This one in via Chrome. Likely not real and just a rumor, as KORG has been focused on the new KORG MS20 Mini and KingKORG synths. The design is more a throwback to the Roland TB series which KORG has not done in the past. Why copy Roland when they have their own vintage designs. There are no teasers on
the KORG site. You can find the latest KORG press releases
here.
New pics:
Pics are via
techhouse.sk - technika pre DJs a producentov za najlepšie ceny on Facebook
And more:
So we have the the Volca Keys, Volca Bass, and Volca Beats. The style is definitely looking more KORG than Roland in these new pics. Electribe and Monotron knobs, black cases and vintage orange KORG logo on the Volca Beats, & gold on black keys. Could these actually be real? If so, KORG have been some very busy bees...
Update 4/10/2013: They are real and only $150 each:
KORG volca series - 3 analogue synthesizers for the ultimate leads, basses, and rhythms
Published on Apr 10, 2013 KORGINC·352 videos
Brand new Korg Volca Series.
Published on Apr 10, 2013 Boris Pipiorke-Arndt·4 videos
Full Details:
"volca Keys - Analogue Loop Synth
volca Bass - Analogue Bass Machine
volca Beats - Analogue Rhythm Machine
Three true-analog synthesizers with built-in sequencers to generate the ultimate analog leads, basses, and rhythms
Following in the footsteps of the monotron, monotribe, and MS-20 Mini analog synthesizers, Korg announces the volca series. volca is a new lineup of EDM production tools comprised of three distinct models: the volca Keys lead synthesizer, the volca Bass synthesizer, and the volca Beats rhythm machine. These powerful and fun-to-use true-analog devices deliver a diverse array of fat sounds that can be obtained only from an analog synthesizer. Each is also equipped with sequencing/recording capabilities for intuitively generating performances. Multiple volcas can be used in tandem via the vintage-style sync in/out, and with your favorite DAW software or MIDI keyboard via MIDI In. Battery operation and built-in speakers mean that you can conveniently play anywhere and anytime. These are the next-generation analog synthesizers, bringing you the ultimate sounds and grooves with ease and depth. Whether used together or by themselves, the volca series is poised to inject true analog power into any performance or studio setup!
SYNC jack and MIDI IN connector allow synchronized performance with multiple units or with your DAW
By using the sync jack you can enjoy synchronized playback with multiple volcas or with a monotribe. You can also use the "SyncKontrol" iPhone app to wirelessly control tap tempo, swing settings, and synchronized playback with iOS music apps via WIST.
The MIDI IN connector lets you synchronize with other devices, as well as play the volca from any MIDI keyboard. You can also send note messages from your DAW and use the volca as an analog sound module.
Self-tuning function (volca Bass and Keys only)
Until now, the problem with analog synthesizers has been that the pitch would drift over time, or because of changes in temperature. Volca solves this by providing a Self-tuning function that constantly tunes the oscillators. You'll never need to tune during a performance, or wait for the pitch to stabilize after turning the power on.
Compact size, battery-powered operation, and built-in speaker for enjoyment anywhere
With its compact size, battery operation, and built-in speaker, it's easy to take the volca anywhere and perform any time.
volca Keys Analogue Loop Synth
The ideal introductory synthesizer, with a simple – yet powerful – polyphonic analog sound engine and loop sequencer
The polyphonic synthesizer you've been waiting for
Three note true analogue synthesis
Voicing function lets anyone create sounds easily
Delay effect for even more sonic possibilities
Simple loop sequencer
Loop sequencer lets you record phases just as you play them
Motion Sequencer records knob edits in real time
Active Step function and Flux function to add dynamic change to your sequences
Convenient functions for tremendous ease of use
Self-tuning function for constant, stable pitch
Sync In and Out allows clock sync of multiple instruments from the volca Series as well as Korg's Monotribe
Compact size, battery-powered operation, and built-in speaker for enjoyment anywhere
Volca Keys is a long-awaited synthesizer that adds a new chapter to the long and storied history of Korg's analog synthesizers. This 27-key analog lead synth delivers unbelievably powerful sound in a compact body. Starting with a filter section that uses the circuitry of the legendary miniKORG700S (1974), it delivers astonishing sound that takes full advantage of Korg's half-century of know-how in circuit design.
