KORG Synthesizers
- SoundTree
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
The Korg Gallery exhibit at the The Musical Museum in Brentford, West London
A brief history of Korg Synthesizers
An introduction to Korg synthesizers
Discover the Evolution of Modern Music Creation: The Korg Gallery is a new permanent installation at The Musical Museum, Brentford, West London
Korg has recently launch its new Korg Gallery exhibit at the The Musical Museum in Brentford, West London. We headed up for a tour form Korg's Luke Edwards, and to get a compressed history of Korg's synth innovations via 21 key instruments.
Find out more about the Korg Gallery: https://www.korg.co.uk/pages/korg-gallery
A Brief History of Korg Synthesizers
KORG has significantly influenced the evolution of synthesizers since its inception in 1963. The company's early contributions include the development of the first portable transistorized organ, the Combo Organ, which set the stage for future innovations. In the 1970s, Korg introduced the MS-20, a semi-modular analog synthesizer known for its distinctive sound and patchable architecture, appealing to both experimental musicians and traditional performers. The 1980s saw Korg's entry into polyphonic synthesizers with the Polysix, and later, the M1 workstation in 1988, which became one of the best-selling synthesizers of all time, integrating digital sampling with sequencing capabilities. The M1's piano and organ presets became staples in 1990s house music, notably featured in Madonna's "Vogue".
Korg's commitment to innovation continued into the 1990s and 2000s with the release of the Triton in 1999, a powerful workstation synthesizer that combined digital sampling with advanced synthesis techniques. The Triton became renowned as a benchmark of keyboard technology and has been widely featured in music videos and live concerts . In the 2010s, Korg embraced the analog revival with the release of the Monotron series, miniature analog synthesizers that reignited interest in analog synthesis. This move was part of a broader trend where companies like Korg reintroduced classic analog designs, such as the ARP Odyssey, blending vintage sound with modern enhancements.
What are the differences between analog and digital modeling synthesizers?
Modern Korg synthesizers, such as the Minilogue XD, combine analog circuitry with digital processing, offering musicians a versatile platform for sound design. These instruments typically feature multiple oscillators, multimode filters, and extensive modulation options, allowing for a wide range of sonic possibilities. The distinction between analog and digital modeling synthesizers lies in their sound generation methods. Analog synthesizers use voltage-controlled components to produce continuous waveforms, resulting in a warm and organic sound. Digital modeling synthesizers, on the other hand, employ digital algorithms to emulate the characteristics of analog circuits, providing the warmth of analog sound with the flexibility of digital technology. Korg's approach to synthesizer design reflects a commitment to both preserving the rich heritage of analog synthesis and embracing the possibilities of digital innovation.
Explore Korg Synthesizers
Discover more Korg Synthesizers on KorgUSA.com
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