Introducing the KORG volca drum - Welcome to an infinitely expanding world of sound-design

Published on Jan 14, 2019 Korg

Updates: Additional videos, audio demos, hi-res pics & details added below. Check out the SEQUENZ CB-4VOLCA Hard-shell case for up to 4 volts.

"Joining volca kick and beats as the third, and most unique, drum synth in the volca lineup.

The volca series is all about unique sound. Whether it's analog, PCM, or FM, the volca series puts unique sounds into an accessible platform. And now, the series is joined by a new rhythm machine that brings yet another sonic character. It's the volca drum digital percussion synthesizer."

Korg Volca Modular - Demo with Nick Kwas

Published on Jan 14, 2019 Kraft Music

"Find exclusive Korg Volca Drum BUNDLES at Kraft Music.

Nick Kwas Demos the Korg Volca Drum at Kraft Music.

The Korg Volca Drum is a digital percussion synthesizer and rhythm machine with a 6-part x 2-layer structure. Based on DSP-powered analog modeling, Volca Drum generates a wide range of unexpectedly different percussion sounds ranging from realistic to idiosyncratic, with wave folder, overdrive, and waveguide resonator effects. Volca Drum is equipped with the familiar 16-step Volca sequencer with parameter automation capabilities. Sync and MIDI in jacks allow for connection to other volcas, select Korg synths and sequencers, and DAWs. Like other Volcas, the Volca Modular features a built-in speaker and battery operation.

Get more for your money with an exclusive Korg Volca Drum bundle from Kraft Music. These package deals include the accessories you'll need to get the most out of your new percussion synth, all for one low price. If you have any questions, please give us a call. Our knowledgeable sales advisors will be happy to assist in choosing the bundle that's right for you!"

Korg Volca Drum Digital Percussion Synthesizer | Reverb Demo Video

Published on Jan 14, 2019 Reverb

"The synth masters at Korg just announced the Volca Drum, Minilogue XD, and Volca Modular. Starting with the Volca Drum, check out this video demo (as well as those linked below) to learn more about the features in these new offerings from the dream team that created so many of the top-selling synths on Reverb in the past couple years.
Read More on Reverb"

Korg Volca Drum Mega Tutorial

Published on Jan 14, 2019 cuckoomusic

"Korg Volca Drum is a percussive synthesiser from Korg, in the Volca range. I find it quirky and fun, when departing from the drum territory.
Here's a long tutorial, with a lot of flavours of what it sounds like, and how you can work with it."

"Welcome to an infinitely expanding world of sound-design.
Joining volca kick and beats as the third, and most unique, drum synth in the volca lineup.

The volca series is all about unique sound. Whether it's analog, PCM, or FM, the volca series puts unique sounds into an accessible platform. And now, the series is joined by a new rhythm machine that brings yet another sonic character. It's the volca drum digital percussion synthesizer.

Based on a simple trigger waveform, wave folder and overdrive are used to add overtones and distortion, and then a waveguide resonator effect brings the sound to life. The six-part DSP synth engine was designed with a completely different philosophy than conventional drum machines, and generates a wide range of unexpectedly different sounds. And of course, you can play those sounds from the volca-style sequencer.

Adding these distinctive sounds to your rhythms will revolutionarily transform your performances and productions.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Introducing the KORG minilogue xd: Analog Evolved - Details & Demos

Published on Jan 14, 2019 Korg

Update: Additional hi-resolution pics, audio demos, and full details added below.

"KORG minilogue xd is an evolved next-generation synthesizer with huge potential for sound design and performance. Building on the legacy of KORG minilogue, monologue, and prologue, minilogue xd emphasizes the same real analog sound and joy of controlling an electronic musical instrument offered by the original minilogue, while adding a new digital MULTI ENGINE from the Korg prologue, three stereo effects units, a powered-up sequencer with motion sequencing from monologue, and microtuning functionality with custom user scales.

We wanted to deliver a next-generation analog synthesizer for a new generation of musicians new to analog synthesis. That dream was realized in the development of the minilogue, which instantly made the analog synthesizer approachable.

