The opsix mkII from Korg deliberately presents itself as an Altered FM Synthesizer, as its possibilities go far beyond FM synthesis and even include other forms of sound generation such as Filter FM and Wave Folder. A multimode filter with 11 filter models including the Korg classics MS-20 and Polysix. The sounds are given the finishing touch with the effects processor, which provides 30 cutting-edge effects for refinement or further alienation. The keyboard with 37 full-size keys is velocity- and release-dynamic, which enables very defined playing with regard to the flexible sound generation and modulation options. Depending on the algorithm used, the instrument has up to 64 voices.
Sound generation deluxe
The Korg opsix mkII has six modes that cover more than the classic FM synthesis, which is exemplarily represented with 6 operators and 40 different algorithms. Other sound generation modes include ring modulation, filter, filter FM and Wave folder. The instrument benefits from a total of 23 waveforms including noise, which can be integrated into the sound generation forms as desired. Classic waveforms such as sawtooth and square are also included. A digital multimode filter, which offers no less than 11 different filter models including the Korg classics MS-20 and Polysix, is used to process the elaborately created basic sound. Each of the 500 sounds in the opsix mkII is given its final touch with the effects processor. 30 effects from the areas of reverb, delay, modulation, distortion and more can be used to perfection. Don't feel like exploring sounds yourself today? Let the Randomize function inspire you: at the touch of a button, it dices up a completely new sound or refers to individual elements such as operators, algorithms or sequences.
Version mk II
The mkII version is equipped with 64 voices instead of the 32 voices of its predecessor, has a slightly improved keyboard and the revised design is now more greenish. Of course, the sounds are fully compatible within the opsix family.
Modulation & sequencer
In addition to the usual modulation sources such as velocity or the modulation wheel, three LFOs and three envelopes bring the already complex sounds to life. Anything that is not directly assigned or is to modulate more than one target can be animated with twelve additional entries via the modulation matrix. The polyphonic step sequencer allows sequences up to 16 steps long and records up to six controller movements (motion sequence) in the pattern. A versatile adjustable arpeggiator acts as a further playing aid.
Special features
In the past, complex FM synthesizers in particular had to make do with a minimum of controls, but the opsix mkII makes full use of them. This is very conducive to targeted sound creation and spontaneous changes can be made literally in the blink of an eye. The Display can also work as a spectrum analyzer or oscilloscope. The former shows simplified levels, frequency bands and the overtone structure, while the oscilloscope mode displays the final waveform visually.
Free music software
Korg provides a comprehensive software package as a free download for the opsix mkII. Please refer to the Korg homepage for changes and operability on Windows and Mac systems.
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