Exploring the Korg Multi/Poly: The Ultimate Synth for Modern Producers

Analog Modeling Power in a Modern Synth

The Korg Multi/Poly is an advanced analog modeling synthesizer inspired by the legendary Korg Mono/Poly. Leveraging the latest in Korg’s analog modeling technology, it merges classic sonic warmth with cutting-edge digital features, delivering the power of a polyphonic modular system in a user-friendly, compact design. Ideal for sound designers and performers, the Multi/Poly brings extensive sonic flexibility with multiple oscillator types, innovative filters, and dynamic modulation options.

Key Features

• 24-Voice Polyphony: High-polyphony for rich, layered compositions.
• Hybrid Oscillators: East Coast, West Coast, and Wavetable oscillators provide a vast tonal range.
• Vintage Filters and Dual-Filter Setup: Authentic vintage filters alongside Korg’s new multi-filter for unique sonic textures.
• Motion Sequencing 2.0: Inspired by Korg’s wavestate, offering advanced modulation capabilities.
• KAOSS Physics: Real-time modulation control with a unique X/Y touchpad.

Sound Engine: Versatile Analog Modeling

At the heart of the Korg Multi/Poly is its robust analog modeling engine. The synth combines four oscillators per sound program that deliver a blend of classic, digital, and West Coast-inspired waveshapes, including wavetable synthesis with over 200 factory wavetables. Users can further expand their sonic arsenal by importing custom wavetables or modifying sounds through real-time morphing.

Highlights:

• Classic Oscillator: Emulates vintage analog oscillators with single and dual waveforms, allowing for classic analog-style warmth.
• Digital Oscillator: Supports 64-step wavetables and customizable modifications, delivering both subtle and extreme tonal shifts.
• Waveshaper Oscillator: Inspired by West Coast synthesis, processes sine and triangle waves through a shaper table for complex overtones.

Filters and Modulation: Vintage Tone Meets Modern Flexibility

The Multi/Poly features multiple vintage-inspired filters that emulate classic analog synths like the MS-20 and Mono/Poly, as well as unique filter options like a self-resonating high-pass filter and a blendable multi-filter. This versatile filtering section allows for a rich range of tonal options, from smooth resonance to gritty distortion. Additionally, each sound can route oscillators to two filters (A and B), offering extensive creative control over the tonal characteristics and allowing crossfading for unique layering effects.

Highlights:

• 5 Vintage Filter Models: Including the Korg Mono/Poly and MS-20 filters, known for their aggressive resonance.
• Cross-Modulation and Sync Capabilities: Combine oscillators with sync and cross-mod for complex sounds, once exclusive to large modular systems.
• Dual-Filter Routing: Process oscillators through two filters in series or parallel, with real-time modulation for advanced layering.

Motion Sequencing and KAOSS Physics: Dynamic Modulation

Taking inspiration from Korg’s wavestate, the Multi/Poly introduces Motion Sequencing 2.0—an advanced step sequencer divided into four lanes, each with unique start and end points. This design creates evolving sequences where each lane interacts independently, perfect for crafting ever-changing rhythmic and melodic patterns. Additionally, KAOSS Physics adds intuitive modulation using an X/Y touchpad, with parameters like friction, gravity, and repelling forces that allow for interactive, performance-ready control.

Highlights:

• Motion Sequencing 2.0: Independent loop points for timing, pitch, and shape.
• KAOSS Physics: Swipe-based modulation that mimics physical motion, generating real-time parameter control for expressive soundscapes.

Layer Rotate Function: A Round-Robin Approach

The Layer Rotate feature on the Multi/Poly allows users to assign different sound programs to four layers, switching between them with each keystroke. Inspired by the original Mono/Poly’s paraphonic mode, Layer Rotate uses round-robin switching for varied tonal textures, enhancing layered patches with evolving harmonic content. This function pairs exceptionally well with the arpeggiator, creating complex, interactive arrangements.

Effects and Production-Ready Sound Design

Korg equips the Multi/Poly with a range of studio-quality effects, including compressors, vintage chorus, talking modulator, multiband delays, and even guitar amp simulations. Each layer has three dedicated effects slots plus a master reverb, allowing users to create production-ready sounds directly from the synth. The onboard parametric EQ adds an additional layer of refinement, making it easy to shape sounds to fit into any mix.

Connectivity and Integration

The Multi/Poly offers comprehensive connectivity options, including balanced stereo outputs, MIDI, and USB-MIDI, and is compatible with Korg’s editor software, which allows real-time editing and management of sounds from macOS and Windows devices. With class-compliant USB-MIDI, it integrates seamlessly with DAWs and mobile devices, and with the librarian/editor, users can manage wavetables and create complex patches.

Pros:

• Extensive oscillator and filter options, offering a massive sound palette
• Dual-filter routing and cross-modulation for advanced sound design
• KAOSS Physics and Motion Sequencing for creative modulation
• Quality effects and EQ suitable for live performance and studio production
• Compact design with accessible controls

Cons:

• Advanced features may present a learning curve for beginners
• Requires external software for deeper waveform editing

Conclusion

The Korg Multi/Poly synthesizer combines vintage analog character with modern synthesis technology, offering musicians a powerful platform for creating expressive, evolving sounds. Whether you’re crafting ambient textures, complex sequences, or driving basslines, the Multi/Poly’s deep synthesis engine, extensive modulation, and quality effects make it an ideal choice for serious sound designers. With tools like Motion Sequencing 2.0 and KAOSS Physics, the Multi/Poly is a true synthesis powerhouse, suitable for any musician or producer looking to push the boundaries of sound.