Korg MicroKorg 2 Review: The Ultimate Portable Synth for Musicians
A Mini Synth with Mighty Capabilities
Korg has long been a pioneer in the world of electronic instruments, with a history stretching back to the groundbreaking MS-20 and Polysix synthesizers. The Korg MicroKorg 2, a successor to the wildly popular original MicroKorg, continues this legacy, offering the same retro look and feel but with upgraded features. Launched as an evolution of the original, the MicroKorg 2 provides both vintage appeal and modern versatility, making it an excellent choice for musicians seeking portability without sacrificing sound quality.
Overview of Features and Functions:
The Korg MicroKorg 2 packs a robust sound engine into a compact design. Featuring 37 mini keys, it’s designed for both beginners and experienced musicians looking for a portable and affordable synthesizer. Its intuitive layout, arpeggiator, and built-in vocoder ensure that it’s not just for studio production but also shines in live performance.
Sound Engine:
The MicroKorg 2 retains the same dual-oscillator virtual analog sound engine as its predecessor but with improved versatility. Its analog modeling engine delivers rich, warm sounds, with the ability to produce everything from smooth pads to aggressive bass lines. It provides four voices of polyphony, ensuring it can handle complex soundscapes.
Oscillators and Waveforms:
The dual oscillators offer a wide range of waveforms, including sawtooth, square, and triangle waves, as well as more unique sounds like DWGS waveforms from Korg’s DW-8000. With waveform editing capabilities, the MicroKorg 2 opens up a world of sound customization, allowing musicians to craft everything from classic analog-style leads to more experimental textures.
Filters and Modulation:
The MicroKorg 2 features a 12 dB/octave low-pass filter that gives users the ability to fine-tune their sound. Envelope generators (EGs) and LFOs offer deep modulation possibilities. These can be assigned to a variety of parameters, giving musicians intricate control over shaping their sound. With an intuitive knob layout, tweaking and experimenting with the sound is seamless.
Effects Processing:
The MicroKorg 2 is equipped with built-in effects that include chorus, flanger, delay, and EQ. These effects are high-quality and add depth and polish to any sound you create. The onboard vocoder, a beloved feature from the original microKorg, has also been upgraded, providing rich, robotic voice processing that remains iconic.
Polyphony and Voice Modes:
With four voices of polyphony, the MicroKorg 2 can handle moderately complex sounds while keeping its compact footprint. Voice modes include monophonic and polyphonic, with unison available for thick, rich leads and bass sounds.
Keyboard and Controls:
The 37 mini keys on the MicroKorg 2 are velocity-sensitive, making it ideal for expressive performances. While the keys may be small, their feel is satisfying, especially for musicians on the go. The intuitive knob and switch interface allows for quick sound tweaking, and the built-in arpeggiator adds a layer of rhythmic complexity.
Sequencing and Arpeggiation:
The microKorg 2 doesn’t have a full-fledged sequencer but includes a highly flexible arpeggiator. The arpeggiator offers six types of patterns, allowing musicians to add rhythmic elements to their sounds in real-time. It’s perfect for live performances or as a source of inspiration during studio sessions.
Build Quality and Durability:
The Korg MicroKorg 2 retains the same durable plastic construction as the original. It’s lightweight, making it incredibly portable, but it’s also built to last through countless gigs and studio sessions. The classic retro design with wooden side panels gives it a timeless aesthetic that appeals to both vintage enthusiasts and modern players alike.
Connectivity and Power Base:
The MicroKorg 2 includes MIDI in/out and USB connectivity, allowing it to integrate easily into both modern DAW setups and more traditional MIDI rigs. It also features a 1/4″ input for routing external audio through its vocoder or filters. Power options include both an AC adapter and battery power, making it perfect for on-the-go musicians.
Pros:
- Compact and portable
- Powerful virtual analog sound engine
- Built-in vocoder and high-quality effects
- Versatile sound design capabilities
- Affordable and great for beginners
Cons:
- Limited polyphony (only 4 voices)
- Mini keys may not be comfortable for all players
- No full sequencer, just an arpeggiator
Conclusion:
The Korg MicroKorg 2 builds upon the legacy of its predecessor, offering enhanced features while maintaining its compact form factor. With its robust virtual analog engine, built-in effects, vocoder, and arpeggiator, it is a versatile synthesizer that appeals to both beginners and seasoned musicians alike. While the limited polyphony and mini keys may not satisfy all, the microKorg 2’s portability and powerful sound make it a worthy addition to any setup, especially for live performances or portable studio use.