Outstanding presentation! If I wouldn’t already own an Opsix, I would definitely have pulled the trigger after hearing that initial patch you created from the Koto original. What a brutal patch, man! You could create a whole sound design demo all around that single patch. Kudos to magic synth wizard Nick from Thailand 🇹🇭
40:25 Wish other preset makers did this! "Incomplete" sounds that demonstrate a capability of a synth as jumping off point are SOOO much more helpful than a bunch of pretty sounds you have to do the forensics on to figure out why they sound nice. Idk if that's just me, but I always feel more stifled by meticulously crafted presets than a base patch; what Korg did here is even better!
If this was offered in a module version I would buy it in a heartbeat. I love FM and this offers plenty of on-panel control that the DX7 designers could have only dreamed about in the Big '80's. As is, this is a solid effort by Korg.
I have my OpSix for around three weeks now and i'm blown away! I'm kinda sad, that you didn't mention the User Algorithm (Algo 41). You mentioned, that FM is unfamiliar to you, so i'd imagine demoing the user algo would be kinda hard for you. But if you really want to go nuts with FM synthesis, the user algorithm is, where the fun really begins, as you can freely route the operators to each other! In combination with the different operator modes, the possibilities are nearly endless.
Полагаю, многим для начала за глаза хватит возможностей 40 предустановленных алгоритмов. И это не говоря о том, будет ли что-то реально интересное в музыкальном плане, что потребует нового алгоритма или это будет просто новый звук ради нового звука.
@@gamma_noize "I think that for many people, to begin with, the capabilities of 40 pre-installed algorithms will be enough. And this is not to mention whether there will be something really interesting musically, which will require a new algorithm, or it will be just a new sound for the sake of a new sound."
@@2008LethalMelody Thanks to the translation of ewanstefani, i can answer. :) The 40 algorithms are very good for typical FM routings. For many people this may be more than enough. ^^ But as the OpSix can do extensive RM and Filter FM, which may need different routings to be effective. If you combine all these possibilities, you find, you'll need other routings as well, as the interactions vary widely. I also built some nice musical sounds with feedback loops, which aren't within the scope of the 40 predefined algorithms. Now with the 2.0 update you have even more possibilities with the comb filter and distortion effect operators. Those may need other routings as well. In general i can say, at least one third of my own sounds use the user algorithm. The user algorithm is a hugely powerful tool to get the most out of this synth.
Please post back up in these comments and let us know how well built it feels. Ive been reading/hearing users reporting that it feels cheap which is why Im hesitant to buy it, but they might say the same about my Roland SH-201 which I love.
@@AfterNothingsEnd Seriously? I ordered one too. I haven't received a notification though. I ordered mine the day the sale went active though. Hopefully mine isn't on backorder too.
@@JackstandJohnny The keyboard feels pretty cheap, but there's much worse out there. The knobs and sliders have a very solid, positive feel and it's a pleasure to work with. Being mostly plastic also means it's extremely portable, which I love.
Love me an FM synth with hands on fm controls on the front panel, plus the operator/carrier LEDs are very clever. Only complaint I can see is the small screen. But if I didn't have a montage I'd definitely scoop one of these up! Thanks for the review nick and company and happy holidays.
I used to really hate FM synth sounds but this machine started to make me love them. I never realised the Nautilus MOD7 was basically an OPsix, so I have been having some fun learning that lately. The user interface isn't quite as friendly but all the features are still there. This is just great. Eat that Yamaha!
6.SHIFT button This button lets you access extended functions for the knobs and buttons. Also, the current value of each parameter shown will be indicated on the display for a while after SHIFT is pressed. Double-click the SHIFT button to hold the SHIFT state. Press SHIFT again to cancel the hold.