In addition to emphasizing the same real analog sound and joy of controlling an electronic musical instrument offered by the original monologue, the minilogue xd newly adds a digital multi-engine, effects, a powered-up sequencer, and micro tuning functionality, further expanding the possibilities for sound design and performance potential."

Korg minilogue XD - Demo with Nick Kwas

Published on Jan 14, 2019 Kraft Music

"Find exclusive Korg minilogue XD BUNDLES at Kraft Music

Nick Kwas Demos and jams out on the Korg minilogue XD at Kraft Music.

The Korg Minilogue XD is a four-voice polyphonic analog synthesizer that offers huge potential for sound design and performance. Based on the accessible analog approach of the original Minilogue, the Minilogue XD is equipped with a digital multi-engine as a third oscillator in addition to a pair of analog VCOs. This hybrid sound engine is augmented by high-quality digital effects, a 16-step polyphonic step sequencer with motion sequencing, and a velocity-sensitive 37-note slim-key keyboard. Stereo output jacks, a damper/sustain pedal jack, and two CV input jacks provide versatile connectivity.

Get more for your money with an exclusive Korg Minilogue XD keyboard synthesizer bundle from Kraft Music. These package deals include the accessories you'll need to get the most out of your new poly synth, all for one low price. If you have any questions, please give us a call. Our knowledgeable sales advisors will be happy to assist in choosing the bundle that's right for you!"

Korg Minilogue XD Polyphonic Analogue Synthesizer | Reverb Demo Video

Published on Jan 14, 2019 Reverb

"The synth masters at Korg just announced the Minilogue XD, Volca Drum, and Volca Modular. Starting with the Minilogue XD, check out this video demo (as well as those linked below) to learn more about the features in the trio of new offerings from the dream team that created so many of the top-selling synths on Reverb in the past couple years.
Read More on Reverb"

"Analog synthesizer circuit that shatters expectations for its class

Four-voice polyphonic analog synthesis. The analog synthesizer circuit of the minilogue, whose genuine analog sound had a huge impact on the synth world, has been further developed for the minilogue xd.

Voice structure of minilogue xd is 2VCO + MULTI ENGINE, 1VCF, 2EG, 1VCA, and 1LFO. In addition to the distinctive circuits found in the series, such as wave shaping to shape the overtones of the oscillator and a sync/ring switch, there's also cross modulation, a sharp two-pole filter, and a drive switch that adds thickness and drives signal into minilogue xd’s filter. Every parameter has been tuned in detail based on what musicians want out of their synth. The sounds range from the warm pads typical of analog to fat basses and crisp lead sounds, covering every situation.

Of course, programs that you create can also be saved in the unit. Out of the box, minilogue xd comes loaded with 200 presets, and a total of 500 programs can be saved.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Waldorf Quantum Synthesizer - Full Demo with Nick Kwas

Waldorf Quantum Synthesizer - All Playing, No Talking!



Published on Dec 13, 2018 Kraft Music

"Find exclusive Waldorf Quantum BUNDLES at Kraft Music:
https://www.kraftmusic.com/brands/wal...

Nick Kwas from Korg USA plays the Waldorf Quantum at Kraft Music.

Waldorf Quantum draws on decades of development, borrowing from Waldorf's famed wavetable oscillator technology and combining it with a modern digital-analog hybrid architecture and sleek user interface to go beyond what was previously possible. Eight voices with three oscillators per voice (each capable of four synthesis algorithms), two analog lowpass filters per voice, and multitimbral splits and layers provide a wealth of sonic possibilities. Modulation options come courtesy of six LFOs and six loopable envelopes with multistage LFO/envelope modulator, while Quantum's multi-touch display offers visualization and deep sound-editing capabilities. Other features include a 61-key Fatar keyboard, internal memory and SD card slot for loading user wavetables and samples, arpeggiator and step sequencer, master effects, and versatile I/O options.

Get more for your money with an exclusive Waldorf Quantum synthesizer bundle from Kraft Music. These package deals include the accessories you'll need to get the most out of your new synth, all for one low price. If you have any questions, please give us a call. Our knowledgeable Sales Advisors will be happy to assist in choosing the bundle that's right for you!"

