small detail: its up to 80 voice polyphony (i think I say 60 in the vid as this was the number I was told and I cant press more than 59 keys at once to test 😂)
@@glennmckenzie1096 Sadly YES! I could not believe it! But the original and second release Yamaha DX7 keyboards were at least bitimbral. The Korg Volca FM is mono timbral as well as the Yamaha DX200. I am baffled as to why cause with even the VolcaFM and FM2 you have at least 3 to 6 note poly respectively and Korg could have made the synths multitimbral with voice allocation like on Yamaha's FB01,YS200,etc. in order to allow at least one monophonic voice per midi channel. I know Roland does it as well as Kawai if I am not mistaken. Casio CZ line of synths did that too! It boggles me mind! 😛
The danger of watching a BoBeats video is that sometimes money is transferred from my bank account to random music stores after watching. I have no explanation why this happens, though. ;-) As always, a fantastic and entertaining video which brushes all the important features at a brisk pace without feeling rushed. Thanks!
Opsix is still one of my favorite synths. It's the one I feel no one has really gone deep with, in 20 years people will still be making new crazy sounds. I still dream of a Mashup of all 3 in the series though, FM your wavetables with Vector modulation.... Could you imagine?
The original (despite the cheap feel) is hands down my favorite synth ever 2nd only to the Access Virus. I *do* wish they implemented the Yamaha OG envelopes but I'm not crying about it.
Wish the layout wasn’t stuck the same space as the original and it was more spread out. Korg always giving the ppl 80% of what they want. awesome they made it full size though finally
If you're looking for something to perform live with, it's really reasonably priced for the build quality and by far the best FM option available. Most similar quality synths cost more and don't come with a case, sadly.
@nebula393 It's hard to put a value on a case but the Korg one looks just as good as the gator case to me 🤷 My 61 key synths are over 2k so this seems like a great deal to me.
@@funkingitup1805 That depends on you! Some of my friends love their hydra and I wound up selling mine. It’s certainly powerful enough to be anyone’s main synth for sure
I'm sorry but 2400bucks ?? How does making the same exact synth just bigger with a better keybed and some additional voices warrant a 2000dollars increase in price ? This is mental.
I can see your logic but it's not exactly the same. It has a faster processor, much higher polyphony, much better keybed, much nicer and more professional body, is Made in Japan (and that really is worth something) and it will sell in smaller numbers Than the original opsix which means the per unit cost has to be higher. I can buy a $500 Strat or a $5000 Strat, are they the exact same guitars? I have six strings, frets, single coil pickups etc so why is the price so much higher? Because the overall quality is so much better. In other words this is more than just accountancy and component costs.
Wow, its very 80s minimalist looking, with hints of Korg's own DSS-1, Yammy DX7, Korg M1 and late 80s Kawai K5 synth. Not sure if I could ever justify owning such a large and expensive synth though!
The synth market is super interesting. I've been lusting after various synths since 1980 and I remember when you could get a used MiniMoog for $300 because everyone wanted FM, and then you get get a used DX 7 for $300 because everyone wanted sampling, and now everything costs a lot of money... and you can get roughly the same sounds on your computer for next to nothing (comparatively). And Korg can sell an evolution of the DX 7 for over two grand. If you're into FM synthesis and have money, this does look really cool. It certainly sounds great. Between plugins, Behringer clones of things, and reissues, there's never been a better time to get into synths... or a more confusing one. This channel is great for explaining things and letting users draw their own conclusions. That's why I keep coming back!
Nice review Bo! Opsix is a fantastic synth I don't know what Korg is asking for in terms of price But the 329$ blow out made this an instant buy and I recommend this today to anyone who loves FM. This New generation FM synth for sure.
I was also fortunate to get the 329 deal. I will not be buying the 61 key overpriced board. I am seriously considering the module upgrade or even creating my own chassis. Putting all 3 synths in one box would have been incredible. Making it tri-timbral would have been even cooler. I own the modwave as well. I was hesitant about the wavestate but just got a chance to play it and am considering it once the prices drop on the 1.0 version. I do have a Wavestation EX which is why I did not pull the trigger on all 3.
I'm really happy they did this. I bought the original one right before they blew them out (like a month) and it's a fantastic synth. Not sure if it fits in the budget for a while - I'm also not a great keyboardist - and I wish they added something else on top to justify the price premium ... but the opsix sound engine is great.
In the end it is the same machine wrapped in a bigger box with a better keyboard... which means you already have it, no need to get "G.A.S" over this one... most people tend to have a master keyboard laying around they can use anyhow... for somebody who just wants one synth in his setup this might really be an option and to be fair this should have been an option right from the start along with a desktop module. But I guess they should have made a really nice universal desktop module for all of those including wave and mod as midi controllers for those VSTs and maybe swappable HDs to change the functionality in standalone to whatever you wish to use at the time ( wave, mod, opsix, and future models.)
@@philxdev yeah exactly, this is on par with astronomically comical prices you'd get with Teenage Engineering.... 2000 for a bigger case and a better keybed has to be an april fool's joke.
@@jimmypierson1980 A joke or the ongoing market research genius of Korg? Before any of this RPi platform ever greenlit for development years ago the whole thing had to meet certain business requirements. The synths had to be at least somewhat unique, but with a clearly established desired voice architecture. They had to initially sell at a low price while keeping at least 4X 1st gen margin. They must have a LONG and WIDE incremental upgrade path. Out of the park grand slam on all 3 for Wavestate - 2nd tier bleachers for Opsix - at least a double w/RBI for Modwave. Guaranteed the roadmap of incremental new features (minor every 6-12 months and major/hardware every 12-24 months) has been in place for a while. Bi-timbrality for this, dedicated outs/layer, routable FX/layer, Poly AT, engine (Modwave, Wavestate, Opsix) choice/patch with physical interface mashup of all 3 to be followed a year or two later with bi-timbrality capability for that. I also expect a granular synth with as much in common as possible for the physical interface maybe by holidays, but probably spring. Korg RARELY builds anything unless they KNOW it will sell. Clearly not to you (or me), but they are going to sell a LOT of these...
@@philxdev I know, I just really love the opsix and they discontinued it w/the blowout, I'm just really happy they aren't completely abandoning the product line.
