Korg multi/poly Analogue Modelling Synthesiser

The all-new Korg multi/poly analogue modelling synthesiser combines the rich, analogue-inspired sounds of the legendary Mono/Poly with cutting-edge digital technology. It offers a polyphonic, modular-like experience in a compact form, ideal for sound designers and synth enthusiasts. Featuring a blend of East-coast, West-coast, and wavetable oscillators, along with newly modelled filters and envelopes, it provides vast sound design possibilities. The multi/poly synthesiser also introduces innovative features like Layer Rotate, Kaoss Physics, and Motion Sequencing 2.0 for deep sonic exploration, making it a powerful tool for creating bold, experimental sounds with modern flexibility.

• Next-generation analogue modelling technology
• Semi-weighted 37-key keyboard, velocity and release velocity-sensitive
• Solid aluminium top panel and wooden side panels for durability
• Four oscillators per Program (Classic, Digital, and Waveshaper types)
• Noise generator and ring mod for added sonic complexity
• Dual modelled filters with audio-rate modulation
• Four layers, each with a separate Program, for dynamic layering and split effects
• Layer Rotate for evolving sound variation
• Four loopable DAHDSR envelopes, five LFOs, and six Mod Processors per Program
• Motion Sequencing 2.0 for complex, per-voice modulation
• Kaoss Physics for interactive, hands-on modulation
• Over 5,500 modulation destinations
• Three studio-quality insert effects per layer, plus master reverb and parametric EQ
• Built-in Editor/Librarian software for macOS and Windows with real-time modulation visuals
• Custom-made soft case included for easy transportation
• Full connectivity via balanced stereo outputs, MIDI, and USB

The multi/poly synthesiser features redesigned, highly detailed filters and oscillators, with advanced analogue modelling that elevates the technology. Each voice includes a Virtual Voice Card, where oscillators, filters, envelopes, LFOs, and portamento circuits are modelled to capture analogue hardware variations. This allows each voice to have a slightly different character, producing rich, evolving timbres. Like in an analogue synthesiser, voice cards continue to function even when inaudible, with envelopes evolving naturally. This ensures long pad sounds with extended releases maintain continuity, while pitch drift and phase retention mimic analogue instability. The multi/poly also includes envelope curvature presets inspired by classic synths like the Mono/Poly, MS-20, ARP Odyssey, and Prophet 5, with modelled VCA responses from iconic synths, creating nuanced amp envelope behaviours.

The multi/poly offers four oscillators per Program, delivering thick, multi-layered tones with a choice of three oscillator types:

• Classic oscillators: These accurately model traditional analogue waveforms, providing 11 options, including both single and dual waveforms for rich, thick sounds. Front-panel controls adjust features like pulse width, triangle "lean," and waveform blending.
• Digital oscillators: Capable of playing wavetables with up to 64 steps, reminiscent of vintage hybrid synths and modern Eurorack modules. With over 200 factory wavetables and the option to import your own via macOS or Windows software, the multi/poly also supports Modwave wavetables and conversions from popular software formats. 30+ Modifiers and 8 Morph Types allow real-time reshaping and processing.
• Waveshaper oscillators: Drawing inspiration from West-Coast synthesis, these take simple waveforms like sine or triangle and run them through a shaper table, generating dynamic harmonics. Options include the Berkeley shaper for wavefolding or 90+ other shaper types, along with modulatable pulse width for added richness and motion.

Additionally, the multi/poly includes a noise generator with dedicated filtering and saturation, plus a ring modulator using inputs from the oscillators. Enhanced sync and cross-modulation features build on the Mono/Poly’s design, allowing creative sound shaping by syncing or pairing oscillators for independent control.

The multi/poly incorporates Motion Sequencing 2.0, an advanced evolution of Korg’s Wave Sequencing technology. It separates Timing, Pitch, Shape, and Step Sequences into independent Lanes, each with its own loop points, allowing for the creation of intricate, evolving patterns where each note can trigger different parameter combinations. Users can modulate loop points, randomise step order, or adjust probabilities to generate more organic, evolving sounds. Each Program provides four loopable DAHDSR envelopes, five LFOs, and six Mod Processors per voice for highly complex sound modulation. Motion Sequencing can be combined with Kaoss Physics, which enables real-time modulation by rolling and manipulating a virtual ball on an X/Y pad, offering a dynamic and interactive sound experience.

The multi/poly’s filters have been newly redesigned to provide a variety of classic and modern options. It includes the MS-20 lowpass and highpass 12dB/octave Korg 35 filters, faithfully recreating the aggressive, iconic sound of the MS-20. For smoother tones, the SE M/P 2-pole filter offers continuous control for sweeping between lowpass, band-reject, and highpass, with a dedicated bandpass mode. The filters support audio-rate modulation, enabling modulation from any oscillator or the ring modulator for bright, fizzy, and bubbling effects. The Drive circuit adds weight or distortion, from subtle thickening to heavy saturation. Two filters can be used simultaneously in series or parallel, with each sound source (oscillators, noise, and ring mod) having its own balance control to blend between filters. Modulating the A/B balance opens up further creative sound design possibilities.

• M/Poly: A 4-pole self-resonating filter modelled on the Mono/Poly.
• Mini: A ladder filter from a renowned American mono-synth, ideal for bass with reduced resonance at low frequencies.
• Pro: From the first programmable polyphonic synthesiser, delivering strong resonant sweeps.
• Ladder: Highpass and bandpass 4-pole self-resonating filters.

The multi/poly's architecture enables the creation of four independent Layers, each containing a unique Program, adding a new level of sonic complexity. Up to four Programs can be layered simultaneously in a Performance, allowing for rich, multi-layered sounds, creative splits, or velocity-triggered variations. Each Program has its own set of oscillators, filters, envelopes, LFOs, and effects, offering the ability to craft intricate, evolving performances that respond dynamically with each key press. Starting with four oscillators, a noise generator, and both sync and cross-modulation capabilities, these elements are processed through two independent filters for extensive tonal flexibility. Additionally, each Program includes four loopable DAHDSR envelopes, five LFOs, and six Mod Processors, providing powerful modulation options for complex sound design.

The Layer Rotate feature enables cycling through the four Programs with each key press, delivering dynamic and constantly evolving performances. Inspired by the original Mono/Poly’s paraphonic mode, Layer Rotate opens up endless creative possibilities. Layers can be triggered in random or sequential order, and when combined with the arpeggiator, it allows for the creation of intricate, mind-bending patterns.

An instrument that delivers such exceptional sound should also look and feel outstanding. The new semi-weighted keybed is smooth and expressive, offering a responsive playing experience, while the knobs provide the ideal amount of resistance for precise sound adjustments. Its sturdy aluminium front panel ensures durability, making it ready for live performances, while the wooden side panels and blue-on-black colour scheme pay stylish homage to the original Mono/Poly design. Additionally, the multi/poly comes with a custom-made soft case, allowing for convenient transport and protection of the instrument wherever you go.

The multi/poly’s effects ensure that your sounds are polished and stage- or studio-ready. Each layer includes three dedicated effects, along with a send to the Performance's master reverb and a master parametric EQ. In addition to standard effects such as compressors, EQs, choruses, flangers, phasers, and stereo delays, users can access unique sound-shaping processors like the Wave Shaper, Talking Modulator, Reverse Delay, and Multiband Mod Delay, along with the renowned Overb effect from the OASYS and Kronos. The multi/poly also features modelled effects, including Vox guitar amps, Vox wah, Vintage Distortion, CX-3 Rotary Speaker, Vibrato/Chorus, multi-head tape echo, and a selection of classic guitar pedals, providing endless possibilities for sound shaping.