New KORG Synths Are Modern Takes On Past Innovations

KORG has announced new synthesizers that are modern nods to past innovations, giving first looks at the ARP 2600 M, miniKORG 700FS and modwave at NAMM’s Believe in Music week.

The new ARP 2600 M is a modular version of the recent ARP 2600 FS, but in a more compact and portable format, all the while boasting the same features and sound quality.

It integrates the same analogue circuitry and components as the ARP 2600 FS, therefore faithfully reproducing the characteristic ARP sound. The ARP 2600 M is built in Japan with the same care as the ARP 2600 FS, and uses the same analogue components to accurately reproduce the sound and feel of the original.

The Spring Reverb has been re-engineered and adapted to the new size body to the same effect.

The miniKORG 700 was KORG’s first mass-produced monophonic synthesizer, and was released by KORG in 1973. The miniKORG 700FS is an authentic revival of the miniKORG 700S (an improved version of the miniKORG 700), which was released the following year.

The revised miniKORG 700FS offers added functionality such as an arpeggiator, spring reverb and aftertouch. The miniKORG 700FS is a fully realized analogue synthesizer that was developed in conjunction with the original designer, Fumio Mieda.

In 1985, KORG’s DW-8000 combined digital wavetables with analogue filters to give users sounds that were impossible to create with analogue oscillators.

Modwave builds on the DW legacy and transforms it into a modern monster synth, featuring deep wavetable oscillators, filters, wildly flexible modulation, “unmatched” polyphony, comprehensive pattern sequencing, and hands-on control to deliver easily customisable sounds and phrases.

modwave also introduces two unique new tools for creating dynamic motion: Kaoss Physics and Motion Sequencing 2.0. Kaoss Physics combines an x/y Kaoss pad with modulatable game physics to create a responsive, interactive controller.

Motion Sequencing 2.0 brings the organic, continuously evolving patterns of the wavestate's Wave Sequencing 2.0 into the world of motion sequencing, including multiple lanes and real-time recording to help users create complex and evolving phrases that other step sequencers cannot.

No official information on pricing and availability has been released yet.