WORLD OF MUSIC ; PORTABLE KEYBOARD - Latest Portable Music Keyboards, Synthesizers and Music News

Korg MS-20 FS Monophonic Analog Synthesizer, 2 Oscillators, 37 Mini-Keys

Korg today announced that the MS-20 FS (full-size) Monophonic Synthesizer is now available.

This is the long-awaited 1:1 scale reissue of the legendary MS-20, reborn in four limited-edition green, white, blue and black colors.

The original MS-20 is a classic semi-modular monosynth, prized for its distinctive, aggressive-sounding filters and external audio processing capabilities. The MS-20 was originally revived by Korg in 2013, in the form of the three quarter-sized MS-20 mini, and while two full-sized versions did follow – in full and desktop module forms – both were released as DIY kits produced in limited numbers.

During NAMN 2020, Korg had announced another production run of the full-sized MS-20, and this time in pre-built, rather than kit format. And what is more there are four limited-edition colors variations to choose from, each of which Korg says will be produced in limited numbers.

Now, it is finally shipping.

The full-sized 37-note keyboard design remains the same as the original including two filter types, except for the addition of MIDI and USB MIDI control.

All four KORG MS-20 FS models are now available with U.S. MAP pricing of $1399.99.

Korg has shared a sneak preview of the Wavestate SE – a new edition of the Wavestate.

The new Korg Wavestate SE adds aftertouch and a premium feel in a new 61-key version.

It seem the Korg product releasing juggernaut rolls on with yet another synth breaking cover. This time Korg has given 2020’s Wavestate the premium treatment with a new SE version, adding what many users would have loved in the original: aftertouch. It is not just a case of simply adding the aftertouch and leaving it there. Much of the patches included in the machine have been tweaked to make the most out of the feature.

Aluminium panel and knobs should make for a very solid synth.

Beside aftertouch, an obvious choice has been taken to up the key-count to 61, further making reinforcing the Wavestate as a full-on performance instrument. In addition, players will also be pleased with the addition of solid aluminium knobs and top panel, giving the Wavestate SE a premium feel.

Korg seems to be really hitting NAMM’s Believe in Music event hard with miniKorg 700FS and Modwave, already being announced.

However, these announcements are merely a sneak preview of what is coming from Korg this year, hence, we do not have any details on release dates and prices as yet. Check out the Korg website for more info.

Korg has announced a new synthesizer, the miniKorg 700FS that is a modern nod to past innovation.

Korg goes back to its roots (miniKorg 700) with the miniKorg 700FS, a new version of its first analogue synth. The miniKorg 700 released in 1973 was Korg’s first mass-produced analogue synth, and now after almost 50 years later, it is back. The new miniKorg 700FS is actually a revival of the MiniKorg 700S, which was launched in 1974 and added more functionality, but make no mistake, this is Korg going right back to its synth roots.

Unique ‘sub keyboard’ can be used for phat leads and basses.

Looking back, the miniKorg 700 was a simple and slightly unusual instrument, and the same could be said of this new version, which was designed in collaboration with Fumio Mieda, the creator of the original. A good number of the controls are positioned below the keyboard on the front panel, the theory being that this makes them easy to access when the synth is positioned on top of a main keyboard such as an organ or electric piano. This is because the miniKorg 700 was originally conceived as a sub keyboard – one that might be used for additional lead or bass sounds during a performance. The FS can be used in the same way. While the original miniKorg 700 was a single oscillator monosynth, the S model added a second oscillator, and this is included in the FS version as well. As such, you can create even phatter, detuned sounds. Like the S, the FS has a ring modulator, too.

The miniKorg 700FS features that are completely new include a spring reverb effect, a joystick for pitchbend and modulation, and aftertouch on the 37-note keyboard, an arpeggiator, while connectivity includes a USB port, MIDI IN and a CV/Gate In jack. A memory button enables you to store your favourite patches.

Perhaps, you are already be familiar with the filter circuit from the miniKorg 700, as it was included in the Volca Keys and Volca Bass. The filter can be tweaked using the unique Traveler controller; this consists of two sliders sitting below the keyboard for adjusting the cut-off frequency. The upper one controls the low-pass filter and the lower one takes care of the high-pass filter.

Befitting the vintage feel and look, the miniKorg 700FS comes with a luxurious looking hard case, to enable you to keep it safe when it is out on the road.

Find out more on the Korg website. A price and release date are still to be confirmed.