The Korg microSTATION Micro Synthesizer is a compact and powerful 61 key synthesizer with 480 usable sounds, that include synths, keyboards, basses, drum kits and more. The microSTATION features 61 mini-keys and a compact design for easy transport and placement in mobile keyboard rigs, recording studios, production studios, etc.
Korg's EDS-i (Enhanced Definition Synthesis-integrated) sound engine delivers the level of sound quality found in Korg's flagship synthesizers and workstations. The lightweight, quick-action keybed is designed for durable synth playing, and quick glissandos. The on-board sequencer features Grid Sequencing, Loop Recordings, Dual Arpeggiators and much more. Store custom sounds on a SD/SDHC card and a USB Type-B connector provides seamless MIDI integration with a computer.
| Keyboard |
61 mini-key Natural Touch keyboard;
Velocity-sensing |
| Polyphony |
120 Voices max, single mode, 60 voices max, double mode
*The actual maximum polyphony will vary depending on oscillator settings such as stereo samples and velocity crossfading. |
| Multitimbral | Combinations: Up to 16 timbres, keyboard and velocity split/layer/crossfade, and modifications to the program setting via the Tone Adjust function |
| Synthesis Method | EDS-i (Enhanced Definition Synthesis - integrated) |
| Presets |
Programs:
512 Programs / 480 Preloaded Combinations: 384 Combinations / 256 Preloaded Drum Kits: 48 Drum Kits / 25 Preloaded GM Sound set: 256 GM2 Programs + 9 GM2 Drum Programs |
| Sequencer |
Tracks:
16 MIDI Tracks & 1 Master Track Songs: 128 Songs Resolution: 480 ppq (parts per quarter-note) Tempo: 40.00-300.00 bpm (1/100 bpm resolution) Memory: Up to 210,000 MIDI events Grid Sequence: Allows creation of sequence loops for drums etc., with up to 64 grids per note Template songs: 16 preset/16 user template songs Format: KORG (microSTATION) format, SMF (formats 0 and 1) supported Demo songs: 3 songs |
| Effects |
5 Insert Effects:
In-line processing; stereo in - stereo out 2 Master Effects: Two effects sends; stereo in - stereo out 1 Total Effect Effects types: 134 types (Usable as insert, master, or total effect; however, double-size effects cannot be used as the Total Effect.)Modulation: Dynamic modulation, tempo sync delay, LFO Effects Control Bus: Stereo side-chaining for limiter, gates, vocoders, etc. |
| Controllers |
Joystick
Realtime Controls:
Knobs 1-4 SELECT buttons (REALTIME CONTROL, Arpeggiator Control, Tempo Control), EXTERNAL (In External mode, the four knobs, four chord trigger switches can be used as MIDI controllers. 128 setups can be stored. (102 are preloaded. These allow you to control software synthesizers or DAW software.) Arpeggiator/Audition: AUDITION button, ARP ON/OFF button, ARP LATCH ON/OFF button Arpeggiator/Audition: AUDITION button, ARP ON/OFF button, ARP LATCH ON/OFF button |
| Inputs/Outputs |
Audio Outputs:
OUTPUT, L/MONO, R: 1/4" phone (6.3mm) monaural phone jack (unbalanced) Headphone output: 1/8" mini (3.5mm) stereo mini-phone jack Control Inputs: DAMPER/PEDAL/SW jack x 1, half-damper supported MIDI: IN, OUT USB: 1 USB (TYPE B), MIDI interface |
| Storage |
SD-Card slot:
Capacity recognized: FAT32: 2 Gigabytes (GB). SDHC memory cards are not supported. |
| Power | 6W |
| Dimensions | 30.63 x 8.27 x 3.23" (77.80 x 21 x 8.20cm) |
| Weight | 5.73 lb |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
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Best Uses
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 5 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-5
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Korg microSTATION Micro Synthesizer:
google for craig anderton's review of this thing... the only potential issue is whether you can hang with the mini-keys... it took me at least five minutes to get used to them.
