COMPANY PRESS CONTACT: Leslie Buttonow – Korg USA [email protected]
For Immediate Release
Korg USA Announces King Korg Analog Modeling Synth
WINTER NAMM, ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA, January 24th, 2013 - Korg USA announces the King Korg analog modeling synth. Focused on live performance, it features Korg’s new XMT (Xpanded Modeling Technology) engine, with many types of oscillators and filters that can accurately model sought-after vintage analog synths. With its controls laid out in easily identifiable sections, King Korg delivers the unique characteristics of a dedicated synthesizer, while remaining approachable to players who are new to synthesizers. It not only shines on stage with high quality sound, but also with a champagne gold finish befitting its royal name.
A 3-oscillator, 2-timbre design allows players to generate thick and rich sounds. In addition to essential waveform choices such as sawtooth, square, sine, triangle, and noise, King Korg provides pre-set algorithms that contain various combinations of oscillator numbers and types, for easily and quickly sculpting stage-ready sounds. The oscillator algorithms also include numerous PCM/DWGS algorithms for creating highly personal sounds.
The filter section is crucial to a synthesizer's character, and King Korg’s filters add unparalleled flexibility. In addition to a variety of essential analog modeling filter types, there are faithful filter models from analog monophonic synths that were used for lead and bass sounds in the '70s, as well as the polyphonic synths used in new wave music of the '80s, plus the filters of Korg's classic MS-20 analog synth. These filters can also be made to self-oscillate by raising the resonance setting– a unique capability of analog synthesizers. •1•
A selection of 200 stage-ready preset programs includes many familiar and authentic sounds for playing classic and modern songs, plus fresh, inspiring sounds for new musical creations. An assortment of live performance staple sounds includes PCM–based piano, electric piano, organ, and clavinet. Users can store their own creations in 100 onboard user sound locations.
Each of three master effect sections offers a choice of six effect types: PRE FX such as distortion and amp simulator; MOD FX, including phaser, chorus, and tremolo; and REV/DELAY such as hall reverb and modulation delay. A full-analog vacuum tube driver circuit is also included as a mastering effect. It can be used to add warm fullness, a powerful overdrive, or anything in between. In addition, a built-in, full-featured vocoder uses audio from the onboard mic input to create a talking effect.
Many classic synthesizers used patch cables to physically reconfigure the signal flow. King Korg’s intuitive Virtual Patch system reproduces this function. With six Virtual Patch assignments per timbre, control signals such as EG, LFO, or joystick movement can be virtually connected to sound parameters such as pitch or cutoff, allowing users to modulate a parameter for even greater sound-shaping possibilities.
King Korg’s design makes it easy to create and modify sounds. The oscillator section has its own dedicated display, and the control knobs are assigned to the most important parameters for each oscillator. There are also dedicated dials for each of the three master effects, making it easy to audition different effects to hear how they modify the sound. Self-luminous organic EL displays are used for excellent visibility, even on a dimly lit stage.
King Korg features five octaves of velocity-sensitive keys, with adjustable response (Normal, Shallow, or Deep) to mimic that of classic instruments. Below the dedicated octave shift buttons, a backlit X/Y joystick is ready to control important live performance tweaks.
A CV/GATE OUT jack enables players to use an analog signal to control a KORG monotribe or MS-20. A dedicated cable is included to use the keyboard of King Korg to play the monotribe.
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The King Korg will be available February 2013 for a U.S. Street price of $1299. Additional product information and sound demos are available at Korg.com
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COMPANY PRESS CONTACT: Leslie Buttonow – Korg USA [email protected]
For Immediate Release Korg USA Announces MS-20 mini
— Korg’s classic MS-20 is recreated in mini size —
WINTER NAMM, ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA, January 24th, 2013 – Korg’s MS-20 monophonic synthesizer, first introduced in 1978, is still coveted to this day for its thick, robust sound, powerful, iconic analog filter, and versatile patching options. It has now been reborn as the new MS-20 mini. The same engineers who developed the original MS-20 have perfectly reproduced it in a body that’s been shrunk to 86% of the original size, yet retains the distinctive look of the original.
