Korg'sopsix SE deliberately introduces itself as an Altered FM synthesizer, as its capabilities go far beyond FM synthesis and even include other sound generation forms such as Filter FM and Wave Folder, among others. A multimode filter with 11 filter models including the Korg classics MS-20 and Polysix adds sonically relevant details to the originally filterless sound generation. The final touch is given to the sounds with the effects processor, which has 30 cutting-edge effects ready for refinement or further alienation. The keyboard with 61 full-size keys has aftertouch and is velocity- and release-dynamic, which allows a very defined play with regard to the flexible sound generation including the modulation possibilities. Depending on the algorithm used, the instrument has up to 80 voices.
The SE version
The most striking feature of the SE version of the opsix is the much bigger case with a noble, dark metal panel. The 61 key keyboard is now also equipped with aftertouch and instead of the maximum 32 voices there are now up to 80 voices. To underline the exclusivity of the SE version, an attractively designed transport case is included, which protects the opsix SE optimally on the road.
Tone generation deluxe
The Korg opsix SE has six modes that cover more than classic FM synthesis, which is exemplarily represented with 6 operators and 40 different algorithms. Other tone generation modes include ring modulation, filter, filter FM, Wave folder and effect. The instrument benefits from a total of 23 waveforms including noise, which can be integrated into the sound generation forms as desired. Classic waveforms like sawtooth and square are also among them. The elaborately created basic sound is processed by a digital multimode filter, which offers no less than 11 different filter models including the Korg classics MS-20 and Polysix. The final touch is given to each of the 500 sounds in the opsix SE with the effects processor. 30 effects from the areas of reverb, delay, modulation, distortion and more can be used to the point. Today no desire to go on sound research yourself? Let yourself be inspired by the randomize function: at the touch of a button, this dices a completely new sound or refers to individual elements such as operators, algorithms or sequences.
Modulation & Sequencer
In addition to the usual modulation sources such as aftertouch, Velocity or the modulation wheel, three LFOs and three envelopes bring life to the sounds, which are complex in themselves. What is not directly assigned or should modulate more than one destination can be animated via the modulation matrix with twelve additional entries. 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
While in the past complex FM synthesizers had to make do with a minimum of controls, the Korg opsix SE draws from the full range. This is very conducive to targeted sound building, and even 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 displays levels, frequency bands and the harmonic structure in a simplified way, the oscilloscope mode displays the final waveform visually.
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