great sounds, great functionality, great integration with logic... a huge bang for the buck.
oh... and 6 lbs and small size makes it great in cluttered recording situations, or for taking to rehearsal.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Korg microSTATION Micro Synthesizer:
This is my second Korg product.I am a keyboard hobbyist who likes to play and make his own chill out music. I like listening to classic rock and modern blues.My first Korg product are the Korg nanoseries2, which I plan to write a review about later. For now I will talk about the Korg microstation.First thing that comes to my mind is: Portability and the AMAZING array of programs and combis this keyboard offers. If you are new to the world of Korg, "programs" are simply sounds or voices produced by the keyboard, while "combi" are a combination of up to 16 programs either layered on top of each other, split across the keyboard, or velocity sensitive (meaning it depends on how hard/soft you play the key a corresponding combi sound will be generated)Korg claims in the manual that the heart of the microstation is a chip called: EDS-i (Enhanced Definition Synthesis – integrated) "This tone generation system integrates the main functionality of the "EDS" (Enhanced Definition Synthesis) system featured on the M3 and M50, including the oscillators, filters, amps, LFO/EG, and effects, delivering rich and vivid sounds." Although I briefly enjoyed once playing on the Korg M3, however the microstation sounds phenomenal. Let me explain that more:In order to enjoy the full effect of this keyboard first you need to use the available stereo outputs on the back and hook it up to either a mixer or straight to decent monitors.There are two modes either programs or combis. Each mode had eight different categories to choose, you can select from: KEYBOARD, STRINGS/BRASS/WOODWIND, GUITAR, BASS&BASS SPLIT, SYNTH, LEAD&SOLO SPLIT, DRUM/MALLET/HITS, and USER defined. There are a total of 512 programs and 384 combis!!!!!I have almost heard each sound the microstation can produce and they are simply amazingggg. I never ran out of sounds. They are all crisp and clean. Don't let its physical size fool you, this keyboard bangs!!!The combis are also amazing. Once you turn on the ARP (arpeggio) function in the combi mode, it adds some beats and layered sounds and loops ontop of the main sound adding an extra dimension to my music.Lets talk about the "synthesizer" part of this keyboard. Besides the joystick used for varying the pitch, adding "wah" and "vibrato" effects. There are 4 knobs next to the volume knob that can control 4 parameters in real-time. Here is the cool part :))) these 4 parameters are grouped into A, B, and C. And you can select any of the groups also in real-time!!!!! "A" group controls the cutoff point, resonance, envelope generator intensity, and envelope generator release time of the LP filter. "B" group is user defined (if you are familiar with the world of synthesizers you will know what ADSR, EG, and LFOs mean. You can control the intensity and level of any these and assign them to group "B"). Group "C" controls the ARP gate, ARP velocity, ARP swing, and the overall tempo. I call this AMAZINGGGGGGGGGG!!!Note: I have used the Korg iMS20 iPad app extensively and have produced some house music on soundcloud and I must say that the filters on the iMS20 seem more aggressive than the microstation. Nevertheless, the microstation does have much much more sounds and ARPs to choose from.The two liner display took some time to get used to. I think Korg can be more generous and add a bigger screen. However, its relatively easy to navigate but it does consume time. Therefore if you are really hardcore on tweaking your sounds then I highly recommend using the microstation editor software that is bundled with this keyboard. Install it on your PC and use the a USB cable to talk to the microstation. Much easier than the two liner display.Bottom line, if you are like me every weekend you are heading to the studio and you want to carry a light, powerful, and fun keyboard, then this is it. Period.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Korg microSTATION Micro Synthesizer:
I will are be using this keyboard live, the fact it is small is great as I am center stage and the less clutter the better for me. The sounds are quite amazing. The small keys are easy to get use to and the keyboard has a good feel. Arpegiator is very good and can be edited using the editing software. It is possible to construct whole songs but I think most people will find the process a little tedious, especially if, as am I, you are using Ableton as a main sequencer. But short sequences can be completed pretty quickly.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Korg microSTATION Micro Synthesizer:
i am going to buy a couple more. why? crazy full sound. have had it for a couple of weeks. very useable sounds, the strings, full brass are killer. it has solid jamming b-3 organs, the fx are great...the noise floor is surprisingly low. hitting the number lock lets you get straight to the patch you need, i was worried about that. and very nice pianos. i actually am liking the mini keys, but in practice will be using m-audio 88 key controller, the skinny lightweight one, and using the microstation as a module. but i may just haul 2 or 3 around and go back to being a multi keys guy! also, this unit fit perfectly into a guitar case, with plenty of room to spare for sustain pedal, stereo direct box, 4 cables, and the power supply. just under 31 inches long, about 3 inches high and 8 inches front to back. really pleased to walk in with a guitar case! but you GOTTA amplify this with REAL gear for full effect. the best toy that is NOT a toy ever!