With a simple structure that includes delay effect and a sequencer, it's also an ideal choice for a first analog synth. It offers the richly expressive sounds that are distinctive of analog, providing the enjoyment of simple yet deep sound-creation. The possibilities are endless; you can use the three oscillators to play chords, use them in unison with detune to produce solid lead lines, or apply ring modulation to create far-out metallic sounds.
volca Bass Analogue Bass Machine
Powerful analog bass sound creation and an Electribe-inspired sequencer for the ultimate bass lines
Powerful analog bass sound
Three analogue oscillators for thick, huge bass line
Newly designed analog filter for crisp, bright response
Simple structure with single VCF, VCA, LFO, and EG
Loop sequencer distilled from the Electribe series
Electribe-style 16-step sequencer with eight memory patches
Slide function that’s indispensable for acid and other types of electronic music
Active Step function generates new bass lines by removing or inserting steps
Convenient functions for ease of use
Self-tuning function for constant, stable pitch
Sync In and Out allows clock sync of multiple instruments from the volca Series as well as Korg's Monotribe
Go-anywhere analogue: play anywhere with the built-in speaker and optional battery power
Aggressive sounds that stand up to the drums; fat sounds that support the rhythm; funky sounds that generate a groove - the volca Bass is an analog groove box that has what you need for a wide range of bass lines.
Although simple in structure, the analog sound engine has an unmistakable presence with subtle nuances that cannot be reproduced by a digital simulation; it's a great choice for acid house and many other styles of music. The step sequencer distilled from the Electribe is not only visually intuitive; it's also a powerful way to generate "free form" bass loops that will stimulate your inspiration.
volca Beats Analogue Rhythm Machine
Peerless beats generated by solid analog drum sounds and an Electribe-style sequencer
Powerful analog drum sounds
Real analog sounds created with reference to classic rhythm machines
Six editable analogue parts with one knob per function for easy editing
Maximum effect from minimal parameters - a unique advantage of analog
PCM sound engine expands possibilities when used with analog sounds
Loop sequencer distilled from the Electribe series
Electribe-style 16-step sequencer with eight memory patches
Stutter function generates repeated triggers that dramatically change the sequence
Active Step function generates new bass lines by removing or inserting steps.
Step Jump function instantly plays only the step you're pressing
Convenient functions for incredible ease of use
Sync In and Out allows clock sync of multiple instruments from the volca Series as well as Korg's Monotribe
MIDI In for note entry, plus external sync and control from your DAW
Go-anywhere analogue: play anywhere with the built-in speaker and optional battery power
Even today, more than thirty years after the age dominated by analog synthesizers, we just can't let go of the sound of analog rhythm machines. Those thick sounds have the power to stand up to guitar and acoustic drums, and are still indispensable for track-making or live performance. The volca Beats gives you those analog drums plus the easy-to-use step sequencer of the Electribe; it lets you turn your inspiration into reality and generate beats with the best high quality sounds.
Specifications
volca Keys : SPECIFICATIONS
Keyboard
Multi-touch Keyboard
Synthesizer
Type :
Analog synthesis
Maximum Polyphony:
3 voices
Structure:
3VCO, 1VCF, 1VCA, 1LFO, 1EG
VCO:
Octave, Ring Modulation, Detune, Portamento, EG Intensity
VCO Waves:
Sawtooth, Square
VCF:
Cutoff, Peak, EG Intensity
VCF Type:
Low Pass Filter, 12 dB/oct
LFO:
Rate, Pitch Int, Cutoff Int, Wave (Sawtooth, Triangle, Square)
EG:
Attack, Decay/Release, Sustain
Effects
Delay: Time, Feedback, Temp Sync
Sequencer
Number of parts:
1
Number of Steps:
16
Number of Recording Patterns:
8
Connectors
Audio Output:
Headphones (1/8” stereo mini jack)
Sync:
Sync In (1/8” monaural mini jack, Maximum input level: 20V)
Sync Out (1/8” monaural mini jack, Maximum Output level: 5V)
MIDI:
In
Power
Power supply:
6 AA alkaline or AA nickel-metal hydride batteries
or KA-350 AC adapter (optional)
Battery Life:
Approximately 10 hours (using alkaline batteries)
Dimensions (W x D x H)
193 × 115 ×46 mm / 7.61 x 4.54 x 1.81 inches
Weight
377 g / 0.83 lbs (Excluding batteries)
Others
Options:
KA-350 AC adapter
Accessories:
AA alkaline battery ×6 (for verifying operation)
* Specifications and appearance are subject to change without notice for improvement.