@@if_dots well i can only imagine that the current "production run" is discontinued. this won´t be the last we will see of some fm based thing like the opsix from korg and given they probably release this SE version which still has all the internals of the "regular" opsix... it is in the end just a case and a cheap keyboard away from being re-released... and who knows an MK2 might be on the horizon anyhow... still no need for fomo^^ there are plenty to go around and to be honest many more things in the synth sector to be released as it seems to have gotten some traction in the consumer world for quite some time.
I have a MODX 8. The screen is at least 3x the size of the op, there are 8 operators, the history of Yamaha Fm synthesis - they do it well - plus sample playback, virtual analog, 128 note polyphony, sequencer…and a similar used price. I can’t see why I would swap, aftertouch?
Great review, I really liked this format. Teaching the basics to someone else (in person, not just to the camera) is a great way to see how it works. I've had the Opsix for quite a while but it was helpful to see it from this perspective. The included hard case definitely hints that KORG wants this to be a stage synth. I hope the keyboard has poly AT and not just channel AT!
The AT is channel AT as per ALL Panasonic keybeds used by: Technics, Korg, Kawai, and older odd brands like Hammond Suzuki, Lync, and so on. Poly AT seems to be limited to keybeds made in Italy and now China.. with the exception of ROLAND which used the D50 and HP3000 keybeds in their A50(76 key)and A80(88 key) Midi master mother keyboard controllers of 1989. And in even rarer occasions, WOOD keyed keybeds as in the Kurzweil Midiboard, and 250 Sampler and Yamaha DX1 76 note flagship DX synth as well as the Arp/Rhodes? T8 and Yamaha GS1, CS80.. Sadly, NONE of the Panasonic keybeds have the tech for the poly AT feature. I suspect that Korg will have a new unique keybed design if they do implement the Poly AT tech in the future on any of their yet to be released keyboards.
@@pianokeyjoe Now I'm curious. Do you mean that the Roland D-50 keybed supports Poly AT? The same keybed is used in many Roland synths, like JX-8P, Juno-106, AJ2 etc.
@@patsonmusic Sadly NO. I referred to the KEY type of the A50 as D50 style keybed with poly AT. Roland only ever made 2 keyboards with Poly AT keybeds and those are the A50(76 not D50 style keys but with a poly AT sensor board underneath the keys), and the A80(88 fully weighted HP3000 digital piano style keys but with Poly AT sensor board underneath those keys). The poly AT sensors in the Roland A50/80 was a rigid graphite board like the main note contact board but instead of rubber dome switches, the AT board that was more towards the front of the black keys and the front of the white keys(2 boards yes), had little black chip under each key called a HALL EFFECT Switch. It was triggered by the Steel/Lead weight under the keys and would act as a variable transistor or something like that. The Ensoniq SQ80 uses a inductor coil on the contact board itself and a stainless metal strip under each key would trigger the inductive coil pattern on the board. On the Kurzweil Poly AT MIDIBOARD the wood keys had a conductive rubber bumper at the end of each key attatched to a ground wire and would strike and touch a copper pad mounted to an aluminum chassis and that varied the capacitance of each key depending on how hard you pressed each key and how fast you struck the key(Poly AT and Velocity). The processor boards for all these classic 80s Poly AT keyboards were massive! And every one of these keyboard always had some kind of failure or stability issue too. So until I can buy and explore the tech used for Poly AT in the HydraSynth line or the more expensive Arturia Iridium? I will not be able to say what is going on there yet.Doubt that Korg or any of the major brands will EVER employ Poly AT.. sucks but I think it is true.
awesome synth and the quality of the build looks great, but please Korg, release a module for people like me with limited space who already own a premium midi keyboard.
@@Jason75913 I'm not surprised that they weren't selling enough, to be fair though, the build quality on the standard opsix/modwave/wavestate is pretty average IMO, I owned two of them for a short time and sent them back because the keybeds felt terrible and uninspiring. I personally prefer using my Novation SL MKIII mapped with the VST's now, so a module would've been nice for the pre-mapped control and basic integration, even with the only "ok" feeling knobs and sliders on those units.
Great review and fantastic synth. I remember one very good comment about Opsix FM sonic power. It simply can give deep bass and very high frequences on same time what is not possible or difficult to get on rest of subtractive synths.
Funny enough, the OG opsix was "Bad Gear" a few days ago, and the conclusion was "we need an opsix SE". Me, I hope this means more updates etc. for all formats.
They coulda put more knobs on that case. That's the part that gets me about the price of these SE synths... at least for the Wavestate, the more knobs, the merrier. I'm sure there are plenty more opsix parameters, too, for which that would make sense. It's good that they seem to have improved the encoders, at least.
Just looking at the picture and: - tiny 90s display ✅ - small and few knobs and sliders ✅ - drawings and lots of empty space where there should have been more knobs and sliders ✅
The money will get you a MODX+ with both FM-X and AWM2 sound engines. No aftertouch but the 61 key version is a large discount over this. I would do that before buying the Korg.
At £2000+ in the UK, this (like the Wavestate SE) is for premium gear junkies only. I can't help thinking that Korg have approached this range of synths kinda back to front. To me it would have made more sense to release the full sized versions first, create a buzz and FOMO in the rest of us that can't afford them and then hit us with the smaller, much more affordable versions (and/or desktops). People would be "wow I'm getting an Opsix (premium, modern DX7 synth) for such a reasonable price!!" Instead many of us are thinking "Yeah that's nice, but an extra £1500 for a synth that's already become a meme for how cheap it became, just in a different shell, keyboard and hardcase half of us will never use?.. maybe not" Prediction: either a massive price drop within the first year of release (maybe once a Modwave SE has also been released and has been out a little while) Or they reconfigure the 'budget entry point' to offer desktop versions. Also as an aside it's worth considering (for instance) that ASM can offer the HydraSynth (some might say, a much more versatile, quality digital synth) much cheaper. Even the HydraSynth Deluxe version is £500 less than this currently. Personally I'm going to stick with the 'toy' version of Opsix for now.
"If you have the original Opsix and are happy with it I see no reason to upgrade" very fair & honest comment Bo... I'm torn over getting the Wavestate SE version? I love the Wavestate but maybe I could just use a midi controller that has aftertouch and upgrade the patches to those with that parameter?
For that kinda money I would expect a better sequencer than just 16 steps. Hopefully korg find a way to implement envelope rate scaling, add more fx and modulation options.
