The Korg MicroKORG: Don't Call it 'Cute'What do Dr. Dre, Beck, LCD Soundsystem, The Killers, Death Cab for Cutie, and Kings of Leon have in common? Answer: They all use a microKORG. Everything about this fat-sounding analog-modeling synth screams 'future classic,' from its on-board vocoder, to its tiny footprint and retro-style wood case. Chances are, you'll be seeing (and hearing) more and more of this unassuming little monster, so let's take a look at what the Korg microKORG has to offer to indie bands, hip-hop producers, and electronica artists.This video showcases just some of the MicroKorg's powerful features.

Tiny Synth, Big SoundsFirst things first: if you're primarily a piano player, the microKORG's 37 mini-keys may take some getting used to. It's designed to be played one-handed, which means your other hand is free to manipulate the Pitch Bend wheel, Modulation wheel, and five fat knobs. To get started, choose one of 112 preset programs in seven categories: Trance, Techno/House, Electronica, Drum'n'Bass/Breaks, Hip-Hop/Vintage, Retro, and Sound Effects/Hits. You'll find that just about every synth sound you can dream up is represented here. Play the keyboard as you twist the knobs that control filter cutoff, resonance, envelope attack and release times, and arpeggiator tempo.

Ready to start making your own synth sounds? Start with an oscillator algorithm (such as sawtooth or square wave) and turn the knobs to edit your sound, then save your work in one of the banks. You can assign the five knobs to control any parameter in real time - just read their many functions written on the front panel. It's an excellent intro to the world of synthesis, and with no LCD screen to squint at, you'll forget you're dealing with a powerful DSP computer and start having some analog-style fun. The included manual's Quick Start guide will have you squeezing big sounds out of this little board in no time.Fun with VocodingNo doubt you've noticed the nifty condenser microphone that Korg has thoughtfully included, connected to the microKORG. And you couldn't really miss the big green 'VOCODER' setting on the Program Select dial, either.

That's right, the microKORG has a vocoder with a built-in mic, so you can process the signal produced by the microKORG in real time through one of the most dynamic filters on the planet: the human voice. Shift, stretch and distort your voice with this powerful processor. Could your latest composition use a little bit more robot from outer space? How about a fat chipmunk in an echo chamber?

Try all 16 of the included vocoder programs, or write your own vocoder program to the microKORG's memory and play it by pressing the keys, even when you're not vocalizing. Best of all, you can plug in any mic you like on a cord of any length, so you're not limited to standing in front of the microKORG when you vocalize into its vocoder on stage.Powerful ArpeggiatorThe microKORG's dual arpeggiator spreads out and repeats the notes of any chord you play in a looping pattern at any tempo you specify - a useful tool for making beats, or turning a simple one-handed bass-line into something much richer.

Choose from six built-in arpeggiator programs or build your own pattern, then adjust the knobs to control the length, spacing, and swing of the notes. You can set the arpeggiator to turn off automatically when you take your hand off the keyboard, or continue playing without you, and you can set it to play either of two timbres in your current synth program. Overall, it's a powerful and flexible tool that doesn't just sound cool, it provides a solid foundation to build entire songs. You don't have to have mad keyboard skills to make great sounds - just turn on the arpeggiator and get inspired!MIDI Implementation'Analog' as it may seem, the microKORG is a digital instrument, and it's fully MIDI-compatible. Have a full-size keyboard that you want to use to play the microKORG's sounds?

Connect the MIDI OUT of your external keyboard to the microKORG's MIDI IN, and you're off to the races. Or use the microKORG to play MIDI data into your DAW's sequencer. Korg MicroKorg Synth/VocoderState-of-the-art analog modeling and multi-band vocoding are finally available in a compact, portable instrument. With 37 keys and 128 user-rewritable programs, the MicroKORG Synthesizer/Vocoder is perfect for the performer, producer, computer musician, or beginner looking for an affordable synthesizer. The MicroKORG delivers the quality sounds and features you expect from Korg at a price that will astound you.Powerful SynthesisThe microKORG boasts the same dual-oscillator DSP synthesis engine found in Korg's critically acclaimed MS2000 and offers a wider selection of waveforms than any other modeled synth. Oscillator 1 features a total of 71 waveforms.

