Korg microSAMPLER Sampling Keyboard
Add multi-mode sampling, re-sampling, and pattern sequencing to your keyboard rig with the Korg microSAMPLER Sampling Keyboard. This "micro" sized keyboard is a full-featured sound design studio, capable of creating production ready loops and phrases.
- Swiss Army Sampling
- Too many instruments simply offer sampling as an added feature. The microSAMPLER is all about sampling, in every creative form. Five distinct sampling methods allow you to work the way you want, to get the results you need. The microSAMPLER offers traditional One-Shot and Loop sampling, plus a number of creative sampling modes - Loop, Key Gate and Auto-Next
- Loop sampling for recording grooves and phrases, drum loops, etc.
- One-Shot sampling for grabbing and triggering single events such as drums, etc.
- Gate sampling for playing a sound musically across the keyboard
- Auto-Next sampling for capturing phrases as multiple samples. For grabbing a groove as separate samples on individual keys, choose the AUTO NEXT mode and use Tap Tempo to match the BPM of the source material. The microSAMPLER will automatically divide the sample equally across multiple keys. Each key can be set to capture anything from a 64th note to a full two measures. This method lets you automatically perform the same type of sampling as KEY GATE
- Key Gate sampling is best for grabbing multiple samples from the same source. With Key Gate, you can take multiple samples from the same source or phrase and assign them to different keys as you play them! The individual keys assign the sample and enable recording all at the same time. This intuitive method of sampling, editing, and mapping in a single step is fun, interactive and fast
- In addition, there's a re-sampling function that lets you play existing layered samples processed by an effect and played by the pattern sequencer - and capture it all as a new sample. You can even sample while playing, allowing the sampling process itself to become part of your expressive performance
- Sample anytime, anywhere - or anything!
- The microSAMPLER can run on batteries, so you can perform on the go - or capture samples anywhere. Both line input and mic input are provided to allow a broad range of input sources including electronic musical instruments, CD, and voice. A gooseneck microphone is included so you can capture sounds with ease. The convenient caddies (located beside the mic jack) provide a cradle for your portable MP3/audio player when using it as a sample source. Truly, the world is yours to sample anytime and anyplace
- Pattern Possibilities
- The pattern sequencer uses an overdub operating style that lets you continually layer your performances. You can switch between patterns during playback for seamless performances. Up to sixteen patterns (16,000 notes per pattern, or a maximum 64,000 notes) can be stored in each bank
- The KAOSS Effect(s)
- Developed for Korg's KAOSS PAD series, the effect engine serves up a great selection of effects - so important when editing samples. The 21 effects include not only traditional delay and chorus, but also ring modulator and grain shifter, and even a Looper that's derived from the Loop Recording feature of the KAOSSILATOR Dynamic Phrase Synthesizer. The effects can be applied to any sound while resampling, allowing the effects to be used over and over again for more sonic expression
- Made to be Played
- The microSAMPLER features our new Natural Touch micro keyboard, offering greatly enhanced playability and expressive power. By adjusting the proportion of the black keys and white keys, we've made chords easier to finger, and the touch has been improved so that rapid phrases can be played more easily - and with less fatigue. The box-shaped keys project a sense of quality, and also allow smoother glides and smears. The controllers you need for an exciting performance are laid out on the panel for intuitive operation. The status of the samples assigned to each key (and the item being edited) is indicated by the lit state of the LEDs running along the top of the keyboard, ensuring excellent visibility even on stage
- USB Port
- By using the free editor/librarian software for the microSAMPLER, you can manage a gigantic sample library that's all your own. You can back up sample and pattern sequence data to your computer via USB, or load samples and patterns back in just as easily. Importing and exporting of WAV/AIFF data on your computer is also supported
| Keyboard Zones | 37 Natural-Touch mini-keys, velocity sensing |
| Polyphony | 14 voices |
| Sampling Rate | 48/24/12/6KHz |
| Sampling Times |
48KHz: 160 seconds (mono) per bank; x 8 Banks = 21.33 minutes (max.) 24KHz: 320 seconds (mono) per bank; x 8 Banks = 42.66 minutes (max.) 12KHz: 640 seconds (mono) per bank; x 8 Banks = 85.33 minutes (max.) 6KHz: 1280 seconds (mono) per bank; x 8 Banks = 170.66 minutes (max.) |
| Effects |
Structure: 1 Master FX Effect Types: 21 (Compressor, Filter, 4-Band EQ, Distortion, Reverb, Delay, L/C/R Delay, Auto-Panning Delay, Modulation Delay, Tape Echo, Chorus, Flanger, Vibrato, Phaser, Tremolo, Ring Modulation, Grain Shifter, Pitch Shifter, Talking Modulator, Looper) |
| Sequencer |
Patterns: 16 Patterns per bank; x 8 Banks Note Count: 64,000 notes total; 16,000 per bank Resolution: 480ppq (parts per quarter note) |
| Inputs/Outputs |
Input: ¼" Jack (rear); XLR Balanced (top); with Mic/Line switch; Level knob Outputs: L/Mono, R; ¼" unbalanced Phones: ¼" Stereo Jack |
| Display | Custom LCD; 37 LEDs above keys |
| Dimensions | 20.31 x 9.37 x 2.56" (515.87 x 238 x 65.02mm) |
| Weight | 4.19 lbs (1.9kg) |
| System Requirements |
PC: Microsoft Windows XP (SP3 or later); Windows Vista (SP1 or later); USB port MAC: OSX Version 10.4 or later; USB port |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 5 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
80%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Engaging (3)
Cons
Best Uses
- Reviewer Profile:
- Experienced (4)
Reviewed by 5 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-5
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Fun
- Good effects
- Responsive / Good Action
- Touch Sensitive Keys
Cons
- No Speakers
Best Uses
- Electronic Music
- Learning
- MIDI
Comments about Korg microSAMPLER Sampling Keyboard:
First of all, alot of people seem to hate this product for unknown reason, is it cause they red bad thing about it, or except it to do things it's not intended too I don't know, but you know what, they're wrong.
