion sequencer, on board tape-style delay, multiple sound shaping and filter options, and an oscilloscope display. All of these seamlessly integrated features make minilogue as fun and easy to use as it is powerful. It's the next-generation analog synthesizer for musicians of all types.4. Korg Monotron Delay Analog Ribbon Synthesizer
Feature
VCO (Sawtooth) with Pitch control; VCF with Cutoff and Peak controlsSpace Delay with Time and Feedback controls; LFO with Waveshape, Rate, and Intensity controls
Ribbon Keyboard with extra-wide four-octave range; keyboard glows under blacklight
Original MS-20 Filter with aux input allows the filter & delay to be applied to any source
Built-in speaker, battery power; graphics that glow under black-light
Description
Analog Synth with Space Delay Korg's Monotron DELAY fits in your pocket, yet delivers enormous analog sound! Equipped with a built-in speaker and battery operation, Monotron DELAY is ready - anytime, anyplace. Best of all, it's a blast to play, with a level of simplicity allowing anyone to enjoy the world of analog synthesizers. Product Block Copy The monotron DELAY also provides an analog oscillator, filter, LFO, plus a Space Delay that's indispensable for swooping, cosmic sounds. As with the filter, the delay effect can be added to any external sound via the Aux In jack. The LFO offers a choice of waveshapes: Square and Triangle. In addition, a trimpot on the back panel can continuously adjust the waveshape to deliver even more versatility. The monotron DELAY's ribbon controller keyboard features a wide, four-octave range. The reversed white keys and body adornments glows under black light illumination, making the monotron DELAY ideal for nearly any club environment! VCO (Sawtooth) with Pitch control; VCF with Cutoff and Peak controls; Space Delay with Time and Feedback controls; LFO with Waveshape, Rate, and Intensity controls; Ribbon Keyboard with extra-wide four-octave range; keyboard glows under blacklight; Original MS-20 Filter with aux input allows the filter & delay to be applied to any source; Built-in speaker, battery power; graphics that glow under blacklight!5. Korg KROSS 61 - Key Mobile Workstation
Feature
A wide variety of sounds utilizing twice as much PCM memory as previous instrumentsStylish and distinctive lightweight two-tone color design that can be powered by 6x AA batteries
Pro-quality EDS-i sound engine, with a total of seven effects available for simultaneous use
Quick Layer/Split function for on-the-fly versatility
Step sequencer inherited from the Electribe, MIDI sequencer, drum track, and an arpeggiator
Description
The surprisingly affordable, Korg KROSS-61 sports 61 synth-action keys, a truckload of class-leading sounds, and a host of powerful production tools - and it's all packed into a trim, fashionable red-and-black chassis that weighs under 10 pounds. This synth workstation will even run on six AA batteries, for those sunset jams on the beach! Loaded with features like a mic input, a built-in audio recorder, a 16-track MIDI sequencer, drum track, arpeggiator, and Electribe-derived step sequencer, the Korg KROSS-61 is the only keyboard you need.6. Korg MS20 Mini Semi-Modular Analog Synthesizer
Feature
Self-oscillating high-pass/low-pass filters with distinctive distortionExternal signal processor (ESP)
Flexible patching system
USB MIDI plus 5-pin MIDI
Voltage control oscillator is the source of all sound for the MS-20 synthesizer
Description
Korg didn't just bring back the MS-20; they didn't just shrink it down either. When Korg created the MS-20 mini synthesizer, they totally upped the anti. They started by turning to the same pair of genius engineers who created the original back in 1978 who meticulously rebuilt the MS-20 component by component, keeping it as true to the original as possible, while making minor tweaks where they felt necessary.7. Korg NANOKEY2BK Slim-Line USB Keyboard in Black
Feature
Low-profile, 25-key USB-MIDI keyboard, ideal for use with laptop and netbook computersAdvanced-design keybed offers improved accuracy and velocity-sensitive keys.
Sustain button - ideal for entering piano parts!