The MS-20 Mini offers the same distinctive synthesis that made the original MS-20 popular: two oscillators with ring modulation, and envelope generators with delay and hold. The VCA (Voltage Controlled Amp) maintains the original basic design, but it’s been modified to produce less noise. Particular attention has also been paid to delivering smooth parameter adjustments, which are a distinctive feature of analog synthesizers. Special care was also
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taken to completely reproduce the original specifications of the MS-20, to deliver the same powerful sound, from deep, growling basses to crisp, rounded leads.
One of the most well-known – and still most sought after - characteristics of the original MS-20 was its powerful filters, which provided both high-pass and low-pass with peak/resonance. Maximizing the peak/resonance would cause the filter to self-oscillate; producing a distinctive and dramatic tonal change that was acclaimed as inimitable, and was used many years later on Korg’s monotron and monotribe. The filter circuit was changed mid-way through the production lifecycle of the MS-20; the MS-20 mini uses the earlier filter, which was felt to be superior due to its more radical sound.
The ESP (External Signal Processor) functionality carries on the experimental spirit of MS-20, allowing users to utilize the pitch or volume of an external audio source to control the synthesizer. For example, an electric guitar can be used as an input signal, and the MS-20 mini can be used as a guitar synthesizer, or the mic input can allow it to be used it as a vocal synthesizer.
The patching system enables the creation of complex sounds by allowing the rerouting of both modulation and audio (both the internal oscillators and external audio). Different combinations of the modulation input/output and trigger, sample and hold, and noise generator can produce an incredible variety of sounds. By patching according to the MS-20 flow chart printed on the panel, musicians of all levels can take advantage of these possibilities right away.
To make it even more approachable, the MS-20 mini has been shrunk to 86% of the size of the original, with meticulous care taken to accurately reproduce the knob design and the printing. The patch cables have been changed from 1/4" phone plugs to mini-plugs, and the newly- designed keyboard is 86% of the original size as well.
The MS-20 mini is equipped with a MIDI IN jack for receiving note messages, and a USB-MIDI connector that can transmit and receive note messages. Users can also connect the MS20 mini to a computer and play it from an external sequencer. •4•
For added authenticity, the MS-20 mini packaging replicates much of the original. Also included are the original MS-20 owner's manual and settings chart.
The Korg MS-20 Mini will be available April 2013 for a U.S. Street price of $599.00 Additional product information is available at Korg.com
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COMPANY PRESS CONTACT: Leslie Buttonow – Korg USA [email protected]
For Immediate Release
Korg USA Announces the Versatile SP-280 Digital Piano
WINTER NAMM, ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA, January 24th, 2013 - Korg announces the newest model in its series of Digital Pianos, the SP-280. It faithfully recreates the experience of playing a genuine Concert Grand in a beautifully designed digital piano that’s ideal for use at home or on stage. With 30 sounds in total, plus customizable ambience effects, the SP-280 is versatile enough for a wide variety of applications. The optional pedal unit (PU-2) provides soft and sostenuto pedals in addition to the included damper pedal, completing the true piano playing experience. The SP-280 contains a high-output amplification and speaker system, but can also be connected to any amplification system via its dual ¼” outputs.
The SP-280 provides a playing feel that's extremely close to that of an acoustic piano by switching between four piano samples according to the dynamics of the player’s performance.
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From delicate pianissimo to dynamic fortissimo, the sound will respond realistically to the player. In particular, the "Grand Piano" sound reproduces the damper resonance that is heard when the damper pedal of an acoustic piano is pressed. Special attention has also been paid to the high-quality, realistic electric piano sounds, which are period-accurate. These sounds reproduce not only the way in which the tone responds to the player’s touch, but also the subtle noises that occur upon releasing a key. Six varieties are provided, covering the sounds widely used in the pop music of the '60s and '70s.