Nice video and demonstration of the Opsix' capabilities. I had high hopes for this; I love the interface, but it's got that cold, harsh wavetable sound that reminds me of the Cobalt/Argon/Hydrasynth. It's grating to my ears for some reason, and no amount of reverb seems to soften the edge enough for me. Once I heard sound samples of this, at least that meant it was easy for me to go for the Digitone which sounds so much more smooth and creamy if you want it to, and even when you make it harsh, it sounds like analogue FM rather than digital. I don't know what exactly Elektron does differently to Korg, but it works for me. Anyway, I love how much attention Korg and the wavetable synths are getting as it heralds even more variation in synths, and we're definitely getting into the post-analogue revival phase where unashamedly digital synths show us how much more creative versatility there is to be had rather than repeating the same 50-year-old user interface paradigm. More FM synths, and, hopefully, more physical modelling too, now that affordable computing power is finally catching up with what is needed for innovation in that area as well.
For the same reasons people who are interested constantly tell everyone how interested they are! ... anyway, I'm very interested, and I want to tell everyone.
Right? I was looking at the Yamaha Modx to get a hardware synth whose operators can be more than just sine waves, thinking it would be the only option outside of software. Then Korg releases this and now I'm excited to eventually upgrade my Volca FM :) If they make a module that responds to aftertouch via MIDI I think I'll get that one.
Excellent video Nick - first demo I've heard which really gives some examples of the good rich sound that's possible with this synth. Subtle use of fx and modulations really make all the difference between quite clean and sterile and something more lively and warm. Thanks and Merry Xmas!
I'd be glad if they did but I suspect market demographics are not strong enough. The manufacturers seem to have divided the market into jammers or ten-finger players.
@@BigBadBonzo Korg already does/did! Minilogue xd and arp odyssey currrently, ms-2000r and ms20m in the past. Fingers crossed they've sold well so Korg gets inclined to module-ate(!) other models. From my experience and observations, one thing synth players always want is another synth, thus space becomes an issue, and there's usually something else around controlling them all. Keys BE GONE!
Super review as always. Just a note - you mentioned the modulation sequencing was introduced with the Minilogue but I believe the Radius had it as my "vintage" Korg R3 has it - called motion sequencing. I own the Yamaha FS1R along with several other Yamaha FM so I find the Opsix very intriguing but I sure wish there was a bit less menu diving. I would have rather the key bed space was used instead for more knobs and faders - plus a breath control input. I missed not hearing any of the classic brass patches which can be super responsive under breath. Cheers!
Interesting. 👍 Shimmer upon shimmer upon shimmer. 😍 I'll bet Korg could adopt that as a tagline in their sales brochures and move a lot of units based on that alone! 👽 My favorite part of the review, perversely, was at 2:32 where it really looked like Nick was giving those FM algorithms the finger. And given previous generations' attitude toward the difficulty of FM synthesis programming, who can blame him? 😂😂😂 Cheers. 👽
well done nick and well done korg! comparatively, you could buy every yamaha fm synth ever made and it would give you a fraction of the sound possibilities of this machine.
As an Opsix owner, the only major criticism I have of the instrument is the absolutely awful keybed it has been lumbered with. Other than that, it is an intuitive way of harnessing the power of FM and can deliver some incredible sounds.
Can't believe Korg actually managed to re-invent the wheel and make it better Wish it had a 61-key bed or hell 76-88 while we're at it, to complete it out of the box
The Opsix is the most interesting device I've seen from Korg in a long time. It's a huge step up from their usual designs, both in terms of power and user interface.
Totally agree think the wavestate is a phenomenal synth for the money. I can see it's a love it or hate it kind of thing though. I think korg are doing a great job at the moment, hitting all the price points from the volcas, mid range synths like this, the wavestate and the minilogue xd, through to the premium products such as the prologue. The minilogue xd, wavestate and opsix make a very desirable trinity of synths.
What I like about the Opsix is similar to why I love the Minilogue xd. I tried the Opsix today and I didn't expect to like it as much as I did. To me, they're interesting takes on common concepts that sets them apart.
I agree. But in which way - 4U like Minilogue XD or 3U + more menu diving like the Modal approach? Oh and 61 keys with Aftertouch for those who can benefit from it.