Description
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.8. Korg KROME 61-Key Music Workstation Keyboard & Synthesizer
Feature
Preloaded with 640 Programs, 288 Combinations, 900 Arp patterns, and more than 600 Drum groovesFeatures KRONOS-derived piano and drum sounds, plus new electric pianos for uncompromising quality
Features a library of unlooped stereo piano samples including German D, Japanese and more
Full-color Touch View display with advanced graphic UI delivers an intuitive and satisfying experience
Complete 16 track sequencer with touch-based piano roll editing, plus plug-in Editor software
Description
Korg is well-known for their keyboard workstations, and the Krome-61 gives you a powerful sequencing environment plus cutting-edge sounds from the acclaimed Kronos keyboard. If you're looking for stunningly-lifelike instruments, sounds, and drums, the Krome-61 is for you. Inside you'll find 640 sounds derived from the Kronos, plus 288 amazing combination sounds. For instant inspiration, you get a staggering 900 arp patterns and over 600 realistic drum grooves. You can produce a complete track entirely on the Krome-61, or you can use its incredible sounds with your computer-based DAW with the free, downloadable plug-in editor. No matter how you produce or perform, you'll love the results you get from the Korg Krome-61 keyboard workstation.9. Korg microKorg 37-Key Analog Modeling Synthesizer with Vocoder
Feature
Sound Generation Method: Analog Modeling Synthesis SystemSynthesizer Program: Multi Timbral=2 (max, Split/Dual Mode)
Voices: 4 voices
Arpeggiator: 6 types. Outputs: L/MONO, R, Headphones
Compatibility : Windows - 98 Second Edition, Me, 2000 SP2, XP. Mac OS - OSX10.6.8 or later
Description
The microKORG boasts the same dual-oscillator DSP synthesis engine found in Korgs critically acclaimed MS2000 and offers a wider selection of waveforms than any other modeled synth. Oscillator 1 features a total of 71 waveforms. These include 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 Korgs 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. You can also apply Ring and Sync modulation from Oscillator 2 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 include resonance. Two classic ADSR envelope generators and two MIDI-syncable LFOs provide the power to shape your sounds. Add a Virtual Patch matrix that lets you 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 in this price range!10. Korg microKEY 25 USB MIDI Keyboard
Feature
USB MIDI keyboard thin, lightweight, and USB-poweredVelocity-sensitive natural-touch mini-keyboard with excellent playing feel
Octave Shift and Key Transpose features access the full MIDI note range
Versatile controls include arpeggiator buttons, sustain/tap button, and joystick
No need to install a driver; just connect it to your computer, and it's ready for use
Description
The microKEY25 features excellent portability, allowing you to enjoy playing and producing with a great-feeling keyboard even when you're away from home. It features an expressive Joystick, as traditionally found on larger controllers, and provides simultaneous control of multiple parameters at the same time, along with control of the built-in tempo-synced arpeggiator function. Thats not all; the microKEY25 can be powered directly from your iPad via the Camera Connection Kit, and it can be immediately used to control MIDI-capable apps such as Korgs iMS-20. The microKEY25 also includes a download code for FREE Korg M1Le software, giving you all of the preset sounds and all of the PCM waveforms of the original M1, and a browser/search function that makes it easy to find that perfect sound. Also included are licenses for Applied Acoustics Systems' Strum Acoustic Session, Lounge Lizard Session, and Ultra Analog Session as well as a license for Toontrack's software drum sound module EzDrummer Lite, and a discount coupon for Ableton's Live, Live Suite, and Live LE DAW software, widely popular for its sophisticated functionality.11. Korg KROME 88-Key Music Workstation Keyboard & Synthesizer Bundle with Keyboard Stand, SD Card, USB Cable, Instrument Cable, Dust Cover, Sustain Pedal, Headphones and Polishing Cloth
Feature
88-Key ModelIdeal for any style of piano playing
Kronos-derived full length, unlooped piano and drum sounds, plus new electric pianos designed to shine on stage
Eight-level velocity switching for unmatched expressive power
Clear, intuitive control with Korg's exclusive 7-inch color TouchView display
Description
Adding value to your purchase, Austin Bazaar bundles your instrument with necessary accessories. Everything you need to start playing immediately comes in one box. Save yourself the hassle and save some money while you're at it. A stand is included so you don't need to purchase one separately. A dust cover is included so your instrument stays shiny and fresh. Headphones are included so you have an extra pair. An instrument cable is included so you have an extra. An Austin Bazaar polishing cloth is included so you can keep your new instrument in mint condition.Offering full-length, unlooped samples of every key for a spectacular piano sound, this new keyboard redefines your expectations for an instrument in this class. Taking its name from the Greek word meaning "color," KROME is the new standard for sonic excellence in a gigging musician's keyboard, providing a limitless palette of sound to bring vivid inspiration your music. Introducing the KROME Music Workstation.
Keyboard: NH (Natural Weighted Hammer Action) keyboard. *velocity sensitive is supported, after touch is not supported. *Standard A0 - C8 (transposabl
12. Korg microKase Keyboard Bag for microKorg and microKONTROL
Feature
Heavy nylon shellWebbing handles
Thick padding
For microKORG and microKONTROL keyboards
The microKASE also includes a detachable shoulder strap
Description
MicroKase Keyboard Bag for microKORG and microKONTROL. Korg's soft carry case made specifically for the microKORG and microKONTROL keyboards. The microKASE also includes a detachable shoulder strap.13. Korg MICROKORGPT Platinum Synthesizers & Workstations
Feature
Four-voice analog Modeling Synth engine; 128 Editable presetsEight-band vocoder with gooseneck mic; unique Formant Hold and Formant Shift features
Three effects - chorus/flanger, Phaser, and ensemble; three delay modes; two-band EQ
Retro-styling with solid wood end blocks, pitch & mod wheels - plus 37 mini-keys with velocity!
Interactive (No Suggestions); external audio processing; battery-powered portability