Included are 30 richly-expressive and high-quality sounds, including acoustic and electric pianos, organs, clavs, harpsichord, strings, and more. A Layer Mode layers two sounds together, and a Partner Mode divides the keyboard into left and right regions so that two people can play the same range of pitches. Two headphone jacks make it convenient for private lessons, or for two people to enjoy playing at the same time.
The Natural Weighted Hammer Action (NH) keyboard provides the same playing feel as an acoustic piano, with heavier action in the lower register and a lighter response upward into the higher register. The Key Touch Control function offers three levels of adjustment to specify how the playing dynamics will affect the output sound.
The SP-280 features two onboard amplifiers that deliver 2 x 22 Watts of output power––the highest in its class. They deliver a rich sound with deep lows and sparkling highs, with enough volume for a small live event without requiring a PA system to be connected.
Available in black or white, the SP-280’s sleek, curved design will match any home décor; a newly-designed rear panel creates an attractive stage presence as well. And because the SP- 280 is designed to be placed anywhere, it was built with portability in mind––it weighs less than 42 pounds, including the stand.
The Korg SP-280 Digital Piano will be available April 2013 for a U.S. Street price of $699. Additional product information is available at Korg.com ### Word count: 476 words •6•
COMPANY PRESS CONTACT: Leslie Buttonow Korg USA Inc. Tel: 631.390.6500 www.korg.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Korg Offers Free “Best of Triton” Sound Library for Krome Users
Winter NAMM, Anaheim, CA, January 24, 2013 Korg announces the release of a free Bonus Sound Library for the Krome Music Workstation, called “Best of Triton.” This is a collection of 128 Programs that were converted from the most popular pre-load programs in the original Korg Triton Music Workstation.
Originally launched in 1999, The Triton Music Workstation was the industry standard keyboard workstation for nearly a decade, seeing four design evolutions throughout the 2000s. It contained a plethora of signature sounds that are coveted to this day for a huge variety of musical genres, and now Korg is proud to offer some of these inimitable sounds to the next generation of musicians.
Program highlights include:
F000 Super Grand – A familiar and popular piano sound F007 BX-3 Velo Switch – A great all-purpose tonewheel organ F039 Burnin' Brass – A bright and vibrant brass section F044 Spanish Guitar – A versatile and smooth acoustic guitar F114 Orbiting Probes – A swirling, spacey sound effect F079: Noisy Stabber – A synth sound used in countless dance tracks
“Best of Triton” is now available as a free download at www.korg.com/krome.
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Note: Although great care was taken to preserve the original TRITON sound as closely as possible, due to the differences between the KROME and TRITON architectures, some TRITON Programs may differ slightly from the original.
About the Krome Music Workstation The Krome Music Workstation offers a level of high quality sounds and advanced features never before seen in a keyboard of its class. It provides a carefully chosen selection of piano and drum sounds derived from the flagship Kronos, as well as new electric pianos for high quality sounds at users’ fingertips, plus a plethora of other sounds and powerful production tools like a piano-roll style sequencer and widescreen color TouchView display, all at a surprisingly light weight.
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COMPANY PRESS CONTACT: Leslie Buttonow Korg USA Inc. Tel: 631.390.6500 www.korg.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
KORG DEBUTS KP3+ KAOSS PAD — Latest version of KAOSS Pad offers even more creative possibilities —
WINTER NAMM, ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA, January 24, 2013 –– Korg exhibits the latest addition to their acclaimed Kaoss series: the KP3+ Dynamic Effect/Sampler. The KP3+ provides even more creative power for live and in-studio use while retaining the intuitive and user-friendly Kaoss touchpad interface. It offers the original KP3 effects, sounds and features, plus 22 all-new, diverse effect programs for everything from various EDM genres to rock and beyond. All are complemented by an enhanced, intuitive pad illumination system.