The microsampler is on of the funnest tool I've ever had! And that doesn't mean it doesn't sound great! I thought this would be a little addition considering I already have a 404sx and use that as the main part of my studio.
Actually the microsampler is a much more powerful production tool than the 404sx is (but yeah, I know the 404 is not intended to be that). The sequencer is simple but super easy to use, and it simply works! The keyboard pitching is also super useful and easy to use.
The onboard effect are good too and allow deep customization. Coming from the SP series (303,404sx,505,808) none of them have a release or decay setting for sample, this is aso super useful when you can to blend sounds while playing them.
Personally this is becoming on of my favorite tool and I've owned about 10 different samplers (electribes, sp series, yamaha su, zoom st), so don't read all the hate, and get one punks.
- Similar:
- Sp 404sx
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Fun
- Portable
- Responsive / Good Action
- Sounds Good
- Touch Sensitive Keys
Cons
- Sample Select Knob
Best Uses
- Electronic Music
Comments about Korg microSAMPLER Sampling Keyboard:
I make electronic music and find that software can create too many opportunities for distractions, so the last few years I've been predominantly using hardware. I decided I'd try out the MicroSampler after using Korg's older Electribe ES1 for awhile and liking it's ease and speed of use. What caught my eye about the MicroSampler was the ability to play samples chromatically on a keyboard as well as more sample storage than the older ES1. I've been using the MicroSampler about a week now and the things that I like about it that stand out are:
-I like the size of the device and it's small footprint, I also like the size and feel of the keys.
-The four sampling modes I've tried are all useful, Key Gate is especially fun, although I haven't tried Auto Next yet.
-Having the sampler start sampling when the volume of an incoming source is above the threshold is much tighter and more useful than I'd expected, I was worried it might cut off the beginning of a sound but it doesn't. It's now my go to mode for sampling from my computer or other devices.
-Playing samples with the keyboard I don't notice any appreciable drop in quality when played within the range of the keyboard. Sounds good!
As for criticisms, I only have one and that is there is quite a bit of menu diving at first. Having the shortcuts available on the keys does mitigate this somewhat but not entirely. Navigating the menus with knobs is also something I've been getting used to while using it. For most menus with fewer options the knob is fine, though for navigating the larger menu it can be a challenge to pick the right option quickly. The Sample Select knob when using the keyboard mode is probably the worse offender in this regard.
Overall, I think the design is quite good and I think the device is good at recording, playing back and manipulating samples. For now I'm docking one star for the Sample Select knob and some of the menu's but I'm only about a week into using this device so it's quite possible I'm not going about things in the most efficient way possible. It isn't as straightforward as the ES1 as far as sampling goes, you're going to have to read the manual, but it makes up for this by being considerably more powerful and more versatile.
Pros
- Battery Operated
- Engaging
- Fresh Sounds
- Portable
- Six Sampling Modes
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Home Studio
- Mobile DJ
Comments about Korg microSAMPLER Sampling Keyboard:
This is a very fun instrument to use. Different from software samplers, you feel that you can really interact with the sounds you capture. Even if it does not have the capacity and speed of more sophisticated (and expensive) machines, the microSAMPLER gives you a range of options that is just enough to inspire you but not so much that you do not know where to start. Many people think that it is a great instrument for sampling live. I agree. But I think it is also very useful for sketching ideas and for creating music from your home studio. I use it in conjunction with my musical toys (a variety of analog synthesizers and circuit bent gadgets) and have attained wonderful pieces. The associated software and bonus banks (free download from KORG web page) will give you the capacity and options necessary to start rocking the microSAMPLER. As for its usability, the microSAMPLER is not entirely intuitive but you won't spend more than one afternoon learning all the basics. The rest is fun exploration.
Pros
- Engaging
Cons
- Limited Selection
- Poor Sound Quality
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
Comments about Korg microSAMPLER Sampling Keyboard:
I am a huge fan of Korg and own a microkorg xl(BOSS!) and kaossilator. I wanted a sampler to help compliment these devices so naturally, I bought the microsampler. It was a little confusing at first but with the help of the manual and tutorials on youtube, i started grooving with it pretty quickly and getting some sweet results. The software editor is pretty tight and allows great access to the recorded waveform and the keyboard layout definitely makes it fun to play. It only comes with one bank of sounds but has a bunch of free downloads from Korg that will more than fill it up. Now, my gripes with it. The recordings come out very subdued even when the gain is turned up and the output. Also, the load time while changing banks can be as long as 15 seconds depending on how much memory is being loaded and if you want to record samples in stereo, there just isn't enough memory in individual banks and no other options for internal storage /sigh. It does have great addable realtime effects and a sweet reverse button which make it quite interesting but not much staying power if you are looking for a powerful sampler.
Pros
- Engaging
- Good Sound Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Studio
- Professional Recording
Comments about Korg microSAMPLER Sampling Keyboard:
I have been using this product for about a week. It is excellent for crafting ideas for songs, but I doubt I will be doing a lot of live sampling due to it's limitations. There are many versatile ways of capturing the incoming audio stream...my personal favorite being a mode that lets you grab a few measures once you have set the bpm. The effects are very powerful, but they would be a bit tricky to fully implement live.
Displaying reviews 1-5
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What's in the Box
- microSAMPLER Editor Librarian Software
- 1-Year Limited Warranty
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