volca Bass : SPECIFICATIONS
Keyboard
Multi touch Keyboard / step key
Synthesizer
Type:
Analog synthesis
Structure:
3VCO, 1VCF, 1VCA, 1LFO, 1EG
VCO Waves:
Saw, Square
VCF:
Cutoff, Peak, EG Intensity
VCF Type:
Low Pass Filter, 12 dB/oct
VCA:
EG on/of, Sustain on/off
LFO:
Rate, Intensity, Target (Amp, Pitch, Cutoff), Wave (Triangle, Square)
EG:
Attack, Decay/Release, Sustain
Sequencer
Number of parts:
3
Number of Steps:
16
Number of Recording Patterns:
8
Connectors
Audio Output:
Headphones (1/8” stereo mini jack)
Sync:
Sync In (1/8” monaural mini jack, Maximum input level: 20V)
Sync Out (1/8” monaural mini jack, Maximum Output level: 5V)
MIDI:
In
Power
Power supply:
6 AA alkaline or AA nickel-metal hydride batteries
or KA-350 AC adapter (optional)
Battery Life:
Approximately 10 hours (using alkaline batteries)
Dimensions (W x D x H)
193 × 115 × 46 mm / 7.61 x 4.54 x 1.82 inches
Weight
370 g / 0.82 lbs (Excluding batteries)
Others
Options:
KA-350 AC adapter
Accessories:
AA alkaline battery ×6 (for verifying operation)
Specifications and appearance are subject to change without notice for improvement.
volca Beats : SPECIFICATIONS
Keyboard
Multi touch trigger pad / step key
Synthesizer
Type:
Analog synthesis (Kick, Snare, Hi Tom, Lo Tom, Closed Hi Hat/Open Hi Hat)
PCM synthesis (Clap, Claves, Agogo, Crash)
Kick:
Click, Pitch, Decay, Part Level
Snare:
Snappy, Pitch, Decay, Part Level
Tom:
Hi Pitch, Lo Pitch, Decay, Part Level
Hi Hat:
Closed Decay, Open Decay, Grain, Part Level
PCM:
PCM Speed, Part Level
Sequencer
Number of Parts:
10
Number of Ssteps:
16
Number of Recording Patterns:
8
Connectors
Audio Output:
Headphones (3.5mm stereo mini jack)
Sync:
Sync In (1/8” monaural mini jack, Maximum input level: 20V)
Sync Out (1/8” monaural mini jack, Maximum Output level: 5V)
MIDI:
In
Power
Power supply:
6 AA alkaline or AA nickel-metal hydride batteries
or KA-350 AC adapter (optional)
Battery Life:
Approximately 10 hours (using alkaline batteries)
Dimensions (W x D x H)
193 × 115 ×45 mm / 7.61 x 4.54 x 1.78 inches
Weight
372 g / 0.82lbs (Excluding batteries)
Others
Options:
KA-350 AC adapter
Accessories:
AA alkaline battery ×6 (for verifying operation)
Specifications and appearance are subject to change without notice for improvement."
Update2 1/10/2013: The official Press Release:
"Korg Announces the Volca Series of Analog Synthesizers
-True-analog synthesizers with built-in sequencers are designed
to generate the ultimate analog leads, basses, or rhythms-
Musikmesse, Frankfurt, Germany, April 10th, 2013 - Korg USA has announced the Volca series of portable, true-analog synthesizers. Following in the footsteps of the Korg Monotron, Monotribe, and the MS-20 Mini synth, these next-generation true-analog instruments offer on-the-go sounds and grooves along with MIDI functionality. The series is comprised of three models: the Volca Keys lead synthesizer; the Volca Bass synthesizer; and the Volca Beats rhythm machine.
All models provide carefully selected parameters that allow users to create the distinctive, massive sounds that can only come from a true analog synthesizer. Each instrument features a loop sequencer for intuitively generating and recalling phrase-based performances. Multiple Volcas can be used in tandem thanks to vintage-style sync in/out, or with the user's DAW software via MIDI In. Convenient, optional battery operation and built-in speakers provide the ability to play anywhere at any time.
The Volca Keys represents a new chapter in Korg's long history of analog synthesizers. This 27-key analog lead synth generates sound that's more powerful than its compact, low-profile body would suggest. Its three oscillators can be tuned against each other in a variety of ways-from one part unison to three-part chords-to provide the versatility needed to create a diversity of sounds. With a filter section that utilizes the circuitry of the classic miniKORG700S (1974) plus an easy-to-use interface that includes delay effects and a 16-step sequencer, Volca Keys offers the richly expressive sounds that are distinctive of an analog synth, and combines the enjoyment of basic sound creation with deep functionality.
The Volca Bass is an analog bass line groove box that's capable of generating a wide range of bass lines. Though basic in structure, the analog sound engine has an unmistakable presence with subtle nuances that cannot be reproduced by a digital simulation, making it ideally-suited for acid house and many other styles of electronic music. Its step sequencer-distilled from Korg's Electribe series-offers a convenient, visually intuitive way to generate "free form" bass loops to stimulate inspiration. The three oscillators can be combined in several ways via a voicing function, to generate a variety of thick and modulated bass sounds.
