Korg offers compact, inexpensive monotron analog ribbon synth
(Dave Molter | Posted 2010-03-24)
Korg is no newcomer to the joys of analog synthesis. Back in the 1970s, our astounding fully polyphonic PS-3000 Series and our affordable semi modular MS Series set the bar for creative musicians around the globe. Surely one of the most popular of Korg's analog synthesizers was the coveted MS-20, famous for its dynamic sound creation capabilities and its fat, snarly, expressive filter. Kept popular by dance and electronic artists, this legendary MS-20 filter came back to life using the Component Modeling Technology in Korg's Legacy software collections. Now you can experience the glorious, evocative MS-20 filter along with true analog synthesis in Korgs new monotron Analogue Ribbon Synthesizer!!
Analog on the go!
Powered by two alkaline AAA batteries, the compact monotron can be held in one hand. Although small enough to easily carry with you, the amazing monotron is packed with KORG's legendary analog technology, generating thick and powerful sounds. Concentrating on the most important sound parameters, the controls have been streamlined as much as possible. The panel contains only five knobs and one switch. With this level of simplicity, now anyone can easily enjoy the world of analog synthesizers.
Product Highlights:
* Full-fledged, true analog synthesizer: VCO, VCF, LFO
* Inspiring, easy-to-play ribbon keyboard
* Intuitive, fun-to-tweak controls
* Features the same classic analog filter found in the legendary Korg MS-10 & MS-20
* Filter any external source using the audio input jack
* LFO can modulate either pitch of filter cutoff
* LFO Rate knob features cool LED visual indicator.
* Battery operation and palmtop size equals true portability
* Internal speaker/headphone jack lets you enjoy the sound anywhere alone or with friends!
Ribbon controller keyboard offers easy expression
Borrowing the enjoyment of performing with a simple touch from Korg's wildly popular KAOSS products, the monotron's ribbon controller keyboard takes this ease of use even farther. Simple finger gestures can produce expressive effects such as vibrato and glide. Used in a band, you can expand your possibilities by harmonizing with another instrument or taking center stage for a monotron solo!
1VCO, 1VCF, 1LFO Modular synthesis building blocks
The monotron's circuit is radically simple: one voltage-controlled oscillator, one voltage-controlled filter, and one low frequency oscillator. Since each knob directly applies a specific change to the sound, the process of sound creation is intuitive, and instantly understandable. Simple is best. Gone are the deep lists of presets and parameters typical of today's synthesizers. Instead, the monotron encourages exploration and experimentation. The monotron provides the joy of sonic creativity that's at the heart of analog synthesis, making it an ideal choice for someone who is new to synthesizers, or for musicians who wants to expand their sonic palette.
The famous Korg filter
The monotron uses the same highly acclaimed VCF circuit as KORG's classic MS-10 and MS-20 semi modular synthesizers. Originally released over 30 years ago, these instruments are still coveted today for their aggressive, dynamic filters. The VCF Cutoff knob sets the frequency or tone of the filter; the VCF Peak knob adds emphasis. A powerful filter is an essential aspect of any analog synthesizer, applying dramatic tonal changes to the sound, and projecting an intense personality that will stand out in any live performance.
Semi modular satisfaction
Just as on the original MS-20, the monotron's filter can be "patched into," allowing any external audio source to be processed by the monotron's filter. The input jack (AUX input) built into the monotron's compact body inserts the AUX input into the signal path right before the VCF. This provides a great way to connect a KAOSSILATOR, a keyboard, a guitar, a digital audio player or even an unmixed track to the monotron and enjoy tone-bending filter effects.
Versatile LFO provides audio and visual excitement!
You can switch the LFO to control either the oscillator pitch or the filter cutoff frequency. Both LFO Rate and LFO Intensity knobs are provided. As you turn the LFO Rate knob featuring an embedded LED the speed of the modulation effect and the speed of the blinking LED will change in tandem. Turning this knob can add another level of impact to your live performances.
Listen anywhere alone or with friends
A miniature speaker is built into the monotron. Along with the battery operation and compact size, this feature allows you to enjoy the monotron anywhere, at any time. The ultimate in compactness, this system brings you new possibilities for performance. There's also a headphone output that you can use when creating sounds at home, for recording, or for connecting to an amplifier or PA system.
The Korg monotron is an ideal choice for anyone who is new to synthesizers, or for musicians who want to expand their sonic palette. It will be available August 2010 with an MSRP of $85.
From information in Korg press release and on the Korg website: www.korg.com.