Roger Troutman Patch Microkorg Stand For Pc

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 Korg's 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 2 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!Classic VocodingThe microKORG includes an 8-band vocoder with many advanced features. You can capture and 'freeze' the formants of your voice, and then play it across the keyboard, or shift the formant frequency to make your voice sound male, female, like a child, or just plain wacky! Best of all, the microKORG comes with its own microphone so you can start having fun right away.A Full Range of EffectsThree types of modulation effects (chorus/flanger, phaser, ensemble), 3 types of delay effects (stereo, cross, L/R), and a 2-band equalizer add the finishing touch to the microKORG. The delays can be synchronized with the arpeggiator or to an external MIDI clock - a great feature for live performances or for laying down tracks. All effects can be edited to create your own, unique sounds.Great Sounds and ExpressionKorg has used all of the microKorg's synthesis power in the creation of 128 great-sounding presets.

They cover a wide range of musical styles plus many vintage favorites. Sixteen vocoder Programs are also included. The Pitch Bend wheel, Modulation wheel, and 5 other knobs provide flexible realtime control over filter cutoff, attack, release, and other important parameters.

The Edit Mode allows you to fully edit the existing sounds, or to create your own ones.Flexible ArpeggiatorSix types of arpeggio patterns (UP, DOWN, ALT1/2, Random, Trigger) are built in, with control over tempo, gate time, swing, and up to a 4-octave range. You can turn individual steps on or off within a pattern, providing the feel and functionality of a step sequencer.Audio InTwo external audio input jacks are provided, so you can run other instruments, CDs, and more through the microKORG's filter and effects, allowing you to process sounds in truly creative ways.A Compact MIDI ControllerThe microKORG's compact size is perfect for the musician or DJ looking to add a synth to his or her setup when space is tight. It's also a great choice for use in a computer-based music setup. The 5 real-time knobs on the front panel can transmit MIDI messages (control changes), so they can be used as controllers for software synthesizers.

Use the 37-note velocity-sensitive mini-keyboard for controlling other gear or for recording and editing with your sequencer. And thanks to battery-power, the microKORG is the ultimate portable controller when used with a laptop computer!Clear Control and Classic LooksThere's no complex menu structure - all parameters are located on the panel for easy access to any function. A large dial and LED illuminated buttons provide easy program selection even on a dark stage. With its beige-gold body, wooden side panels and retro-influenced design, the microKORG has a look that's both vintage and funky.Note: Specifications subject to change without notice.

Sound:This keyboard can make just about any synth sound you'd want it to make. Obviously it doesn't have anything like piano but that isn't what this keyboard is designed to do. It does, however have a pretty good electric piano imitation.Some of the bass sounds that come out of it are absolutely ENORMOUS and are ridiculous coming out of such a small package. All in all, it sounds GREAT.Feature:The vocoder with included mic is an awesome feature! The vocoder sounds so cool and is a great addition to the right tracks.Also, the keyboard has a lot of settings that can be changed, but it also has a light that lights up to let you know when you've set the setting you're changing back to its original value. Very helpful.Ease of Use:At first, all the knobs and the huge list of parameters can seem very overwhelming but it doesn't take long at all to figure how they work and how you can begin customizing your own sounds from the presets.

The small keyboard doesn't impede the playability at all, in fact it makes it easier sometimes, and if you want more keys you can always use a MIDI controller which is very easy to attach.Quality:While it is made of mostly plastic, it seems to be very tough for being plastic. If you put it in a nice case or bag, it seems very secure and I would not worry at all about it breaking. It seems like it would last for a very long time.Value:For the price this is an amazing little synthesizer - it looks and sounds a lot more expensive than it is.The Wow Factor:Every time someone sees my Korg, they ooh and ahh about how 'cute' it is, and then when they hear it they're like 'WOAH I WANT ONE.'

Also, the wood paneling and olive color give it a very cool retro feel. The size of the keyboard is awesome, too, it makes it extremely easy and convenient to transport.Overall:If I lost this keyboard or somebody stole it I would cry!

I would DEFINITELY purchase a new one. This keyboard makes the most amazing synth sounds and is SO FREAKING PORTABLE. You couldn't find a better keyboard that is easier to carry around, it weighs practically nothing and takes up no room, but it sounds fantastic.Style of Music: Rock/Electropunk. Sound:The sound on this little honey can BLOW YOUR MIND!!! Deep rich bass, or out of this world spacy leads, you will LOVE these sounds guaranteed!Feature:The features are what you would expect on a full size synth.