The Opsix line is far and away the best hardware implementation of fm synthesis. I just go back and forth on if I want to spend $2k on the newest version or approximately $400 for a smaller, plastic-y version with the same controls. Like Bo, it isn’t like I can play the keys well so having the worse keybed doesn’t mean much as I won’t really be using them either way
honestly I hope they bring the smaller version back. I wasn't able to get one when they were available. I know I could get a used one. This is really cool but no way I would have room for it.
The Korg RPi "platform" is yet another great longterm investment for them they will be benefitting from a LONG time. If one wants a full size FM synth today with a good 5 octave+ keybed the MODX and MODX+ are the only alternatives and they are really quite different animals. Wavestate is unique and this might as well be which is a great place to be for Korg. It makes 5X margins a lot easier to maintain. Also, including the case is genius as it makes that $2k price a bit less hard to swallow for some. For me personally I will wait until this and the inevitable Mk2 are out for a minute then get a Mk1 for $300.
Another solid video. Adding more voices while still using the Raspberry PI CPU is a non-starter; it will mean even more crashes than with the OG. The CPU is underpowered and can be easily brought to its knees when utilizing user algorithms and extensive cross modulation. It looks like Korg is taking a page from the InMusic playback by releasing iterations of already existing platforms without addressing known issues. Well done Korg.
Ah! I want one! 😃I have the OG version and the plugin. I have no place to put the bigger KB, though. It can read DX7 patches but there is no guarantee that they will sound exactly the same. Nick Batt mentioned in his review that it is still a good way to start a patch. The OG version was just on "Bad Gear." It is always fun when a synth I own and like shows up there 😛
I bought an Analog Hard case for the OG little plastic one that I got for $329. It’s an amazing little synth and I’m considering the plugins of the OpSix, Modwave, and Wavestate. The SE is probably great for actual touring or gig musicians. It doesn’t appeal to my needs, but the dashboard on this thing is very large for different FX pedals like the Microcosm or anything from Chase Bliss. I mention these pedals because the FX in the OpSix are pretty good to build out your sounds.
Loved the video and the S O U N D S! I have the OG Opsix and love it to death, and I was kinda hoping they would go the other way: Opsix and Wavestate modules.
I have the opsix and Wavestate, and the plug-ins for both. After much use of the hardware and software, I can tell you that the hardware sounds better than the software, and there are certain things that the software does differently than the hardware , small things. (sorry I can’t quote them this minute.) I don’t care that the overall function is exactly the same as the smaller hardware versions. I love these synths so much I want to get both of the SE’s. I have been thinking for a while to get two more of the originals to play next to each other. That’s how much I love these. I’ve got used to the workflow with both synths, and to me, it’s no problem to move quickly and get what I want. Sure I wish they had 50 more knobs on them. Maybe the mark three will have that. Korg, if you’re reading this, thank you. One more thing Korg (because we know that they are reading this.) I don’t care how much it would cost to build the dream synth that is this op, 6 with mini patch points and knobs. Or more sliders. But if you could put some CV patch points like a lot of them like a stupid amount I don’t care how much it would cost. the most difficult thing to do on this synth is to assign modulation. I hope you can improve that. Thanks bro you are the man I love your videos I watch them all.
@@dbefore7165 hardware has it's own sound, computers have their own sound. If this wasn't true, no one would buy hardware. I like the sound of hardware. And I never said the word "worse". the software is amazing. Hardware has character. Software is sterile . That's my experience in having tons and tons of software, and have had about 40 or more hardware synths and drum machines. and also if what I'm saying isn't true, companies would not have a market for hardware.
@@dbefore7165 what's that have to do with it? nothing that's what. the AD converters and all the circuits of copper and what ever the hell they are using effects the sound. get both and find out. All software ultimately sound the same on a given computer system. because it's going through the same circuits and D/A converters. and before that happens, its just zeros and ones. it's like being in the room with a real drum set and then a digital computer drum set . same thing. real Marshall stack and shitty computer modeled marshal stack, which, FYI has been a elusive snake for the software side. ZERO soft amps sound anywhere close to the real thing. Same thing .
I recognize all the presets lol, they are from the little Opsix. The keybed is made by Matsushita Electric(Panasonic/Technics division). Metal keybed frame, semi weighted or synth action weighted keys and thankfully each key is replaceable and very available in the US. The only gripe? No multi timbrel midi operation for $1800? I am happy with my little $599 used opsix(I paid too much but I love my synth so..yeh).
.............some could argue that, a good akai midi 61 keys fully assignable through quick controls and a Rob Papen Blue II software synth could do the same job at a third of the price. But when considering an 'out of the box go ahead' and easy chassis real time tweak capabilities then, it makes sense. About the price though, I would argue around the 1200 to 1400 uk price point rather than 1800 approx. It is a very worthy synth without a doubt and the first for some time I actually find myself drooling at. Price too high though IMO. But all in all a great effort. Nice one.
Anyone who at least likes if not loves the opsix OG should meanwhile own a decent MIDI controller capable of (channel of not per-key) aftertouch. So the SE's upgraded keybed isn't a selling point IMHO. If you are new to this machine, get yourself a used opsix OG from an "upgrader" along with any used or even new MODAL 8x model and you're still below or around the 1k limit ... and have a so-to-speak complimentary free synth along with a decent Fatar 61-key aftertouch-enabled semi-weighted keybed. What do you think? A modern wavetable or VA synth to complement your new more-than-just-FM miracle? And let me add one of the long-term community cravings to the list of missed opportunities: KORG should have listened carefully and given us the highly requested module/desktop version of the opsix. In an all-metal casing with the additional voices of polyphony. That would have made me consider upgrading my OG by actually downsizing and controlling it from my Hydrasynth Explorer with no space wasted for the plasticky 37-key keybed that lacks aftertouch entirely. Last but not least: Nice show, folks 👍
One thing is really a shame (at least in my opinion) : korg made it 80 voices and more keys... But it's still mono - timbral 😔. A layer / split option is missing here, especially for the price.
I'm pretty sure there's a split option, as there's one on the opsix, it's just kinda hidden in the menu diving lol evenso, this thing is ridiculously overpriced for what you get imo
@@brandonharkins6900 If I remember correctly you can have a work around for the split points in programming the key follow of the carrier operators to your liking. But that's within one sound patch (as you use 3 operators for the left half and the other 3 operators for the right half of the keyboard). So for example you can't choose the piano patch for the left and the string patch on the right half : you will have to program that with the 6 operators of one sound Patch. I hope I remember it correctly, but I am quite sure 😊
Basically the version many fans called for. Superior/extended keybed and better build-quality. Now let's wait where the "street price" lands. The list price bump over the regular OPSIX is ambitious, to put it politely.