Korg Microkorg Platinum Limited Edition

Published on Oct 5, 2018 Kraft Music

"Find exclusive Korg Microkorg BUNDLES at Kraft Music:
https://www.kraftmusic.com/brands/kor...

Nick Kwas talks about the the Korg Microkorg Platinum Limited Edition at Kraft Music.

With its unmistakably unique exterior and its inimitable sound, the Korg microKORG set the standard for analog modeling synthesizers. In use everywhere from bedroom studios to the biggest stages, the microKORG synthesizer / vocoder delivers powerful sound and functionality in a compact package. Other features include 128 programs, a freely settable arpeggiator, controls designed for easy access, and an included mini-mic.

Get more for your money with an exclusive Korg microKORG synthesizer / vocoder bundle from Kraft Music. These package deals include the accessories you'll need to get the most out of your new synth, all for one low price. If you have any questions, please give us a call. Our knowledgeable Sales Advisors will be happy to assist in choosing the bundle that's right for you!"

Knobcon Event Schedule Released

The schedule for Knobco is live! You can find it below and on https://knobcon.com

Friday, Sept. 7

7:00pm to 11:00pm
Opening Reception
Sapphire Pavilion
Studio Dummies
Nick Kwas (Not Kwas)
Synthmania
Andre Cholmondeley vs Suit & Tie Guy

Visuals by
Erogenous Tones

Saturday, Sept. 8

10:00am - 6:00pm
Exhibits
Mahogany

Informative Workshops
Copper, Maize/Sage

DIY Workshops
Sienna I & II (Lower Level)

JAMMspace
Sienna III & IV (Lower Level)

6:30pm - 9:00pm
Knobcon Banquet
Sapphire Pavilion
6:30 Cocktails, 7:00 Dinner

Gil Trythall Keynote Address

Knobcon Supper Club All-Stars
featuring Ed & Judy Howard and Cory Flanigan

9:30pm
Knobcon Big Room
Sienna III & IV
Glacial 23
Conrad Keely
Nasty Nachos (WMD)
Ian Jorgensen (Synthstrom)
Spooky Action At A Distance

LED Wall with Visuals by
Various Artists

International Players Club
Sapphire Pavilion
Hosted by Matt Baxley

Sunday, Sept. 9

10:00am - 5:00pm
Exhibits
Mahogany

Informative Workshops
Copper, Maize/Sage

DIY Workshops
Sienna I & II (Lower Level)

JAMMspace
Sienna III & IV (Lower Level)

Korg Volca Mix With Monologue, Minilogue And Volca Sample

Published on Apr 5, 2018 Perfect Circuit Audio

"Korg's Nick Kwas played this jam in our studio with the Korg Volca Mix as the mixer for a Monologue, Minilogue, and Volca Sample, the Mini Kaoss Pad 2S is used in the effects send of the Volca Mix. The Volca Mix can power and mix together your Volcas as well as synching them all together and it has built in speakers.

Available here: https://www.perfectcircuitaudio.com/k..."

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Supporters of MATRIXSYNTH get %10 off at Perfect Circuit Audio!

NAMM 2018 Waldorf STVC String Synthesizer

Published on Jan 25, 2018 Kraft Music

"Find exclusive Waldorf STVC String Synthesizer BUNDLES at Kraft Music:
https://www.kraftmusic.com/brands/wal...

Nick Kwas From Korg USA a Waldorf distributor, demonstrates the Waldorf STVC String Synthesizer and Vocoder at the NAMM Show.

The Waldorf STVC is based on the Streichfett string synthesizer module. STVC combines the fat string sounds of Streichfett with a powerful vocoder. Housed in a rugged metal chassis, STVC features the same great 49-key keybed as the Blofeld keyboard. The simple panel layout provides immediate access to Solo, Strings, and Vocoder sections, as well as built-in effects.

Get more for your money with an exclusive Waldorf STVC string synth / vocoder bundle from Kraft Music. These package deals include the accessories you'll need to get the most out of your new synth, all for one low price. If you have any questions, please give us a call. Our knowledgeable Sales Advisors will be happy to assist in choosing the bundle that's right for you!"