(i do not work for anyone related to this item)if they made this in a micro 88 key version, fun!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Korg microSTATION Micro Synthesizer:
okay, it looks like a toy. but has a BIG voice. fits in a guitar case with room for pedal/cables at neck end. fx and polyphony = nice! sounds like my much bigger korg collection, will substitute for trinity v3 on backline/fly dates, plug in midi from other controller. surprisingly good fidelity and out of the box patch useability for gigs. the b-3 organs that i couldn't quite get right on the tr-76 that i had on my trinity. the keyboard is also VERY playable, with acceptable velocity sensing, no aftertouch. only one pedal input, but using midi full size controller = no problem. so fun i may get a second for a dual setup i can throw in the front seat. amplify this microstation right, (i use 2 qsc k12's) and no one will guess it's possible. A+ value, will make casual jamming much easier.
Displaying reviews 1-5
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 5 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-5
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Korg microSTATION Micro Synthesizer:
google for craig anderton's review of this thing... the only potential issue is whether you can hang with the mini-keys... it took me at least five minutes to get used to them.
great sounds, great functionality, great integration with logic... a huge bang for the buck.
oh... and 6 lbs and small size makes it great in cluttered recording situations, or for taking to rehearsal.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Korg microSTATION Micro Synthesizer:
This is my second Korg product.I am a keyboard hobbyist who likes to play and make his own chill out music. I like listening to classic rock and modern blues.My first Korg product are the Korg nanoseries2, which I plan to write a review about later. For now I will talk about the Korg microstation.First thing that comes to my mind is: Portability and the AMAZING array of programs and combis this keyboard offers. If you are new to the world of Korg, "programs" are simply sounds or voices produced by the keyboard, while "combi" are a combination of up to 16 programs either layered on top of each other, split across the keyboard, or velocity sensitive (meaning it depends on how hard/soft you play the key a corresponding combi sound will be generated)Korg claims in the manual that the heart of the microstation is a chip called: EDS-i (Enhanced Definition Synthesis – integrated) "This tone generation system integrates the main functionality of the "EDS" (Enhanced Definition Synthesis) system featured on the M3 and M50, including the oscillators, filters, amps, LFO/EG, and effects, delivering rich and vivid sounds." Although I briefly enjoyed once playing on the Korg M3, however the microstation sounds phenomenal. Let me explain that more:In order to enjoy the full effect of this keyboard first you need to use the available stereo outputs on the back and hook it up to either a mixer or straight to decent monitors.There are two modes either programs or combis. Each mode had eight different categories to choose, you can select from: KEYBOARD, STRINGS/BRASS/WOODWIND, GUITAR, BASS&BASS SPLIT, SYNTH, LEAD&SOLO SPLIT, DRUM/MALLET/HITS, and USER defined. There are a total of 512 programs and 384 combis!!!!!I have almost heard each sound the microstation can produce and they are simply amazingggg. I never ran out of sounds. They are all crisp and clean. Don't let its physical size fool you, this keyboard bangs!!!The combis are also amazing. Once you turn on the ARP (arpeggio) function in the combi mode, it adds some beats and layered sounds and loops ontop of the main sound adding an extra dimension to my music.Lets talk about the "synthesizer" part of this keyboard. Besides the joystick used for varying the pitch, adding "wah" and "vibrato" effects. There are 4 knobs next to the volume knob that can control 4 parameters in real-time. Here is the cool part :))) these 4 parameters are