A list price of $1250 with occasional sales down to $900 would have been about right. $2000+ is a lot even though I really do believe this is a future classic.
Literally looks like and sounds like a modern day DX7, I should of bought the DX100 the mini DX7 when it come up for sale in a used goods store near Me, but I decided not to.
If only it was fully DX7 patch compatible. I bought a DX7 IID instead. The operator faders would have been nice to have but primarily I needed full compatibility.
Enlarging the synth was however an opportunity to add knobs, sliders and other direct controls .... and also to enlarge the screen. I always find Korg ito be out in left field ....
After seeing the opsix on bad gear I'm getting the little 37 key synth I'm sure I'll find one thing out of it that i like i do like the look of this one has that old vintage look
Why is it so dang huge? Yes, I know it's a bigger keyboard but when it comes to the noise parts it's really not that much different than the original. I would have been happier if they'd have made a smaller desktop module - especially with a heavy metal case - and hooked it up to my (already large) keyboard controller. No room on my desk for this monster. Sounds nice tho.
Actually there is a really good true to the original VST available from Korg to the original OPSIX - for as you can imagine a fraction of the cost. As far as the closest you could get in the market - I would like to put this up against a Yamaha MODX+ or Montage... I am basicing the build quality on your description so - I guess we are probably talking more like a Montage build less like a MODX+ (which is the plasticy cousin on the Montage - but still sounds really good). Just a thought
Thanks Bo for the nice review! Informative as usual :) Owning quite a few synths and also used to own the OG opsix and will get it back for sure...usually I also can somehow argue why sth. is ok to be that expensive....but for over 2k....i don't know. I kindof understand KORG's move by making them three digital synths more premium to make money but just putting a little better keyboard on in does not do it for me. I also cannot understand the decision to put the knobs and all in the middle instead of the side. And for all the potential buyers: go somewhere to check out the faders because I didn't like the faders on the OG at all. they feel so cheap (which is ok for a 500€ synth). I am curious how others justify such a purchase compared to what you can get nowadays. I mean for this money you could buy a new laptop, get the native Opsix and lets say a SY99 (which has a great keybed) and you'll get new school fm and old school fm for the same price.... Let's see how this will be selling. I surely skip this one. A module would be waaaaay more needed imho (but would not bring the money, i understand).
small detail: its up to 80 voice polyphony (i think I say 60 in the vid as this was the number I was told and I cant press more than 59 keys at once to test 😂)
You can test that with unison; set it to 8 voices and it'll be a lot easier to reach the polyphony limit :)
😂
Bo, what about switching on time? How long does it take?
So much polyphony available but mono-timbral?
@@glennmckenzie1096 Sadly YES! I could not believe it! But the original and second release Yamaha DX7 keyboards were at least bitimbral. The Korg Volca FM is mono timbral as well as the Yamaha DX200. I am baffled as to why cause with even the VolcaFM and FM2 you have at least 3 to 6 note poly respectively and Korg could have made the synths multitimbral with voice allocation like on Yamaha's FB01,YS200,etc. in order to allow at least one monophonic voice per midi channel. I know Roland does it as well as Kawai if I am not mistaken. Casio CZ line of synths did that too! It boggles me mind! 😛
I love that the original just showed up on Bad Gear this week, and then this shows up.
Love is in the air
@@SuperRbertwrong. swag and yolo in the air
Was just thinking this.
You only yolo once
clearly Korg paid for a Bad Gear review. Just to sell you "the new shiny thing" which is just the facelift.
Glad I got the OPSIX on sale. This new version means the OG will likely have future firmware updates and replacement parts like the screen.
Proper balanced +4dBu XLR main out would be nice to see on SE series.
The danger of watching a BoBeats video is that sometimes money is transferred from my bank account to random music stores after watching. I have no explanation why this happens, though. ;-)
As always, a fantastic and entertaining video which brushes all the important features at a brisk pace without feeling rushed. Thanks!
Thank you!
.. I know, I know.. GAS is a baad beast.. 😢
@@andreasilvestri1696GAS is very real
Sticking to my OG plasticky one thanks.
Its about FREAKING time Korg released this version!!!
I think Korg have price their SE range really badly, specifically the Wavestate SE.
I agree. Plus,at least for me, both models add too little, too late.
Just wait for the 50% sale off
@@biggrime30years later?
@@biggrime still too expensive imo.
Cobalt 8X is 1500 here, the 37 key is 1K
@@dankeplace facts
Ok, this friggin rocks.... but I still wanted a module version.
Get the og opsix and chop it
Opsix is still one of my favorite synths. It's the one I feel no one has really gone deep with, in 20 years people will still be making new crazy sounds. I still dream of a Mashup of all 3 in the series though, FM your wavetables with Vector modulation.... Could you imagine?
The original (despite the cheap feel) is hands down my favorite synth ever 2nd only to the Access Virus. I *do* wish they implemented the Yamaha OG envelopes but I'm not crying about it.
Holy crap either AudioPilz just randomly predicted this on the last Bad Gear, or he knew it was coming and was just messing with everyone.
I watch that episode several times and after a while I made up my mind I want to buy that one (OPSIX OG) and now here goes the OPSIX SE. Crazy...
I had left a comment about how the OG pairs well with a full-sized workstation keyboard.
Korg teased this keyboard a long time ago, before they even released the Wavestate.
So much space and such a small screen! Good demo.
Great synth. The modulators and filters can even be used to allow Opsix mimic other synths
I like the 'retro' look on this - the brown control panel, knobs & sliders remind me of the old Korg Delta - my 2nd band had one in the 80's!
Finally. I’ve been waiting for this, merely hoping they would bring out a big version of the opsix, but we’re finally here. Lets goooo!
OH my. The did make it. Loved the original Opsix. Very cool.
Omg, so excited to see all the new features added!
Wish the layout wasn’t stuck the same space as the original and it was more spread out. Korg always giving the ppl 80% of what they want. awesome they made it full size though finally
With all the empty space on this synth they should have made a bigger screen for it.
That is something I thought about as well
There better be a Modwave SE coming also! That's the one I'm interested in.