@@spintonik If we need to chooose between 4U and 3U then 4U definitely. FM has always been loaded with menu diving (or at least difficult to oversee what is happening), so we want to get/gain as much overview as possible. But I already would be happy if they made a desktop module just by leaving the keyboard out. A space saver we can address with a larger Midi controller.
Thanks for this Nick! Awesome sounds hidden in this synth. Ive been considering a Modx6 for quite some time (as much for the acoustic sounds/EPs as the FM explorations) but Im fascinated at how wild this seems it can get! Also, great to see the folder of Tim Conrardy sounds in the software - he wont be forgotten! Thanks Nick - Happy Christmas to you and the entire team!
@@coltoncorley4343 Hi Colton - still saving up for the ModX6 - there is a 2nd hand 7 locally and Im MIGHTY tempted :-) But you know yourself - If an OPSIX comes up for a good price before Ive finished saving... well I'd go for it :-)
I'm so glad to hear that they actually have a way to access favorite patches. I'll admit that I'm a Roland fanboy. It drives me crazy that none of their grooveboxes and drum machines have this. Sure. Let's put 3 or 4 thousand presets in there but no system to quickly access the presets you love and use the most.
I didn’t see anyone else comment this, the original DX7 was 12 bit, mk II was 16 bit. Not 8 and 12 bit. Great demo, I might get one of these even though I have an original DX7.
The DX7 is back full circle. The first polyphonic digital synthesizer that all keyboardists at the time had to own. Before that it was the Prophet 5. But the DX7 was a keyboard that sounded like an electric piano, without the heavy weight, and not just analog oscillators. I remember that time and how cool that transition was. It's very nostalgic and enjoyable to see these original synths rebirthed and made again for the next generation to enjoy.
yes...👍🏽 exciting time when the dx-7 first came out. I used to go to the music store in town all the time to play it! couldn't afford tho... : ( The keyboard action was phenomenal. & the way it responds to subtle velocity changes.. Very expressive. Something appealing to me. I remember many JP8, Oberheim & Minimoogs FS in local paper around $200-$500. People dumping that now obsolete gear to be a part of the digital future! 😂
Great run through as always Nick thanks! Appreciate you looking at how it goes for tx81z stuff, as I’m personally seeing this as a potential for replacing my 4-op synths ( rather than for Dx7) good effort on the solid bass😁. As you said it’s software so ?maybe Korg could look at including some basic waveforms closer to the tx in future?..Regardless its a great improvement on classic FM well done to Korg!
I do feel the SY99 was the pinnacle of Yamaha FM. Why? simple, it wasn't DSP, it was a series of dedicated digital chips all performing tasks. A chip for the FX, a chip for the filters and so on. That way each chip can be highly optimised for what it is doing. On a DSP it's a shared pool of resources and a single sample rate, which is why many feel the FS1R sounds rough. I don't think DSP algorithms sound as good, hence why many synths have started using FPGA instead, building a synth using an FPGA takes synths back to days where there were dedicated digital circuits for each stage of the engine.
@@6581punk Thanks for your comments there! Yep, had the FS1R (very excited at the time, very expensive secondhand too....), yet only kept it for a few weeks as, i. didn't have 'that' 80's sound, ii. Bar Steward to programme!, just no time for that 😂). Every time I fire up the SY's, it's a total joy ..... and instantly takes 30 years off my life, so bonus there!! 😎🤙
I’ve been very impressed by Korg's filter emulations in the last few years. I couldn’t tell the difference between my Sub37 filter and the electribe Moog emulation.
Having owned and sold an Electribei... i can say it sounded great but suffered from my lack of other gear to sequence it with.. and generally a shitty user Intrrface but now I have some more sequencing equipment I might like to pick one up again just for the sound
@@nataliehession8695 I think they got a lot right on the electribe 2, but they also got loads wrong and just gave up on the firmware after a very short time. I enjoyed the time I spent using it though.
Yeah the E2 sounds great and it’s easy to get a very nice mix going. If only the sequencer wasn’t so painful to use and it had a not-crazy chromatic keyboard layout option...