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The KP3+ features a total of 150 great-sounding effects programs. In addition to the selection of filters, decimators, vocoders and similar effects, user favorites have been added from the Kaoss Pad Quad and Mini Kaoss Pad 2: the Looper; a Ducking Compressor, which adds emphasis to the backbeats; and a Vinyl Break effect that simulates the slowing down of a turntable. All-new effects are also included, which were designed to create breaks and drops or to partially cancel vocal parts, as well as combination effects such as Stutter Grain, which alternately applies a grain shifter and a Looper.
Like all Kaoss Pads, the KP3+ responds to the touch of a finger on its X/Y pad, for intuitive, real-time control over multiple parameters. For convenience, a Pad Motion feature memorizes and repeats any pad gesture, and the Hold button locks the finger’s current position on the pad. To prevent abrupt changes when transitioning between effects, the FX Release function adds an adjustable delay tail when the user’s finger is removed from the X/Y pad.
The pad lighting system — 64 individual LEDs— illuminates along the path that’s traced by the user’s finger, providing a real-time light show, as well as enabling the user to easily perform in dimly lit environments. For sampling, a new, intuitive illumination system has been employed: the four sampling bank LEDs now light up red during recording and green during playback.
The KP3+ offers high resolution sampling from a wide variety of sources via mic and line inputs. Four Sample Bank buttons (100 total banks) allow the user to create, play and save looped and one-shot samples on the fly. Dedicated sampling features include auto-BPM detection and Tap-Tempo entry, plus Time-Slicing and re-sampling. Samples can be saved on a Secure Digital (SD) card or transferred to computer via USB.
The KP3+ is also a MIDI controller, transmitting three controller signals from its touchpad, along with data from the slider. The Sample Bank buttons send and receive MIDI note messages as well as program change commands and clock information.
USB computer connectivity allows for convenient data transfer to a computer. The included editor/librarian software also enables AIFF and WAV audio files to be loaded into the KP3+.
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The Korg KP3+ will be available April 2013 for a U.S. Street price of $349.99. Additional information can be found at korg.com.
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COMPANY PRESS CONTACT: Leslie Buttonow Korg USA Inc. Tel: 631.390.6500 www.korg.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
KORG DEBUTS KAOSSILATOR PRO+
WINTER NAMM, ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA, January 24, 2013 –– Korg exhibits the latest addition to their acclaimed Kaoss family: the Kaossilator Pro+ Dynamic Phrase Synthesizer/Loop Recorder. The Kaossilator Pro+ is packed with 250 programs, including more of the cutting-edge synth sounds that Korg is known for. Like all Kaoss-based products, this versatile new instrument offers creative musical possibilities and intuitive control over multiple parameters simply by moving a finger across the X-Y touchpad.
Sixty two of the onboard sounds have been inspired by current musical genres, including familiar leads and synth basses, along with sound effects for DJ use. Also of note are the 26 drum sounds that have been especially enhanced. Updated drum PCM includes sounds from Korg’s acclaimed Wavedrum percussion synth for greater performance variety. With a single
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Kaossilator Pro+ users can perform hip-hop, chiptune, house, dubstep, new disco, electro, reggaeton, and drum 'n' bass, or they can create their own genre.
Loop Recording can be set for up to four measures (16 beats), and performances on the Kaossilator Pro+ can be recorded into the four onboard internal Loop Recorder Banks. By adding (overdubbing) additional sounds one at a time, inspired looped phrases can be created ranging from minimal to fully orchestrated. The four infinitely loop-able banks can be combined, muted or un-muted, their volume adjusted, and their loop lengths changed - making live performance and arranging easy and fun for everyone.
The Kaossilator Pro+ provides line inputs and a mic input to allow recording of external audio sources as well. This makes it easy to add a vocal, or additional audio to any loop phrase created on the Kaossilator Pro+.