I like to hook my guitar to the line in, and use the vocoder as a spacey breath trigger. It even has some awesome built in effects like a flanger and delay.Ease of Use:I wont lie, there is a learning curve, especcialy with the matrix list on the far right, but once you understand it, it can only get easier to understand and work with.Quality:Left and right panels are made of real wood! The whole unit is made of plastic, and that kind of bugs me because its so fragile. Keep it in a case, and it should last you years to come.Value:What I love about the Value it that zZounds is that they gave me the LOWEST PRICE on this baby!! Guitar Center was selling theirs for 389.00, zZ gave it to me for 379.00!!!Manufacturer Support:I haven't had any problems with it yet but once I do I'll be sure to contact them and see how they are.The Wow Factor:This synth overall is just plain AMAZING!!! If someone broke into my house and stole it from me, I would grab a shot gun and go on a man hunt.

Stand

This synthesizer is just so cool, its almost exactly like the Korg MS2000, except smaller and with a few missing features, but all in all this is THE Synth to get if you are just starting out or if you need something for on the go or if you just want something to make a lot of noise in the house. JUST GET IT!!!! (I chose this over the Microkorg XL because I felt that this has a better user interface and sound than the other. The XL is great, but this had the sounds that I was looking for.)Overall:This little wonder can do it all. EVERYONE SHOULD HAVE ONE!!!Style of Music: Ska, Electronica, Classic Rock, Punk, Alternative/Progressive rock.

Need it now but short of cash? All we need is the first payment upfront and the rest in easy monthly payments!Fast approval.We approve everyone, with very few exceptions,as long as we can verify your identity.No interest. It's just as if you paid the whole amount up front! No paperwork. Nothing to track.No application to mail or fax, no bills to pay.We automatically charge the payments to your credit card.We'll wait on your money so you don'thave to wait for your gear!When you checkout, just click the Play as you Pay® checkbox toindicate which installment plan you wish to use. Need it now but short of cash? All we need is the first payment upfront and the rest in easy monthly payments!Fast approval.We approve everyone, with very few exceptions,as long as we can verify your identity.No interest.

It's just as if you paid the whole amount up front! No paperwork. Nothing to track.No application to mail or fax, no bills to pay.We automatically charge the payments to your credit card.We'll wait on your money so you don'thave to wait for your gear!When you checkout, just click the Play as you Pay® checkbox toindicate which installment plan you wish to use. ZZounds offers the industry‘s most musician-friendly payment planszZounds offers a variety of Play as you Pay® installment plans that allow you to get the gear you want today.

While our competitors might offer house credit cards that require you to fill out an application and pass a credit check, our payment plans are easy to get, simple to use, and, best of all, accrue zero interest. Unlike those house credit cards that can leave you vulnerable to exorbitant interest charges once the promotional period ends, we never have and never will charge interest when you take advantage of one of the zZounds Play as you Pay® plans.2. ZZounds guarantees the lowest priceSeen it for less somewhere else? Get it for less at zZounds. Simply click the “Seen it for less?” link on any product page and as long as we‘re not losing money, we‘ll beat any legitimate competitor‘s lowest price, usually within two hours. Want our best price even faster? Call us at 866-zZounds (866-996-8637), and we‘ll provide you with a lower price on the phone.

Also, if you purchase from us and later find the product for less elsewhere, call or within 45 days, and we‘ll refund you the difference.3. Nobody Beats zZounds‘ Fast & Free ShippingAt zZounds, we know you want your gear fast, and shipped to you free of charge. That‘s why we have absolutely free ground shipping on every single order shipped within the continental United States.

This includes heavy and oversized items. No minimum purchase required.

No exclusions. We also ship over 90% of our orders with FREE 2-day shipping.

We pull it all off with our strategically placed, coast-to-coast warehouses.4. ZZounds makes returns super easyBuy it, try it, like it, or return it to us for a full refund. It‘s just that simple. If you‘re not in love with what you bought, return it to zZounds within 45 days, and we‘ll promptly arrange for an exchange or a refund.

No hidden charges. And if a product‘s defective or damaged, call us at 866-zZounds (866-996-8637), and we‘ll email you a prepaid shipping label so you can easily return it to us at zero cost to you.5. ZZounds delivers top-rated customer servicezZounds has received multiple Bizrate ® Circle of Excellence Platinum awards, placing us in the top 0.7 percent of Bizrate‘s network of 5,200 retailers.

Our success in meeting the needs of our customers - since 1996, we‘ve satisfied over 1,000,000 people - is due in large part to the fact that zZounds only hires experienced musicians to answer your calls and emails, and they are never paid a commission. Need it now but short of cash? All we need is the first payment upfront and the rest in easy monthly payments!Fast approval.We approve everyone, with very few exceptions,as long as we can verify your identity.No interest. It's just as if you paid the whole amount up front! No paperwork.