I hope that Korg comes out with a dual timbre update. The possibilities of layering and panning two complete different voices would really bring this great keyboard into the next level.
With the Wavestate SE being announced (61 keyboard, aftertouch, Metal instead of plastic, etc), I feel like an Opsix SE would be a no brainer, especially if it offered multitimbrality, aftertouch and more features.
I guess the problem with all those FX and filters is you never really have to understand how FM works. You can just make a basic tone and then fatten it up with FX and add filter sweeps. Almost like using a subtractive synth.
Yes I agree to some extent, it's like, cool to have all those extra functions, but you sort of lose the FM soul of the machine as it blurs the lines with between FM and virtual analog. This means that sometimes when you operate it, it becomes unclear what kind of synthesis you're applying at that particular moment. On the other hand, with the technology being so advanced these days, why limit it to 'just' FM sine waves and additive synthesis when you can add much more.
@@VuorensolaR It's not a problem :) at the end of the day you buy something to make sounds you like. Another example, i'd say that I found the Deepmind 12 to have a pretty weak synthesis engine and it was all about the FX, hence why the presets are all drowned in FX (and ultimately why I sold mine). But what I'm saying is FM has quite a huge potential, but strengths and weaknesses as well. It helps to get the basic tone right and then polish it, not make the sound good with FX. You can make a sound quite difficult to put into a mix with huge FX.
I so want to learn to do FM synthesis. I understand the basic idea behind it and I have several iOS FM synthesizer apps but every time I try to do anything I end up lost and it ends up sounding like garbage. I haven’t been able to make that intuitive leap like I did relatively easily with subtractive synthesis. If anyone has any suggestions or knows where I can find a good tutorial let me know. I am so tempted to get the OpSix but I’m afraid I’ll just end up with a relatively expensive paper weight.
Korg discontinued this synth. Could be because of the LCD screen issues or other issues, but also they came out with a VST computer version. Is it due to chip shortages? Maybe they will come out with an improved version with a bigger keyboard. Hopefully Korg will make this a multitimbral synth with aftertouch and the ability to have more range instead of 3 octaves too. I may as well get a Juster X or Juno X. Aren't they multimbral with the Juno able to do 5 parts? What's the initiative to buy the OP Six? Plus VSTs and a computer are limitless. I hate working in computer but not that Cherry Audio came out with the CGX and CS80 VST, and the new Drone VST you did a video of very recently with that guy Alex playing in a theater to make all kinds of drone sound for 189 pins, I don't see the attraction to buying this small plastic keyboard. Yeah, it's fun for noodling on a keyboard, which is what I prefer, but the discontinuing by org gives me pause and the resale value going up on sites like Reverb make this a ridiculous choice now. Korg needs to stop doing these smaller keyboards and stick to bigger keyboards and the options for a desktop version. This OP-Six would be perfect as a rack/desktop version.
@@sonicstate From all of the research I did the Opsix has been discontinued. I Installed the free Cakewalk DAW and it comes up in the instrument choices. Already a free VST? I bought the Modwave and Wavestate with a mild curiosity for the Opsix and only found used models for only a small reduction in price. I was messing around in Cakewalk and "boom" up pops the Opsix. I really couldn't believe it. Also stunning is it sounds as robust as the Modwave and Wavestate. I hope Korg fixes the screen issue (Which happened to my Modwave, I had to return it). I still may purchase an Opsix when I have the means to again. Great demo as always. I love Sonicstate.
Quite possible the most appealing synth (to me) in the past few years. I do wish aftertouch and more elaborate envelopes were available, but for people who understand and like FM, there is an awful lot on offer here
@@roberttodd2414 Because the Opsix is more powerful and has a wider palette of timbre, even with the "limitations" I mentioned. Just look at the specs -- the Opsix goes far beyond the capabilities of the DX7. It's not up for debate, it is just objectively more capable. If you have a nostalgia for the DX7, suit yourself, that doesn't change the fact the Opsix is the more powerful and flexible synthesizer.