I like the collabs! This synth is neat but too expensive
If you're looking for something to perform live with, it's really reasonably priced for the build quality and by far the best FM option available. Most similar quality synths cost more and don't come with a case, sadly.
@nebula393 It's hard to put a value on a case but the Korg one looks just as good as the gator case to me 🤷 My 61 key synths are over 2k so this seems like a great deal to me.
@@MistyMusicStudio I have an Opsix and love it, but better than the Hydrasynth? I don't know yet.
@@funkingitup1805 That depends on you! Some of my friends love their hydra and I wound up selling mine. It’s certainly powerful enough to be anyone’s main synth for sure
@@MistyMusicStudio I have a kodamo essence FM mark 2 it has 300 voices i only paid 1000. the korg opsix se is joke the for its price korg can eat shi.
I'm sorry but 2400bucks ?? How does making the same exact synth just bigger with a better keybed and some additional voices warrant a 2000dollars increase in price ?
This is mental.
yeah and it looks shit
I can see your logic but it's not exactly the same. It has a faster processor, much higher polyphony, much better keybed, much nicer and more professional body, is Made in Japan (and that really is worth something) and it will sell in smaller numbers Than the original opsix which means the per unit cost has to be higher. I can buy a $500 Strat or a $5000 Strat, are they the exact same guitars? I have six strings, frets, single coil pickups etc so why is the price so much higher? Because the overall quality is so much better. In other words this is more than just accountancy and component costs.
For that kind of money you can get a Waldorf Iridium...
@@ickebins6948 exactly
If it is any consolation, if you got a used one, resell the hard case for $400-500.
Wow, its very 80s minimalist looking, with hints of Korg's own DSS-1, Yammy DX7, Korg M1 and late 80s Kawai K5 synth. Not sure if I could ever justify owning such a large and expensive synth though!
Yeah price is prohibitive
I think the prototype looked better
Anyone whom manufactures an FM synth can’t but help to give a nod to the DX7 with their sounds and green buttons ….looks sturdy too 😊
Interesting but buying the regular when they blew them out with the summer steal gave me all the opsix I'll ever need.
This is cool but really makes me appreciate the Elektron form factor even more
I am just so happy they brought this out. I love the OG Opsix. Wonderful synth😍
No you dont, only pretends
I love the way they covered all the logos etc on the box… just to stop the DHL / FedEx guys from leaking to the press 😂
The synth market is super interesting. I've been lusting after various synths since 1980 and I remember when you could get a used MiniMoog for $300 because everyone wanted FM, and then you get get a used DX 7 for $300 because everyone wanted sampling, and now everything costs a lot of money... and you can get roughly the same sounds on your computer for next to nothing (comparatively). And Korg can sell an evolution of the DX 7 for over two grand. If you're into FM synthesis and have money, this does look really cool. It certainly sounds great. Between plugins, Behringer clones of things, and reissues, there's never been a better time to get into synths... or a more confusing one. This channel is great for explaining things and letting users draw their own conclusions. That's why I keep coming back!
Thank you BoBeats! Nice review, love this synth, nice dreamy sounds with a lot of textures, the presets!!!!!! so nice😍🥰❤
Wow I’m.finally buying this version!
Nice review Bo! Opsix is a fantastic synth I don't know what Korg is asking for in terms of price But the 329$ blow out made this an instant buy and I recommend this today to anyone who loves FM. This New generation FM synth for sure.
I was also fortunate to get the 329 deal. I will not be buying the 61 key overpriced board. I am seriously considering the module upgrade or even creating my own chassis. Putting all 3 synths in one box would have been incredible. Making it tri-timbral would have been even cooler. I own the modwave as well. I was hesitant about the wavestate but just got a chance to play it and am considering it once the prices drop on the 1.0 version. I do have a Wavestation EX which is why I did not pull the trigger on all 3.
I'm really happy they did this. I bought the original one right before they blew them out (like a month) and it's a fantastic synth. Not sure if it fits in the budget for a while - I'm also not a great keyboardist - and I wish they added something else on top to justify the price premium ... but the opsix sound engine is great.
In the end it is the same machine wrapped in a bigger box with a better keyboard... which means you already have it, no need to get "G.A.S" over this one... most people tend to have a master keyboard laying around they can use anyhow... for somebody who just wants one synth in his setup this might really be an option and to be fair this should have been an option right from the start along with a desktop module. But I guess they should have made a really nice universal desktop module for all of those including wave and mod as midi controllers for those VSTs and maybe swappable HDs to change the functionality in standalone to whatever you wish to use at the time ( wave, mod, opsix, and future models.)
@@philxdev yeah exactly, this is on par with astronomically comical prices you'd get with Teenage Engineering.... 2000 for a bigger case and a better keybed has to be an april fool's joke.
@@jimmypierson1980 A joke or the ongoing market research genius of Korg? Before any of this RPi platform ever greenlit for development years ago the whole thing had to meet certain business requirements. The synths had to be at least somewhat unique, but with a clearly established desired voice architecture. They had to initially sell at a low price while keeping at least 4X 1st gen margin. They must have a LONG and WIDE incremental upgrade path. Out of the park grand slam on all 3 for Wavestate - 2nd tier bleachers for Opsix - at least a double w/RBI for Modwave. Guaranteed the roadmap of incremental new features (minor every 6-12 months and major/hardware every 12-24 months) has been in place for a while. Bi-timbrality for this, dedicated outs/layer, routable FX/layer, Poly AT, engine (Modwave, Wavestate, Opsix) choice/patch with physical interface mashup of all 3 to be followed a year or two later with bi-timbrality capability for that. I also expect a granular synth with as much in common as possible for the physical interface maybe by holidays, but probably spring. Korg RARELY builds anything unless they KNOW it will sell. Clearly not to you (or me), but they are going to sell a LOT of these...
@@philxdev I know, I just really love the opsix and they discontinued it w/the blowout, I'm just really happy they aren't completely abandoning the product line.
@@if_dots well i can only imagine that the current "production run" is discontinued. this won´t be the last we will see of some fm based thing like the opsix from korg and given they probably release this SE version which still has all the internals of the "regular" opsix... it is in the end just a case and a cheap keyboard away from being re-released... and who knows an MK2 might be on the horizon anyhow... still no need for fomo^^ there are plenty to go around and to be honest many more things in the synth sector to be released as it seems to have gotten some traction in the consumer world for quite some time.