Nothing to track.No application to mail or fax, no bills to pay.We automatically charge the payments to your credit card.We'll wait on your money so you don'thave to wait for your gear!When you checkout, just click the Play as you Pay® checkbox toindicate which installment plan you wish to use. A guarantee so solid, you never have to worry about price when shopping at zZounds We'll beat any priceSimply click the Seen it for less? Link next to the gearyou want or call us at 866-zZounds (866-996-8637) Got a coupon from another site? Use it with us - we'll beat those prices, too!

Find a better price after buying from us?No problem. We'll refund you the difference for 45 days,so you'll never regret buying from zZounds.You'll still get the trustworthy service you've come toexpect from zZounds, without paying more foryour gear!

Hey fellow keyboardists! I've recently added on a MicroKorg XL to my main rig (Nord Electro 2 + vent), and I'm somewhat at a loss when it comes to finding a useable stand or 2nd tier for it. I'm currently using a proline 400 double X stand with the add-on tierBut I'm finding that the tier does not 'bend' in enough to support the very small microkorg XL.

Perhaps Korg shouldv'e though of a Microstand!!!!Any suggestions?! I've thought of using a mixer stand or laptop stand, but haven't found a good one yet. Ideally, I'd like to use a 2nd tier that actually works. OK, to answer your questions:How much does the perspex weigh? Is it portable?It doesn't weigh too much - less than 1lb at a guess. In terms of portability, it is a little awkward for transporting to gigs because of course, it doesn't fold.Would it work on a proline double X style stand?No, it really needs to be supported across it's entire width.Do you think that reducing the angle would have made the NE2 panel less obscured while still making the Microkorg playable?Yes, but it probably would have hung over the nord keyboard a little bit more - but probably wouldn't have been an issue.If not, what would you have done differently?I've thought about this, and I'm not too sure.

There may be a way to position it a little further to the left. At the moment, it's limited in how far it can go, by the Nord's rubber feet. So one thing I might do, is drill two holes in it that the Nord's feet can go through.

It wouldn't fix the problem entirely, but it would expose a bit more of the Nord panel. You could also position it to the right which would cover the Nord panel less (although I mostly play the MK with my left hand).Oh and what did it cost you roughly?NZD180 - so around USD140 - more than I had hoped. I didn't shop around, and a one-off is always going to be expensive.More pics. That's pretty cool. I just moved to On-Stage stands after deciding that I am tired of fighting the Stantastics. The smaller footprint is great.I don't know what it is with me and stands. After using a Quik Lok monster for a while I tossed everything but the 550 base.

It is great for 88's but the second and third tier bounced way too much for my tollerance. Moved to a pair of Stantastics after hearing about them on the forum but they take more room than Neil Pert's drum set. Off to the dumpster they go.Re: HELP! Microkorg or Microkorg XL STAND?12/12/11 08:50 PM. Yeah, so for the tour I bought an X-stand (which was hard for me - because I really don't like them) and the On-Stage KSA8000 Deluxe Universal 2nd tier, that felix alerted me to above.It worked out OK.Pros:- stable- plenty of position options (angles/heights)- I can also fit my drum machine on the other pair of armsCons:- heavy, and awkward to transport (you can't lock the horizontal piece in a position, so it continually extends and collapses when you are moving it. It's a little over-done for the application, I reckon.

It could be made out of a lighter metal, or a thinner steel, given the weight of the gear it is likely to support.- 'invasive' attachment system. You have to remove the end-caps of the X-stand for the expanding-screw thing to attach the second tier.It did the job.

I still use my custom perspex stand at home because it's quite low profile and looks good.I still firmly believe that there must be a better way, and I'd love to see a lightweight, elegant, transportable stand developed for these little synths.Perhaps I'll have to do it myself. I used the Rockband 3 keyboard stand as my Microkorg stand. I'm a guitarist for a church band, and it's nice to have the synth up for parts that aren't as guitar driven. It was around 15 bucks on Amazon, and it works pretty well. It's not as bulky as an X brace, and you have more control over the height with it. It doesn't fit perfectly as the Rockband keyboard would, but it's steady and works fine. With some DIY I'm sure it could be even more secure.I couldn't find a stand I liked for my korg, so I decided to take a chance on that stand.

Hacking

It was definitely worth it.Re: HELP! Microkorg or Microkorg XL STAND?05/17/14 06:43 AM.

Posted :