Korg microKORG S

Originally released in 2002, the microKORG has become a world standard in analogue synthesis, and with the microKORG S has received an update to ensure it retains this position going forward. The design of the microKORG S is at once retro and modern – a soft white and coffee motif adorned with wooden maple side panels, grey touch pads and silver-tipped rotary knobs.

The unit itself contains a 2+1 speaker system inside its chassis – stereo speakers with a woofer to emphasise the low frequencies. The output of these speakers is far greater than would be expected for a synthesizer of this size, especially as they are all but invisible from the outside. Located beneath the instrument panel means the vibrations can be felt as they are played. The microKORG S can also be powered by batteries and so, with the addition of these internal speakers, can be used to perform in situations with no external power supply.

As would be expected for a modern synth, the memory capacity has been significantly increased alongside the scope of included functionality. The focus is still very much on clear and simple sounds but there are now more pianos, basses and synth leads to hear, up to 192 presets and 64 additional slots for user designed sounds. Up to eight of these sounds can be recalled instantly to the new Favourite Select function, further facilitating live application.

As versatile now as it ever was, the microKORG S continues to be an excellent stage synth or distinctive production module. Its expanded option set and vocoder with miniature microphone means it will always be under consideration for those wishing to continue their journey in analogue modelling synthesis.

Der kompakte microKORG S enthält ein sorgfältig konzipiertes System aus Stereolautsprechern mit transparenter Abbildung und einem Woofer mit verblüffendem Bass-Punch. Die neue Chassisstruktur mit ihrer Kombination aus viel Volumen und Bassreflexkanal bringt das Audiosystem voll zur Geltung und erzeugt ein breites Klangbild, klare Ortbarkeit und druckvolle Bässe. Als Ergänzung des batteriebetriebenen Vorgängermodells erlauben die integrierten Lautsprecher spontane uneingeschränkte Performances, auch wenn einmal keine Stromzufuhr oder PA verfügbar ist. Da die Lautsprecher im Instrumentenchassis enthalten sind, kann man die Schallschwingungen in den Fingerspitzen spüren. Durch dieses taktile Feedback entsteht ein ähnlich dynamisches Spielgefühl wie bei einem Akustikinstrument oder E-Piano.