@@AnonymousUser-bp9no it's also more poorly built and doesn't sound as nice. But hey native instruments FM8 vst has been more 'capable' than a dx7 since like 2003, and your point is? In fact yamaha themselves have put out a tonne of hardware themselves since the dx7 that is much more capable than that or this particular piece of hardware. I don't see your point really...
Because in 1987/88 Yamaha bailed out Korg and the DS8 spawned, could this be a window into the next Yamaha developments? Will the Montage successor have this (and onboard sampling)? When is the right time to spend your money on this 5h1t? When will Behringer make a DX1 clone? Why is nobody making CASIO CZ clones (yet)? Can a company make a single synth with every type of synthesis that has passed? Would that be bad business or would it drive innovation? So many questions.
What a pity that Korg didn't make the Minilogue XD in this format... the Prologue is too big and too expensive. Just imagine, the Minilogue, the WaveState and the OpSix together, what a combo!
Opsix. As far as i remember, reface dx has no other waveforms than sine. This really makes a difference. And no, I’m not talking about waveforms for the lfo. Opsix even has width of the waveform. Only judging from the FM capabilities Opsix all the way . Hint: read the manual before you buy.
Nick definitely has a default sound he gravitates to. It’s kind of a dreamy mellowness. He even gets it out of this harsh FM environment. I can kind of like it.
The opsix gravitates toward dreamy mellowness, or at least my brain and everyone I've showed the synth to defaults to it. The synth can do WAY more than that but it sounds so fucking good in that dreamy mellowness space. Feels like it has a warmth I haven't heard often in FM
6:06 You're defining why FM had to wait for digital to be possible. Analogue synths didn't have the stability in the oscillators to do FM well. Later on DCOs would be stable enough of course. But the DX appeared in the early 80s before DCOs were common.
I almost bought one in time for xmas, I got the Novation AFX Station instead but will be getting one of these in January I love it and is different to everything else I have.
@@amosluyk I wouldn’t say it’s copying. Arriving at the same logical conclusion for a UI is exactly that, logical. Korg has been in the game way longer than Elektron and they also created the parameter locking type paradigm in tandem with Elektron dong theirs.
@@kennymester screen layout, knob layout... I reckon most people would say that's copying! Not that I care much, except that UI design is an area where companies can show their chops as designers, and often fail to do so. Doesn't matter how long you've been in the game, a copy is a copy, even if its not a patent violation. I'd personally like to see the giants of synthesis spending more time energy and creatvity on the UI design of hardware synths... after all, that's really the only reason to buy one! :) Have a most excellent Xmas!
What is that spectrum analyzer thingy onscreen in the background? I was thinking to get my daughter this synth, and it might be neat to have her see the frequencies generated while playing, to understand sound better.
Dear KORG, not many people have garages available to put desk, PC, master keyboard controllers, monitor speakers, audio interfaces, mixers and all your wonderful synths in. Please make them in module format! If they were in module format, I surely would buy Modwave, Wavestate and this one all in a bundle, because they all are great, but I don't have any more space in my room! We are in the Home Studio Age. Let those huge and gorgeous mega synthesizers for the pros. We ordinary people need compact size hardware, and surely we don't need to have 8 or 10 keybeds, we already have decent keyboard controllers, maybe even with poly AT. Otherwise we have to rely on software plugins only and that would be a pity...
I’m looking for very musical sounds suited for House chord stabs mainly, some pads and leads as well. Could this be the best option between the three Korg models?
Maybe there will be a new Volca fm or desktop module coming?... I would definitely buy one. I got too many keyboards in my studio and not enough room. Thanks Nick!
Outstanding presentation! If I wouldn’t already own an Opsix, I would definitely have pulled the trigger after hearing that initial patch you created from the Koto original. What a brutal patch, man! You could create a whole sound design demo all around that single patch. Kudos to magic synth wizard Nick from Thailand 🇹🇭
40:25
Wish other preset makers did this! "Incomplete" sounds that demonstrate a capability of a synth as jumping off point are SOOO much more helpful than a bunch of pretty sounds you have to do the forensics on to figure out why they sound nice.