User-friendly Key and Scale features ensure that even beginners can play notes that will match the song being performed. Players can choose any of 35 scales, ranging from popular scales such as chromatic, major pentatonic, and minor blues, to unusual scales such as Spanish, Ryukyu, and Raga. Then by using the Key setting to specify a musical key or “root,” users can play perfect solos without wrong notes. In addition, the Note Range can be set to a narrow range to ensure that melodies will be played accurately as intended, or to an extremely wide range to allow unexpected phrases to emerge.
The built-in gate arpeggiator patterns can automatically generate phrases and beats by simply moving a finger across the touchpad. The pad LEDs light up along the path of the user’s finger, allowing users to perform with ease, even on a dimly lit stage. The four loop recording LEDs have been updated to a new, more intuitive illumination pattern–they now light red during recording and green during playback.
MIDI IN/OUT jacks and a USB port provide easy control over external MIDI devices. Loop data and user settings such as programs can be stored on an SD/SDHC card. The Kaossilator Pro+ Editor provides librarian functionality for loop data as well as a MIDI assignment editor.
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The Korg Kaossilator Pro+ will be available April 2013 for a U.S. Street price of $399.99. Additional info is available at korg.com .
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COMPANY PRESS CONTACT: Leslie Buttonow – Korg USA [email protected]
For Immediate Release Korg Announces Wavedrum Global Edition
— Dynamic Percussion Synthesizer offers full complement of world-class sounds —
WINTER NAMM, ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA, January 24th, 2013 - Korg presents the latest addition in their line of dynamic percussion synthesizers, the Wavedrum Global Edition. It boasts the largest palette of cutting-edge sounds of any Wavedrum to date, featuring sought- after percussion sounds from around the world, a major boost in the quality of each sound, and dramatic improvements in usability.
Wavedrum Global Edition contains 60 percussion models that are driven by on-board transducer microphones which – when combined with its real drum head – offer a remarkably realistic playing experience. Whether accessing go-to sounds or imaginative sonic textures, players will experience dynamics and response that are unparalleled in the electronic percussion realm. Each program also has sounds available on the durable powder-coated aluminum rim for even more performance possibilities. For those who wish to dig deeper into the potential of Wavedrum Global, all programs – both head and rim – are highly editable.
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In addition to conventional drum sounds such as snares and toms; popular percussion instruments such as cajon, djembe, conga, and tabla; as well as metallic percussion such as cowbell and triangle, the Wavedrum Global Edition also provides exotic ethnic instruments and percussion sounds from all over the world, both ancient and modern. For example, it allows users to instantly experience the udu, a clay pot percussion instrument; the jegog, a bamboo marimba from the island of Bali; the talking drum of Africa; Arabic percussion such as the darbuka and daf; plus gongs that would require massive setups. There's also a vast selection of stringed instruments, such as sitar, koto, and berimbau. For each sound, the Wavedrum Global Edition provides a faithful re-creation of the original, as well as new expressive potential that’s unavailable from any other instrument. It also enables users to easily play percussion instruments that would normally take years to master.
Wavedrum Global Edition places an emphasis on offering newly-enhanced acoustic instruments such as snare, djembe, and conga. It also provides a rich assortment of Latin American and African instruments, such as the balafon, shekere, and dundunba, as well as the Japanese taiko drum. A full complement of sound effects and electronic sounds are included, further broadening performance potential. Additionally, there are sounds for creating cutting- edge electronic dance music styles such as dubstep and moombahton.