I have a MODX 8. The screen is at least 3x the size of the op, there are 8 operators, the history of Yamaha Fm synthesis - they do it well - plus sample playback, virtual analog, 128 note polyphony, sequencer…and a similar used price. I can’t see why I would swap, aftertouch?
The modx doesn’t have va
Don't swap, period.
Armen did a great job, it was nice to see someone new to synthesis but very good as a player attack this SE. When he called you Boo I smiled.
Great review, I really liked this format. Teaching the basics to someone else (in person, not just to the camera) is a great way to see how it works. I've had the Opsix for quite a while but it was helpful to see it from this perspective. The included hard case definitely hints that KORG wants this to be a stage synth. I hope the keyboard has poly AT and not just channel AT!
From what i know its regular AT
The AT is channel AT as per ALL Panasonic keybeds used by: Technics, Korg, Kawai, and older odd brands like Hammond Suzuki, Lync, and so on. Poly AT seems to be limited to keybeds made in Italy and now China.. with the exception of ROLAND which used the D50 and HP3000 keybeds in their A50(76 key)and A80(88 key) Midi master mother keyboard controllers of 1989. And in even rarer occasions, WOOD keyed keybeds as in the Kurzweil Midiboard, and 250 Sampler and Yamaha DX1 76 note flagship DX synth as well as the Arp/Rhodes? T8 and Yamaha GS1, CS80.. Sadly, NONE of the Panasonic keybeds have the tech for the poly AT feature. I suspect that Korg will have a new unique keybed design if they do implement the Poly AT tech in the future on any of their yet to be released keyboards.
nope, no poly AT
@@pianokeyjoe Now I'm curious. Do you mean that the Roland D-50 keybed supports Poly AT? The same keybed is used in many Roland synths, like JX-8P, Juno-106, AJ2 etc.
@@patsonmusic Sadly NO. I referred to the KEY type of the A50 as D50 style keybed with poly AT. Roland only ever made 2 keyboards with Poly AT keybeds and those are the A50(76 not D50 style keys but with a poly AT sensor board underneath the keys), and the A80(88 fully weighted HP3000 digital piano style keys but with Poly AT sensor board underneath those keys). The poly AT sensors in the Roland A50/80 was a rigid graphite board like the main note contact board but instead of rubber dome switches, the AT board that was more towards the front of the black keys and the front of the white keys(2 boards yes), had little black chip under each key called a HALL EFFECT Switch. It was triggered by the Steel/Lead weight under the keys and would act as a variable transistor or something like that. The Ensoniq SQ80 uses a inductor coil on the contact board itself and a stainless metal strip under each key would trigger the inductive coil pattern on the board. On the Kurzweil Poly AT MIDIBOARD the wood keys had a conductive rubber bumper at the end of each key attatched to a ground wire and would strike and touch a copper pad mounted to an aluminum chassis and that varied the capacitance of each key depending on how hard you pressed each key and how fast you struck the key(Poly AT and Velocity). The processor boards for all these classic 80s Poly AT keyboards were massive! And every one of these keyboard always had some kind of failure or stability issue too. So until I can buy and explore the tech used for Poly AT in the HydraSynth line or the more expensive Arturia Iridium? I will not be able to say what is going on there yet.Doubt that Korg or any of the major brands will EVER employ Poly AT.. sucks but I think it is true.
Loved watching you guys having fun building patches and trying presets! That thing sounds wild, long live FM 🤘
awesome synth and the quality of the build looks great, but please Korg, release a module for people like me with limited space who already own a premium midi keyboard.
they gave up on modules because they do not sell enough, Minilogue XD desktop is the last they'll ever do, they announced
There is a desktop conversion kit already
@@dbefore7165 Yes, there is, but it is at a significant cost that makes it difficult to justify for me personally.
@@Jason75913 I'm not surprised that they weren't selling enough, to be fair though, the build quality on the standard opsix/modwave/wavestate is pretty average IMO, I owned two of them for a short time and sent them back because the keybeds felt terrible and uninspiring.
I personally prefer using my Novation SL MKIII mapped with the VST's now, so a module would've been nice for the pre-mapped control and basic integration, even with the only "ok" feeling knobs and sliders on those units.
Another great video and still one of the nicest people on RUclips. Top man!
Great review and fantastic synth. I remember one very good comment about Opsix FM sonic power. It simply can give deep bass and very high frequences on same time what is not possible or difficult to get on rest of subtractive synths.
Reminds me of my Yamaha DX27 from the 80s. That first synth had an FM operator learning curve the size of Mount Everest, for sure.
The Opsix is very easy to get started on, but then the depth is super deep.
This is fantastic. About time someone took the DX-7 to a new level with proper hands-on control.
Such a pity it's not fully DX7 patch compatible.
Funny enough, the OG opsix was "Bad Gear" a few days ago, and the conclusion was "we need an opsix SE". Me, I hope this means more updates etc. for all formats.
Bad Gear gets on my nerves😂
Thanks! This is a great review. Also really liked the track you made. ❤
Thank you!
They coulda put more knobs on that case. That's the part that gets me about the price of these SE synths... at least for the Wavestate, the more knobs, the merrier. I'm sure there are plenty more opsix parameters, too, for which that would make sense. It's good that they seem to have improved the encoders, at least.
Just looking at the picture and:
- tiny 90s display ✅
- small and few knobs and sliders ✅
- drawings and lots of empty space where there should have been more knobs and sliders ✅
The money will get you a MODX+ with both FM-X and AWM2 sound engines. No aftertouch but the 61 key version is a large discount over this. I would do that before buying the Korg.
At £2000+ in the UK, this (like the Wavestate SE) is for premium gear junkies only.
I can't help thinking that Korg have approached this range of synths kinda back to front.
To me it would have made more sense to release the full sized versions first, create a buzz and FOMO in the rest of us that can't afford them and then hit us with the smaller, much more affordable versions (and/or desktops).
People would be "wow I'm getting an Opsix (premium, modern DX7 synth) for such a reasonable price!!"
Instead many of us are thinking "Yeah that's nice, but an extra £1500 for a synth that's already become a meme for how cheap it became, just in a different shell, keyboard and hardcase half of us will never use?.. maybe not"
Prediction: either a massive price drop within the first year of release (maybe once a Modwave SE has also been released and has been out a little while)
Or they reconfigure the 'budget entry point' to offer desktop versions.