NAMM 2018: Korg Prologue

Published on Jan 25, 2018 sonicstate

"We talk to Nick Kwas about the new poly from Korg"

You can find details on the new Korg Prologue here, and additional posts here.

KORG Officially Introduces the prologue: a New Generation of Customizable (SDK) Analog Synthesizers

Published on Jan 17, 2018 Korg
Update: this was originally posted at 10:07 PM Pacific. Moving it up as new videos from Kraft Music and Reverb have been added below.

The prologue-16 comes in at $1,999.99, and the prologue-8 comes in at $1,499.99.

The big surprise: "The prologue offers an SDK (Software Development Kit) that allows developers to program, customize and extend the capabilities of the multi-engine and digital effects and is expected to be available for download in the spring of 2018. The prologue provides 16 user oscillator slots and 16 user effect slots, and users can use the prologue Librarian software (also expected to be available for download in the spring of 2018) to load into their prologue new oscillators and effect programs created by developers with the prologue SDK (Software Development Kit)."

General description: "The ultimate multi-voice, multi-timbre and multi-engine is here. prologue is a fully-programmable, full-featured, professional synthesizer, preceded by the four-voice polyphonic minilogue and the monophonic monologue. Equipped with a full-sized keyboard and powerful analog circuits that are descended directly from the earlier models of the series, prologue expands the variety of sounds and the possibilities for user customization. The lineup is comprised of two models that cover musicians’ needs for not only stage use, but also studio, home, or touring use: 16-voice 61-key prologue-16, and the eight-voice 49-key prologue-8. These instruments are capable of sounds that go beyond existing analog synthesizers."

KORG prologue | A new-generation of flagship analog synthesizer (Teaser Trailer)


Two videos from one of our longtime sponsors, KRAFT Music:

Published on Jan 17, 2018 Kraft Music

"Nick Kwas performs on the Korg Prologue Polyphonic Analog Synthesizer at Kraft Music. Find exclusive Korg Prologue Polyphonic Analog Synthesizer BUNDLES at Kraft Music."

And one from our new sponsor, Reverb (this overview is different than the above):


Published on Jan 17, 2018 Reverb

"Introducing the Korg Prologue Polyphonic Analogue Synthesizer. Fully programmable, equipped with either a 49-key (for the 8-voice) or 61-key (for the 16-voice) keyboard, the Prologue is an ambitious instrument that builds off of the precedent set by the Minilogue. Join us as we explore the sonic functionality of the Prologue today.

Buy the Prologue 8: https://goo.gl/ZRCDWF

Buy the Prologue 16: https://goo.gl/T1VRQB

Read More on Reverb: https://goo.gl/DA9cEc"

KORG's SoundCloud Playlist for the prologue:

And the full details and pics via KORG:

"16/8-voice analog sound

The prologue is a polyphonic analog synthesizer with 8 or 16 multitimbral voices. KORG’s analog synthesizer development in recent years has culminated in the prologue, which was designed using 11,000 discrete electronic components. Although the prologue is a flagship instrument, it still retains the inviting feel and accessibility of its predecessors. It features a pure analog path, impeccable sound quality, stunning presence unlike any other poly synth, and the same intuitive interface as the minilogue and monologue, granting you intuitive access to a vast world of analog synthesis.

The prologue uses a structure of 2VCO + MULTI ENGINE, 1VCF, 2EG, 1VCA, and 1LFO. In addition to distinctive, original circuitry, such as wave shaping to shape the oscillator’s overtones and a sync/ring switch, prologue also features a two-pole low pass filter with enhanced sharpness, drive that adds powerful distortion, and a low cut (high pass) switch. Every detail has been improved on from minilogue and monologue. Its sound covers every sonic possibility: fat basses, powerful leads, and the beautiful pads that you expect from a polyphonic synthesizer.

