Essential Information About the KORG phase8 Synthesizer
- 8 Electromechanical Voices with interchangeable steel resonators for true responsive and organic "Acoustic Synthesis."
- Polymetric Step Sequencer and unquantized live recording, with full automation and 8 memory slots.
- Analog Wavefolding and pitch-linked amplitude modulations (including tremolo), for unique and lively textures.
- Comprehensive Connectivity MIDI TRS-A, USB-MIDI, Sync, and CV for seamless integration in both studio and stage environments.
Where Luthiery Meets Synthesis at KORG
With the phase8, KORG introduces its proprietary "Acoustic Synthesis" technology: sound is generated by vibrating physical bodies and then shaped by precise electronic control. Neither purely analog nor strictly digital, this hybrid synthesizer occupies a unique place in the KORG lineup by offering a haptic and expressive playing experience, close to that of a contemporary acoustic instrument.
Who Is It For and What Are Its Uses?
The phase8 is aimed at intermediate to expert musicians, sound designers, performers, and composers of electronic, ambient, techno, experimental, or film music. Its physical response and direct interaction make it an inspiring tool in the studio, as well as a stage performance machine capable of sensitive improvisations and evolving textures.
Features and Innovations
The electro-acoustic engine is based on eight independent voices, each equipped with a tunable steel resonator. Supplied with 13 chromatic resonators (8 installable simultaneously), the phase8 covers both percussive attacks and long sustains through precise envelope control. Analog wavefolding adds grit and harmonic complexity, while three amplitude modulation modes-classic tremolo and two pitch-dependent variants-can automatically align with harmonic intervals.
The sequencer combines step programming and unquantized live recording, with step skipping per voice for natural polyrhythms. All panel actions are automatable and storable (8 slots). A trigger delay, adjustable via the Shift potentiometer and synchronizable to tempo, allows offsetting resonator strikes. Real-time interaction is central: touch, pinch, rub, or tap the resonators, then adjust physical sensitivity via the
AIR slider. For integration, the phase8 syncs via MIDI/USB-MIDI/Sync, accepts CV input, and can both be played by external devices or control MIDI instruments from its sequencer.
Technical Specifications
Sound Generation and Engine
- Polyphony: 8 independent electromechanical voices
- Resonators: steel, interchangeable and tunable (13 provided, 8 installable simultaneously)
- Synthesis: "Acoustic Synthesis" with analog wavefolding
- Amplitude Modulations: tremolo + 2 pitch-linked modes (can align to harmonic intervals)
- Synchronizable trigger delay (adjustable via Shift potentiometer)
- Real-time physical interaction, sensitivity adjustable via AIR slider
Sequencer and Memories
- Sequencer: step and unquantized live recording
- Polymetry: step skipping per voice
- Automation: recording of all panel parameters
- Sequence Memories: 8
- Programs: 8
Inputs / Outputs
- MIDI TRS-A In/Out
- USB-C (USB-MIDI and firmware updates)
- Sync In/Out
- Line audio output 6.35 mm jack
- Headphone output 3.5 mm mini-jack
- CV input (+/- 5 V)
Firmware Updates
Power Supply
Power Consumption
Dimensions (W x D x H)
Weight
Included Accessories
- AC adapter
- Hex key
- Quick start guide
- Safety sheet
- 5 additional resonators
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