Korg today expanded their Monotron line, adding a new synth and a delay effect:

The Monotron DUO is a dual-oscillator mini-synth, inspired by the classic Mono/Poly.

is a dual-oscillator mini-synth, inspired by the classic Mono/Poly. The Monotron DELAY combines analog synthesizer with a built-in delay effect.

The two new devices keep the form factor of the original Korg Monotron and list for about $60. Yes, we’re talking analog synth stocking stuffers!

Here are the details on the new Monotrons. Check them out and let us know what you think!

Monotron DUO Features:

Two analog oscillators (VCO) with individual tunings

Edgy X-MOD (with Intensity knob) circuit from Korg’s classic Mono/Poly

VCF with Cutoff and Peak Control

Ribbon controller keyboard with Scale Select

Original Analog (VCF) Filter taken from the MS-10 & MS-20

Aux input jack lets you apply filter to any audio source

Built-in speaker and battery power

Headphone jack for private use

Dual Oscillator / X-Mod Design

The X-MOD (cross modulation) circuit taken from Korg’s classic Mono/Poly can introduce a mild or razor-sharp edge to the overall sound; everything from a rich vibrato to extreme metallic sounds reminiscent of an FM synth.

The monotron DUO’s ribbon controller keyboard now features the familiar Scale function used on the KAOSSILATOR. You can use this button to select one of four scales: Chromatic, Major, Minor, or Off. Choose the Chromatic scale to play precise pitches as on a piano, or choose Major or Minor to create phrases by simply sliding your finger around on the keyboard.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CNXOI1AIjKo

Monotron DELAY Features:

Space Delay with Rate and Intensity controls offers analog-style echoes

New Pitch LFO with selectable Waveshape and Intensity and shape controls

VCF with Cutoff Control

Wide-range ribbon controller keyboard

Original Analog (VCF) Filter taken from the MS-10 & MS-20

Aux input jack lets you apply filter and delay to any audio source

Built-in speaker and battery power

Headphone jack for private use

The Monotron DELAY is described as ‘an analog synthesizer optimized for sound effects’.

In addition to its analog oscillator, filter, and LFO, it also provides a Space Delay, for ‘swooping, cosmic sounds’. The monotron DELAY reproduces the pitch changes that occur when you vary the delay time, as though you were using an analog tape echo. As with the filter, the delay effect can be added to any external sound via the Aux In jack.

The Low Frequency Oscillator (LFO) waveform used to modulate the pitch now offers a choice of waveshapes – a new square wave plus the traditional triangle wave. Both the Rate (Speed) and the Intensity (Depth) can be adjusted independently. In addition, a trimpot on the back panel can continuously adjust the shape/direction of the triangle wave or the pulse-width of the square wave to deliver even more versatility. Used in conjunction with the delay, the LFO can create dazzling effects and provide unique possibilities for embellishing your songs.

The monotron DELAY’s ribbon controller keyboard features a wide, four-octave range. The reversed white keys and body adornments also glow under black light illumination.