NAMM 2024KORG announces new microKORG 2 and KingKORG NEO Synthesizers
Korg has announced a new microKorg, the successor to the microKorg synthesizer first released in 2022. The microKorg earned a reputation as an affordable yet powerful synth, gaining popularity among various artists, including Tame Impala and The Prodigy. The microKorg 2 aims to retain the essence of the original while introducing several new features.
The microKorg 2 boasts a 2.8-inch color display, enhancing control over the synth's parameters and including animated effects and an oscilloscope view for visualizing patches. This successor maintains the virtual analogue synth engine of its predecessor, with an expanded eight-voice polyphonic architecture. It offers 512 presets across eight genre-labeled banks and includes 64 slots for custom patch memory.
Sound processing in the microKorg 2 is versatile, featuring modulation, delay, and reverb effects categories, along with a two-band parametric EQ. The synth continues the legacy of the original with its powerful vocoder and vocal processor, now including a goose-neck condenser microphone. New vocal processing capabilities include Auto-Tune-style pitch correction and a harmonizer, alongside a novel loop recorder for recording and layering compositions.
The microKorg 2 features a redesigned 37-key velocity-sensitive keyboard to enhance playability and provide a more natural feel. It maintains its portability, measuring 54cm in width and weighing just over 2kg, with the option to run on mains power or six AA batteries.
Connectivity options are comprehensive, including stereo line out, headphone out, MIDI in/out, aux in, two microphone inputs, a USB-C port, and a jack for a damper pedal.
Also announced is the KingKORG NEO, their new compact virtual analogue synth. This model, a refreshed version of the KingKORG, features 37 full-size keys and is equipped with an array of new sounds, a dynamic vocoder, and a modernized appearance.
The KingKORG NEO is designed to cater to the contemporary musician, blending a classic analogue-style synth layout with fast and intuitive editing capabilities. This design offers users an exceptional depth and flexibility in sound creation and manipulation. The synth is powered by the XMT sound engine and comes with a range of user-friendly features, making it more than just a synthesizer but a comprehensive tool for artists looking to delve into new soundscapes and expand their musical horizons.
Price: $999 from our friends at Sweetwater.
