Musikmesse 2010: Here’s something you probably didn’t expect – a new analog synth from one of the major music manufacturers – the Korg Monotron.

The Korg Monotron is designed to deliver classic analog sound inexpensively, but has a limited control set and consumer-style build quality.

Korg Monotron Features:

Full-fledged, true analog synthesizer: VCO, VCF, LFO

Ribbon keyboard

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 LED visual indicator.

Battery operation and palmtop size

Internal speaker/headphone jack

The remains to be seen how well the Korg Monotron plays with others – and how hackable it is.





The Korg Monotron will be available August 2010 with an MSRP of $85.00.

Check it out and let us know what you think!

It’s surprisingly tiny!

Korg Monotron Specifications:

Audio Path:

VCO, VCF, LFO

Knobs:

VCO Pitch; LFO Rate; LFO Intensity; VCF Cutoff; VCF Peak

LFO Switch:

Assignable to Oscillator Pitch or Filter Cutoff

Controller:

Ribbon Controller

Volume:

Headphone Volume

Aux Input:

1/8″ Stereo Jack

Headphone Output:

1/8″ Stereo Jack

Speaker:

Miniature internal; Disabled when headphones are in use.

Power Supply:

AAA Alkalines (x2)

Dimensions:

120 mm (W) x 72 mm (D) x 28 mm (H) / 4.72″ (W) x 2.83″ (D) x 1.10″ (H)

Weight:

95g / 3.35 oz. (without batteries)

Description:

Powered by two alkaline AAA batteries, the compact monotron can be held in one hand. Although small enough to easily carry with you, the monotron is packed with KORGs 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.

Borrowing the enjoyment of performing with a simple touch from Korgs wildly popular KAOSS products, the monotrons 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!

The monotrons 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 presetsand parameters typical of todays synthesizers. Instead, the monotron encourages exploration andexperimentation. 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 expandtheir sonic palette.

The monotron uses the same highly acclaimed VCF circuit as KORGs 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.