The Volca Beats offers six fat analog drum sounds: Kick, Snare, Hi Tom, Lo Tom, Closed Hi Hat, and Open Hi Hat. It contains a wide array of sound variations that could not be produced by any means other than analog, with special emphasis on the sounds that are considered indispensable for dance music. A PCM sound engine is also included for generating clap, crash and others sounds that are better suited for PCM. Simple knob-based parameters can be used to quickly create a variety of drum sounds. For example, simply by using the three knobs (Click, Pitch, and Decay), a variety of kick sounds can be crafted, ranging from rough sounds that dominate the low range to tight sounds that keep a precise beat. In addition, a 16-part sequencer is included to easily add or remove parts.
The Volca series will be available in July 2013 for a U.S. street price of $149.99 each. Additional product information is available at Korg.com"
Update3 4/10/2013: The first set of new Volca videos:
Musikmesse 2013: Korg Volca analogue grooveboxes
Published on Apr 10, 2013 FutureMusicMagazine·266 videos
"At Musikmesse 2013, Korg show us Volca Beats, Volca Bass and Volca keys - their new range of analogue grooveboxes."
Korg Volca Grooveboxes Video at Musik Messe
Published on Apr 10, 2013 sonicstate·462 videos
"MESSE13: Korg Volca Grooveboxes Vide0 Drums, B-line and analog poly - yes poly"
Musikmesse 2013 - Korg Volca Bass, Keys und Beats
Published on Apr 10, 2013 musotalk·858 videos
Update4:
Published on Apr 10, 2013 Steelberry·33 videos
"The three new groove boxes from KORG - the Volga boxes - featured at MusikMesse
Run through of the capabilities and features
Steelberry Clones at MusikMesse
Copyright Stereoklang Produktion"
Update5:
Musikmesse 2013: Korg Volca Serie angespielt!
Published on Apr 11, 2013 justmusicvideo·70 videos
"Mehr News von der Musikmesse 2013: http://blog.justmusic.de
Boris Pipiorke-Arndt stellt auf der Musikmesse 2013 drei neue Miniatur Synthesizer vor: Volca Keys, Volca Bass und Volca Beats."
Musikmesse 2013: Korg Volca Serie
Update6:
Musikmesse 2013: Korg Volca Keys
Published on Apr 10, 2013 DeBugVideo·6 videos
"Trying out the Korg Volca Keys at Musikmesse 2013"
Udpate7:
Messe13: Korg Volca Keys - Direct sound recording
Published on Apr 12, 2013 FrequencyTestSystem·70 videos
"Sound impression of the Korg Volca Keys. Recorded directly from the Volca Input. Not mastered or FXed."
messe13: Korg Volca Beats - Direct Recording
Published on Apr 12, 2013 FrequencyTestSystem·70 videos
"Korg Volca Beats - Sound impression recorded directly from the output. I don't know if this is only with THIS model at Messe but the volume was really low. In the video the volume was raised by 6.4dB, no other mastering or FX took place."
MESSE13: Korg Volca Bass
Published on Apr 12, 2013 FrequencyTestSystem·71 videos
"Korg Volca Bass - Direct Sound Recording - Sound impression not mastered or FXed."
Update8:
MESSE13: Korg Volca Bass sound impressions (sound corrected version)
Published on Apr 14, 2013 FrequencyTestSystem·73 videos
"Korg Volca Bass (protoype) - recorded directly from the input (for real this time, sorry for the earlier mistake). I took the liberty to raise the recorded volume by +4db, no other mastering or FX took place."
Korg Volca series - Musikmesse 2013
Published on Apr 14, 2013 soundonsoundvideo·586 videos
"Korg have built on the success of their Monotron and Monotribe with a new family of analogue boxes. There are three new units: Volca Beats, a rhythm station with TB808-style drum sounds; Volca Bass, a TR303-style bass synth/sequencer; and Volca Keys, a three voice polyphonic lead synth. All include an in-built Electribe sequencer, effects, MIDI input (including MIDI sync) and analogue sync for synchronising with each other, and with Korg's hugely popular Monotribe units."
Update9:
Musikmesse 2013: Korg Volca Serie angetestet und erklärt
Published on Apr 16, 2013 DJlabde·72 videos
Jump to 3:15 for the jam demo.
"Mehr News von der Musikmesse 2013: http://www.dj-lab.de/
Boris Pipiorke-Arndt demonstriert auf der Musikmesse 2013 die drei neuen Miniatur Synthesizer Volca Keys, Volca Bass und Volca Beats von Korg."
via sequencer.de (Googlish here). [Note a new version is available, see the second update further below]