grouped into A, B, and C. And you can select any of the groups also in real-time!!!!! "A" group controls the cutoff point, resonance, envelope generator intensity, and envelope generator release time of the LP filter. "B" group is user defined (if you are familiar with the world of synthesizers you will know what ADSR, EG, and LFOs mean. You can control the intensity and level of any these and assign them to group "B"). Group "C" controls the ARP gate, ARP velocity, ARP swing, and the overall tempo. I call this AMAZINGGGGGGGGGG!!!Note: I have used the Korg iMS20 iPad app extensively and have produced some house music on soundcloud and I must say that the filters on the iMS20 seem more aggressive than the microstation. Nevertheless, the microstation does have much much more sounds and ARPs to choose from.The two liner display took some time to get used to. I think Korg can be more generous and add a bigger screen. However, its relatively easy to navigate but it does consume time. Therefore if you are really hardcore on tweaking your sounds then I highly recommend using the microstation editor software that is bundled with this keyboard. Install it on your PC and use the a USB cable to talk to the microstation. Much easier than the two liner display.Bottom line, if you are like me every weekend you are heading to the studio and you want to carry a light, powerful, and fun keyboard, then this is it. Period.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Korg microSTATION Micro Synthesizer:
I will are be using this keyboard live, the fact it is small is great as I am center stage and the less clutter the better for me. The sounds are quite amazing. The small keys are easy to get use to and the keyboard has a good feel. Arpegiator is very good and can be edited using the editing software. It is possible to construct whole songs but I think most people will find the process a little tedious, especially if, as am I, you are using Ableton as a main sequencer. But short sequences can be completed pretty quickly.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Korg microSTATION Micro Synthesizer:
i am going to buy a couple more. why? crazy full sound. have had it for a couple of weeks. very useable sounds, the strings, full brass are killer. it has solid jamming b-3 organs, the fx are great...the noise floor is surprisingly low. hitting the number lock lets you get straight to the patch you need, i was worried about that. and very nice pianos. i actually am liking the mini keys, but in practice will be using m-audio 88 key controller, the skinny lightweight one, and using the microstation as a module. but i may just haul 2 or 3 around and go back to being a multi keys guy! also, this unit fit perfectly into a guitar case, with plenty of room to spare for sustain pedal, stereo direct box, 4 cables, and the power supply. just under 31 inches long, about 3 inches high and 8 inches front to back. really pleased to walk in with a guitar case! but you GOTTA amplify this with REAL gear for full effect. the best toy that is NOT a toy ever!
(i do not work for anyone related to this item)if they made this in a micro 88 key version, fun!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Korg microSTATION Micro Synthesizer:
okay, it looks like a toy. but has a BIG voice. fits in a guitar case with room for pedal/cables at neck end. fx and polyphony = nice! sounds like my much bigger korg collection, will substitute for trinity v3 on backline/fly dates, plug in midi from other controller. surprisingly good fidelity and out of the box patch useability for gigs. the b-3 organs that i couldn't quite get right on the tr-76 that i had on my trinity. the keyboard is also VERY playable, with acceptable velocity sensing, no aftertouch. only one pedal input, but using midi full size controller = no problem. so fun i may get a second for a dual setup i can throw in the front seat. amplify this microstation right, (i use 2 qsc k12's) and no one will guess it's possible. A+ value, will make casual jamming much easier.
Displaying reviews 1-5