Also as an aside it's worth considering (for instance) that ASM can offer the HydraSynth (some might say, a much more versatile, quality digital synth) much cheaper.
Even the HydraSynth Deluxe version is £500 less than this currently.
Personally I'm going to stick with the 'toy' version of Opsix for now.
So this is more expensive than the modx?!
Get the small one it's less then £350 then buy a Arturia keylab essential for £150 for the full keys.
Thats such a cool synth! And you both did a great job demoing and exolaining it!
Karg has made everything biggest..but forget the display..😂
I've been waiting for a smaller (module) version, not a bigger one!
"If you have the original Opsix and are happy with it I see no reason to upgrade" very fair & honest comment Bo... I'm torn over getting the Wavestate SE version? I love the Wavestate but maybe I could just use a midi controller that has aftertouch and upgrade the patches to those with that parameter?
sounds more than ok it sounds superb!
Finally, the DS-8 gets replaced!!!
For that kinda money I would expect a better sequencer than just 16 steps. Hopefully korg find a way to implement envelope rate scaling, add more fx and modulation options.
That would break patch compatibility
Explain that one??
The Opsix line is far and away the best hardware implementation of fm synthesis. I just go back and forth on if I want to spend $2k on the newest version or approximately $400 for a smaller, plastic-y version with the same controls. Like Bo, it isn’t like I can play the keys well so having the worse keybed doesn’t mean much as I won’t really be using them either way
honestly I hope they bring the smaller version back. I wasn't able to get one when they were available. I know I could get a used one. This is really cool but no way I would have room for it.
Som jag väntat på 61 tangenter! Somvanligt, bra video! (Translate from Swedish: Is I have waited for the 61 key version. As usual a great video :D)
Is there gonna be a modwave se?
I just got a modwave and I love it
The Korg RPi "platform" is yet another great longterm investment for them they will be benefitting from a LONG time. If one wants a full size FM synth today with a good 5 octave+ keybed the MODX and MODX+ are the only alternatives and they are really quite different animals. Wavestate is unique and this might as well be which is a great place to be for Korg. It makes 5X margins a lot easier to maintain. Also, including the case is genius as it makes that $2k price a bit less hard to swallow for some. For me personally I will wait until this and the inevitable Mk2 are out for a minute then get a Mk1 for $300.
Genuinely interested in this but the lack of true bitimbrality....especially on a 61 keybed seems like a major oversight.
Another solid video.
Adding more voices while still using the Raspberry PI CPU is a non-starter; it will mean even more crashes than with the OG. The CPU is underpowered and can be easily brought to its knees when utilizing user algorithms and extensive cross modulation. It looks like Korg is taking a page from the InMusic playback by releasing iterations of already existing platforms without addressing known issues. Well done Korg.
It’s a faster pi model
Ah! I want one! 😃I have the OG version and the plugin. I have no place to put the bigger KB, though. It can read DX7 patches but there is no guarantee that they will sound exactly the same. Nick Batt mentioned in his review that it is still a good way to start a patch. The OG version was just on "Bad Gear." It is always fun when a synth I own and like shows up there 😛
Haha! OpSix SE seems like a Yamaha DX7 :) Sounds are amazing. I'm owner of Korg Wavestate. This is excellent synth also.
Maybe the last bad gear episode actually made an impact on Korg
lol that was too quick
Yes. They saw it and developed the Opsix SE in 2 weeks ...
@@RustyTonesJr actually it was in 3 days only. Those people from planet Korg are super efficient
I bought an Analog Hard case for the OG little plastic one that I got for $329. It’s an amazing little synth and I’m considering the plugins of the OpSix, Modwave, and Wavestate. The SE is probably great for actual touring or gig musicians. It doesn’t appeal to my needs, but the dashboard on this thing is very large for different FX pedals like the Microcosm or anything from Chase Bliss. I mention these pedals because the FX in the OpSix are pretty good to build out your sounds.
Loved the video and the S O U N D S! I have the OG Opsix and love it to death, and I was kinda hoping they would go the other way: Opsix and Wavestate modules.
I have the opsix and Wavestate, and the plug-ins for both. After much use of the hardware and software, I can tell you that the hardware sounds better than the software, and there are certain things that the software does differently than the hardware , small things. (sorry I can’t quote them this minute.) I don’t care that the overall function is exactly the same as the smaller hardware versions. I love these synths so much I want to get both of the SE’s. I have been thinking for a while to get two more of the originals to play next to each other. That’s how much I love these. I’ve got used to the workflow with both synths, and to me, it’s no problem to move quickly and get what I want. Sure I wish they had 50 more knobs on them. Maybe the mark three will have that. Korg, if you’re reading this, thank you. One more thing Korg (because we know that they are reading this.) I don’t care how much it would cost to build the dream synth that is this op, 6 with mini patch points and knobs. Or more sliders. But if you could put some CV patch points like a lot of them like a stupid amount I don’t care how much it would cost. the most difficult thing to do on this synth is to assign modulation. I hope you can improve that. Thanks bro you are the man I love your videos I watch them all.
Yes, they go and make a massive unit like this but don't put on extra knobs. What a waste.
Why would the software sound worse? When it’s running on a better cpu and better dacs?
@@dbefore7165 hardware has it's own sound, computers have their own sound. If this wasn't true, no one would buy hardware. I like the sound of hardware. And I never said the word "worse". the software is amazing. Hardware has character. Software is sterile . That's my experience in having tons and tons of software, and have had about 40 or more hardware synths and drum machines. and also if what I'm saying isn't true, companies would not have a market for hardware.
@@dbefore7165 what's that have to do with it? nothing that's what. the AD converters and all the circuits of copper and what ever the hell they are using effects the sound. get both and find out. All software ultimately sound the same on a given computer system. because it's going through the same circuits and D/A converters. and before that happens, its just zeros and ones. it's like being in the room with a real drum set and then a digital computer drum set . same thing. real Marshall stack and shitty computer modeled marshal stack, which, FYI has been a elusive snake for the software side. ZERO soft amps sound anywhere close to the real thing. Same thing .
@@InFamousProductions but digital hardware synths are just computers in keyboard shaped boxes, the code is made on a pc..
