Essential Information About the KORG modwave mkII Synthesizer
- Ultra-deep "Modwave" wavetable engine with polyphony extended to 60 stereo voices.
- Kaoss Physics and Motion Sequencing 2.0 for expressive and evolving sound movements.
- Highly flexible modulation (4 envelopes, 5 LFOs, multiple sources) and rich filters for precise sound design.
- 37-key keyboard, built-in studio effects, MIDI/USB connectivity, and stereo audio outputs.
From the DW-8000 to the modwave mkII: KORG DNA Reinvented
Heir to the iconic 1985 DW-8000, the modwave mkII transposes the concept of digital wavetables combined with superb filters into a decidedly modern instrument. This "mkII" model pushes the formula further with increased processing power and unprecedented polyphony for a wavetable synthesizer, while maintaining a performance- and creativity-oriented interface.
Who Is It For and What For?
Ideal for electro, techno, ambient, synthwave producers, and film composers, the modwave mkII shines both in the studio and on stage. Its workflow encourages sound exploration, quick editing, and the creation of evolving textures, whether wide pads, incisive leads, moving basses, or hypnotic sequences.
Features and New Additions
The Modwave engine centers around detailed wavetables, powerful filters, and a comprehensive modulation matrix. The new 60-voice stereo polyphony enables generous architectures without compromising dynamics. Kaoss Physics combines an XY pad with a physical model to intuitively sculpt sound, while Motion Sequencing 2.0 layers multiple independent lanes and real-time recording to create organic phrases impossible with classic step sequencers. In this mkII version, the LFOs gain free modes, delayed start, and retriggering; a pre/post switch for reverb sends is added alongside new modulation sources for even finer control. The built-in effects cover coloration, modulations, advanced delays, reverb, and a master EQ, all ready for mixing. Complete connectivity (audio, MIDI, USB) and the 37-key velocity-sensitive keyboard make it a compact synthesizer tailored for live performance and modern production.
Technical Specifications
System
- Keyboard: 37 keys (velocity-sensitive)
- Maximum polyphony: 60 stereo voices
- Sound generation system: Modwave synthesis engine
Modulation
- Controllers: modulation wheel, pitch wheel, Kaoss Physics, 4 modulation knobs
- Other sources: 4 x envelopes, 5 x LFOs, 2 x mod Processors, 2 x Keytrack, Seq Lanes A-D, Step Pulse, Tempo, Program/Performance Note Count, Program/Performance Voice Count, Poly Legato, Velocity, Exponential Velocity, Release Velocity, Gate, Gate+Damper, Note-On Trigger, Note-On Trigger+Damper, Note Number, Aftertouch and Poly Aftertouch (external MIDI only), MIDI CCs +/-, MIDI CCs +
Destinations
- Most parameters can be modulated, including individual steps of the Motion Sequence. Depending on the length of the Motion Sequence, there can be over 1,000 potential modulation targets per Program.
Effects
- Pre-FX: Decimator, Graphic EQ, Guitar Amp, Modern Compressor, Parametric EQ, Red, Compressor, Ring Modulator, Tremolo, Wave Shape
- Mod-FX: Black Chorus/Flanger, Black Phase, CX-3 Vibrato Chorus, EP Chorus, Harmonic Chorus, Modern Chorus, Modern Phaser, Orange Phase, Polysix Ensemble, Small Phase, Talking Modulator, Vintage Chorus, Vintage Flanger, Vintage/Custom Wah, Vox Wah
- Delay: L/C/R Delay, Multiband Mod Delay, Reverse Delay, Stereo/Cross Delay, Tape Echo
- Master Reverb: Early Reflections, Overb
- Master EQ: 4-band parametric equalizer
General
- Inputs/Outputs: headphone (6.3 mm stereo jack), L/MONO and R outputs (6.3 mm TRS jacks), Damper (6.3 mm jack), MIDI IN and OUT connectors, USB B port
- Power supply: AC adapter (DC12V, 2500 mA)
- Power consumption: 5 W
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 565 x 338 x 92 mm
- Weight: 2.9 kg
- Included items: AC adapter, quick start guide
- Accessories (sold separately): DS-1H sustain pedal, PS-3 switch pedals
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