Newly developed multi-engine

The ingenuity of prologue goes beyond its analog design. The newly developed multi engine is provided as VCO3, adding digital waveforms and FM. This multi engine, which is equipped with three different sound engines, can be combined with the analog VCOs to expand prologue’s sonic potential far beyond that of a traditional analog synthesizer.
Noise generator

There are four types of noise generator, indispensable for percussive sounds or sound effects. Experience how digital filtering can produce direct changes in the color of the noise.
VPM oscillator

The VPM (Variable Phase Modulation) / FM oscillator was newly developed for prologue. Its metallic and sharp sounds with their complex overtones could never be obtained by analog means. With 16 types of oscillator and the SHAPE knob, you’ll be intuitively guided through complex sound design. Combine these wave shapes with prologue’s gorgeous analog filters, and prepare for sounds you never thought possible.
User oscillator

The user oscillator section lets you load oscillator programs of your own creation. Sixteen slots are provided, and one type of morphing wavetable oscillator is built-in as a preset.

Digital effects

The high-quality digital effects feature pristine 32-bit floating-point processing, and add a further polish to the sound of the prologue. With two effect units provided (a modulation effect and delay/reverb), you can choose from a wide variety such as chorus or ensemble, warm tape delay, or diverse reverbs. The user effect slots let you load effect programs of your own creation.

"User-customization

The prologue offers an SDK (Software Development Kit) that allows developers to program, customize and extend the capabilities of the multi-engine and digital effects and is expected to be available for download in the spring of 2018. The prologue provides 16 user oscillator slots and 16 user effect slots, and users can use the prologue Librarian software (also expected to be available for download in the spring of 2018) to load into their prologue new oscillators and effect programs created by developers with the prologue SDK (Software Development Kit).

What types of sound will you create by combining the expanded digital oscillators with analog synthesis? You can create original programs and share code to participate in the user community. Start with sample code provided by KORG. The prologue belongs to you."

Analog comp/booster

The exclusive VU meter is available only on the prologue-16, and indicates the newly developed master effect L.F. COMP. It’s a low end booster/compressor using an analog circuit, delivering a solid sense of presence that cannot be obtained from a simple EQ. You’ll particularly notice the difference in high-volume stage performances where maximum dynamics can be utilized."

Monologue and Volca Kick Tips form KORG

Korg Monologue and Volca Kick: An Earth-Shaking, All-Analog Bass and Rhythm Section

Published on Mar 7, 2017 Korg

"Holding down bass- and kick- duties in force, the Korg Monologue and Volca Kick create a powerful, all analog rhythm section at a price accessible to a huge range of musicians. Synced via analog pulse for additional ease of use, Monologue and Kick shine in this video, where Korg’s Nick Kwas shows how to dial in a bass and kick pattern from scratch in seconds."

Korg Monologue Quick Tip: Audio Feedback Loop

Published on Mar 7, 2017

"With Korg Monologue’s external audio input, users can route Monologue’s own audio output back into its input, to pass through its built-in analog overdrive effect and powerful analog resonant low pass filter twice! Use this trick to generate a feedback loop, bring in external audio, or create powerful drones with just a single 1/4” patch cable."

Korg Volca Kick Demo with Nick Kwas

Published on Dec 28, 2016 Kraft Music

http://www.kraftmusic.com/brands/korg...

"Nick Kwas from Korg demonstrates the Korg Volca Kick/Bass Generator at Kraft Music.

The Korg Volca Kick is an analog kick generator with the ability to create a stunning range of kick drum and pitched kick bass sounds. Its all-analog circuit uses the oscillation of an MS-20 filter to produce powerful kick sounds with complex overtones, while Drive and Tone controls control distortion and sound character for even more variation. The Volca Kick's 16-step sequencer allows automation of all parameters, with a Touch FX feature to control sequence effects instantly with a single finger.

Get more for your money with an exclusive Korg Volca Kick BUNDLE from Kraft Music. These package deals include the accessories you'll need to get the most out of your new analog kick drum and bass synthesizer, all for one low price. If you have any questions, please give us a call. Our knowledgeable sales advisors will be happy to assist in choosing the BUNDLE that's right for you!"

Korg Volca Kick Performance with Nick Kwas


http://www.kraftmusic.com/brands/korg...