While the Wavedrum Global Edition can be enjoyed by playing the sounds alone, it offers special features that provide the ability for users to jam along for fun or for practice. Included are 140 loop phrases from various musical genres that can be used during practice. The AUX input can be used to mix in the signal from any audio source––CD, MP3 player, or even an additional Wavedrum for double conga-style setups. Using the headphone output allows for private or late-night practice without disturbing others
Portable, compact, and lightweight, Wavedrum Global Edition lets players bring an arsenal of stunningly accurate percussion sounds anywhere. Place it on an ordinary snare drum stand, Korg’s extended-height stand (ST-WD), or even a table. It can be played as a stand-alone instrument or added to any electronic or acoustic drum kit. It can also add an instrumental element to a DJ performance or keyboard rig. •13•
The Korg Wavedrum Global Edition will be available March 2013 for a U.S. Street price of $599.00 Additional product information is available at Korg.com
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COMPANY PRESS CONTACT: Leslie Buttonow – Korg USA [email protected]
For Immediate Release
Korg Announces Pitchblack Portable Polyphonic Guitar and Bass Tuner
WINTER NAMM, ANAHEIM, CA, January 24th, 2013 - Korg announces the newest addition to the Pitchblack family of tuners, the Pitchblack Portable Handheld Polyphonic Tuner for Guitar and Bass. This new, compact tuner offers convenient tuning by enabling all strings to be tuned simultaneously.
Despite its compact size, the Pitchblack Portable offers high visibility in any environment via a large, horizontal LED display which runs the entire width of the tuner body. Professional features include a String Seeker function, which automatically detects the string that’s being tuned, plus a wide tuning/detection range. An integrated cable checker allows cables to be quickly and easily checked for functionality. A buffered output is also included to ensure superior rejection of any external noise.
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In addition to saving time and effort, polyphonic tuning is ideal for players using a floating tremolo system. With this type of system, one string going flat may make the other strings sound sharp. By displaying the tuning status of all strings at once, the Pitchblack Portable makes it easy to identify the troublesome string.
The Pitchblack Portable’s extra-large display is also ideal for use in traditional single string tuning mode. In this mode, the display can be set to one of three selectable meter modes: Regular, Strobe, or Half Strobe. The Pitchblack Portable is housed in a road-ready, durable die-cast aluminum case for extra reliability. Color choices include Black, and for a limited time, Silver, as well as Red.
The Korg Pitchblack Portable Handheld Polyphonic Tuner (PB04) will be available Spring 2013with a U.S. street price of $99.99
More product information is available at Korg.com.
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COMPANY PRESS CONTACT: Leslie Buttonow – Korg USA [email protected] For Immediate Release
Korg Announces the Headtune Clip-on Tuner
—Entry level tuner offers fun headstock design and user-friendly tuning —
WINTER NAMM, ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA, January 24th, 2013 - Korg has announced Headtune, the latest addition to their line of clip-on tuners. Headtune is a fun, easy-to-use tuner that’s shaped like the headstock of a guitar, bass or ukulele, depending on the model. All •15• models include features that make it stress-free for beginners to tune their instrument, while retaining the precision Korg tuners are known for. In addition, Headtune features an extremely compact and lightweight body that easily fits into the pocket of a guitar case for effortless transportation.
When a single note is played, Headtune’s built-in piezo pickup will instantly detect the pitch of the vibrating string. Two types of LEDs will light up: an LED meter to indicate the pitch, and a string indicator LED to indicate the peg location. Together, the LEDs give a clear indication of which tuning peg requires adjustment, and how it should be adjusted. Because of its design, Headtune enables an instrument to be tuned without remembering the note names of each open string, which is especially useful for beginners.
Headtune features the same high-quality clip as used on Korg's Pitchclip tuner. It will securely attach to an instrument’s headstock, and the display angle can be adjusted to a maximum of 120 degrees. The string indicator LEDs and LED meter offer high contrast for easy visibility even in dimly lit locations, as well as a wide viewing angle, allowing users to tune from a natural, comfortable position.
Additional product information is available at Korg.com.
The Korg Headtune Tuner will be available Spring 2013 for a U.S. Street price of $19.99
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—For more information, contact Korg USA, 316 South Service Rd, Melville, NY 11747. Tel: (631) 390-6500; Web: www.korg.com.
Korg USA is exhibiting at Booth 6440 (Hall A) at the 2013 Winter NAMM Show in Anaheim, CA. •16•