Sound is crazy :)
I recognize all the presets lol, they are from the little Opsix. The keybed is made by Matsushita Electric(Panasonic/Technics division). Metal keybed frame, semi weighted or synth action weighted keys and thankfully each key is replaceable and very available in the US. The only gripe? No multi timbrel midi operation for $1800? I am happy with my little $599 used opsix(I paid too much but I love my synth so..yeh).
4:34 The Doogie Howser, M.D. sound LOL
That's literally the only thing I can think of when I hear that sound lol
@@wingoshack😂 Lol
Wow!🎉
Not helping my gas ⛽️ though…. I love those modulated sounds.
What an amazing synth...!!!
Gorgeous, Kind of Sony Design, should buy two, just Stick one on the Living room Wall
.............some could argue that, a good akai midi 61 keys fully assignable through quick controls and a Rob Papen Blue II software synth could do the same job at a third of the price. But when considering an 'out of the box go ahead' and easy chassis real time tweak capabilities then, it makes sense. About the price though, I would argue around the 1200 to 1400 uk price point rather than 1800 approx. It is a very worthy synth without a doubt and the first for some time I actually find myself drooling at. Price too high though IMO. But all in all a great effort. Nice one.
Damn! This mighty behemoth will retail for £1899 (around $2400 American) 😮😢🤑
Anyone who at least likes if not loves the opsix OG should meanwhile own a decent MIDI controller capable of (channel of not per-key) aftertouch. So the SE's upgraded keybed isn't a selling point IMHO. If you are new to this machine, get yourself a used opsix OG from an "upgrader" along with any used or even new MODAL 8x model and you're still below or around the 1k limit ... and have a so-to-speak complimentary free synth along with a decent Fatar 61-key aftertouch-enabled semi-weighted keybed. What do you think? A modern wavetable or VA synth to complement your new more-than-just-FM miracle?
And let me add one of the long-term community cravings to the list of missed opportunities: KORG should have listened carefully and given us the highly requested module/desktop version of the opsix. In an all-metal casing with the additional voices of polyphony. That would have made me consider upgrading my OG by actually downsizing and controlling it from my Hydrasynth Explorer with no space wasted for the plasticky 37-key keybed that lacks aftertouch entirely.
Last but not least: Nice show, folks 👍
One thing is really a shame (at least in my opinion) : korg made it 80 voices and more keys... But it's still mono - timbral 😔.
A layer / split option is missing here, especially for the price.
I'm pretty sure there's a split option, as there's one on the opsix, it's just kinda hidden in the menu diving lol evenso, this thing is ridiculously overpriced for what you get imo
@@brandonharkins6900 If I remember correctly you can have a work around for the split points in programming the key follow of the carrier operators to your liking. But that's within one sound patch (as you use 3 operators for the left half and the other 3 operators for the right half of the keyboard).
So for example you can't choose the piano patch for the left and the string patch on the right half : you will have to program that with the 6 operators of one sound Patch.
I hope I remember it correctly, but I am quite sure 😊
Basically the version many fans called for. Superior/extended keybed and better build-quality. Now let's wait where the "street price" lands. The list price bump over the regular OPSIX is ambitious, to put it politely.
Yeah its definitely a tad too expensive, to put it politely
A list price of $1250 with occasional sales down to $900 would have been about right. $2000+ is a lot even though I really do believe this is a future classic.
I'm afraid to check the price.....looks amazing though.
This is $2400. A Hydrasynth Deluxe is $1800. Korg ya dun goofed.
Literally looks like and sounds like a modern day DX7, I should of bought the DX100 the mini DX7 when it come up for sale in a used goods store near Me, but I decided not to.
Waiting for Korg to make a Volca Opsix 😎
Imagine if Korg redesigned this with the same exact features as the Akai MPC KEY 61 ? Imo it would be a hit build.
Keep the FM sound the same just add the big touch screen and all its same exact features and capabilities. I’d like to see it.
If only it was fully DX7 patch compatible. I bought a DX7 IID instead. The operator faders would have been nice to have but primarily I needed full compatibility.
Enlarging the synth was however an opportunity to add knobs, sliders and other direct controls .... and also to enlarge the screen. I always find Korg ito be out in left field ....
After seeing the opsix on bad gear I'm getting the little 37 key synth I'm sure I'll find one thing out of it that i like i do like the look of this one has that old vintage look
Does it come with a free magnifying glass?
Why is it so dang huge? Yes, I know it's a bigger keyboard but when it comes to the noise parts it's really not that much different than the original. I would have been happier if they'd have made a smaller desktop module - especially with a heavy metal case - and hooked it up to my (already large) keyboard controller. No room on my desk for this monster. Sounds nice tho.
8:08 lead sounds on FM are outstanding
wow. awesome
Actually there is a really good true to the original VST available from Korg to the original OPSIX - for as you can imagine a fraction of the cost. As far as the closest you could get in the market - I would like to put this up against a Yamaha MODX+ or Montage... I am basicing the build quality on your description so - I guess we are probably talking more like a Montage build less like a MODX+ (which is the plasticy cousin on the Montage - but still sounds really good). Just a thought
Yes Modx build is much more light weight
who need a monotimbral with 80 voices ??
Thanks Bo for the nice review! Informative as usual :)
Owning quite a few synths and also used to own the OG opsix and will get it back for sure...usually I also can somehow argue why sth. is ok to be that expensive....but for over 2k....i don't know.
I kindof understand KORG's move by making them three digital synths more premium to make money but just putting a little better keyboard on in does not do it for me. I also cannot understand the decision to put the knobs and all in the middle instead of the side. And for all the potential buyers: go somewhere to check out the faders because I didn't like the faders on the OG at all. they feel so cheap (which is ok for a 500€ synth).
I am curious how others justify such a purchase compared to what you can get nowadays. I mean for this money you could buy a new laptop, get the native Opsix and lets say a SY99 (which has a great keybed) and you'll get new school fm and old school fm for the same price....
Let's see how this will be selling. I surely skip this one.
A module would be waaaaay more needed imho (but would not bring the money, i understand).
My small Opsix unit arrives tomorrow. 😂
Wow!
The Oasys II will include Wavestate + Opsix + Modwave kernels
J'aimerais bien acquérir une fois un synthé korg mais pas uniquement un projet marketing
I can’t believe it!
A synth of that size and cost, powered by a wall wart. Was so close to wanting it.
Is your choice of synth sounds dependent on the alimentation circuit?
@@newignisYeah