Korg monologue Video Overview

Published on Nov 29, 2016 Korg

"In this series of videos, Korg USA product specialist Nick Kwas explains Korg monologue’s oscillator, filter, LFO, envelope and micro tuning features as well as going over different user scales."

Modular on the Roof 5 - Nick Kwas (W A N D E R T A L K)

Published on Nov 14, 2016 pyrofiliac

http://wandertalk.bandcamp.com/

Follow me on instagram: http://instagram.com/nickkwas/

Executive producers Kali Keish and Adam Heege

Filmed, mixed, and edited by Nick Kwas

Korg ARP Odyssey Module Demo with Nick Kwas at Kraft Music

Published on Oct 6, 2016 Kraft Music

http://www.kraftmusic.com/brands/korg...

"Nick Kwas from Korg demonstrates the Korg ARP Odyssey at Kraft Music.

The ARP Odyssey duophonic analog synthesizer from Korg preserves the basic design of the original while offering evolved functionality for the modern musician. The original ARP Odyssey was produced from 1972 until 1981, and garnered a faithful following. With the advisory assistance of David Friend, the co-founder of ARP Instruments, Korg has completely reproduced the original circuitry for artists looking to recreate classic sounds and explore new ones. The filters of all three generations of the Odyssey are provided, as well as the portamento behaviors of Rev1 and Rev2/3. The Korg ARP Odyssey features a compact body, highly operable sliders, and a slim keyboard that's easy to play. New features include a Drive switch and both MIDI and USB connections. Patch cables are included for CV connections, as well as a custom semi-hard case. The ARP Odyssey keyboard is available in the Rev3 black/orange color scheme as well as limited edition Rev2 black/gold.

The ARP Odyssey Module provides the exact same panel and feature set as the keyboard version, with the same size layout, faders, and switches in a convenient desktop package. The Odyssey Module is available in both Rev1 "whiteface" cosmetics and Rev3 black/orange panel.

Kraft Music's exclusive Korg ARP Odyssey BUNDLES ship with all the accessories you need to go along with your new analog synthesizer. If you have any questions, please give us a call. Our knowledgeable sales advisors will be happy to assist in choosing the right money-saving synth BUNDLE for you!"

Korg ARP Odyssey Module Overview & Demo

Published on Oct 3, 2016 Synthtopia

"At Knobcon 2016, we talked with Korg product specialist Nick Kwas about the new Korg ARP Odyssey Module.

When the KARP Odyssey keyboard was introduced, a lot of readers said that they had enough keyboards - what they just wanted a Odyssey synth module. Korg seems to have been listening, because that's exactly what they've introduced.

In the video, Kwas gives us an overview and demo of the Korg ARP Odyssey Module.

This video is part of Synthtopia's Knobcon 2016 coverage:

http://www.synthtopia.com/content/tag..."

Switched On Pachelbel - Canon for Intellijel Atlantis, Dreadbox Erebus, Sequenced by Korg SQ1

Published on Oct 1, 2016 Nick Kwas

Korg Knobcon Jam With 6 Volcas & A Rubber Chicken

Published on Sep 24, 2016 Synthtopia

"At Knobcon 2016, we caught Korg's Nick Kwas jamming with 6 Volcas, a Minilogue and a rubber chicken.

He also gave us a breakdown of how he's using each device, including Korg's new Volca Kick."

Modular on the Roof - Improvising with Eurorack Modular Outdoors

Published on Sep 20, 2016 pyrofiliac

Playlist:
1. Modular on the Roof - Improvising with Eurorack Modular Outdoors
2. Modular on the Roof 2 - Dreadbox Erebus and Intellijel Atlantis sequenced with Korg SQ1
3. Modular on the Roof 3 - Colin Benders (Kyteman)
4. Modular on the Roof 4 - Myles Avery
5. Modular on the Roof 5 - Nick Kwas (W A N D E R T A L K)
6. Modular on the Roof 6: Sean Krames
7. Modular on the Roof 7 - Federico Chiesa (Oora)
8. Modular on the Roof Episode 8: Simone Pomposi [Pianosa]
9. Modular on the Roof 9: Collin Crowe
10. Modular on the Roof 10: Bubba Ayoub [Juggable Offense]