Idk if that's just me, but I always feel more stifled by meticulously crafted presets than a base patch; what Korg did here is even better!
It's a smart idea. A lot of my Hydrasynth patches are demonstrations to myself so that I remember it can do this or that.
oh wow I absolutely agree! extremely useful
@@ezassegai4793 excuse me, but wtf's up with that profile pic my dude?
@@trannusaran6164 what about it?
@@ezassegai4793 If you love synths, but have a problem with gay people, I have some bad news for you...
Wow I love how fm synths can have hard digital aggressive leads and then lush pads and choir sounds that don't sound digital at all
Wow..you sold the OPSIX to me over and over in this review. Superb !
If this was offered in a module version I would buy it in a heartbeat. I love FM and this offers plenty of on-panel control that the DX7 designers could have only dreamed about in the Big '80's. As is, this is a solid effort by Korg.
Can you explain the difference between module and FM ? Thanks 🙏🏼
@@BrendanWhelan he means a desktop module without a keyboard
yeah, me too. i have enough keyboards but minimal space. i always hate to see a new synth with no desktop version coming out. oh well...
Wonder if anyones tried looping off the keyboard lol
Pretty sure there is one now
I have my OpSix for around three weeks now and i'm blown away!
I'm kinda sad, that you didn't mention the User Algorithm (Algo 41).
You mentioned, that FM is unfamiliar to you, so i'd imagine demoing the user algo would be kinda hard for you.
But if you really want to go nuts with FM synthesis, the user algorithm is, where the fun really begins, as you can freely route the operators to each other! In combination with the different operator modes, the possibilities are nearly endless.
Полагаю, многим для начала за глаза хватит возможностей 40 предустановленных алгоритмов. И это не говоря о том, будет ли что-то реально интересное в музыкальном плане, что потребует нового алгоритма или это будет просто новый звук ради нового звука.
@@2008LethalMelody Eh... What?! Can't read that. ^^
@@gamma_noize "I think that for many people, to begin with, the capabilities of 40 pre-installed algorithms will be enough. And this is not to mention whether there will be something really interesting musically, which will require a new algorithm, or it will be just a new sound for the sake of a new sound."
@@ewanstefani Thanks for the translation. :)
@@2008LethalMelody
Thanks to the translation of ewanstefani, i can answer. :)
The 40 algorithms are very good for typical FM routings. For many people this may be more than enough. ^^
But as the OpSix can do extensive RM and Filter FM, which may need different routings to be effective. If you combine all these possibilities, you find, you'll need other routings as well, as the interactions vary widely.
I also built some nice musical sounds with feedback loops, which aren't within the scope of the 40 predefined algorithms.
Now with the 2.0 update you have even more possibilities with the comb filter and distortion effect operators. Those may need other routings as well.
In general i can say, at least one third of my own sounds use the user algorithm.
The user algorithm is a hugely powerful tool to get the most out of this synth.
Great video! Thanks! Just picked mine up. Korg has a sale for $329 US right now.
Please post back up in these comments and let us know how well built it feels. Ive been reading/hearing users reporting that it feels cheap which is why Im hesitant to buy it, but they might say the same about my Roland SH-201 which I love.
@@JackstandJohnny just got a notice that my item is on back order now. Won’t be shipping until September.
@@AfterNothingsEnd Seriously? I ordered one too. I haven't received a notification though. I ordered mine the day the sale went active though. Hopefully mine isn't on backorder too.
@@JackstandJohnny The keyboard feels pretty cheap, but there's much worse out there. The knobs and sliders have a very solid, positive feel and it's a pleasure to work with. Being mostly plastic also means it's extremely portable, which I love.
Been watching a bunch of opsix videos this past week and this review is stellar! thank you 🙏
Love me an FM synth with hands on fm controls on the front panel, plus the operator/carrier LEDs are very clever. Only complaint I can see is the small screen. But if I didn't have a montage I'd definitely scoop one of these up! Thanks for the review nick and company and happy holidays.
I used to really hate FM synth sounds but this machine started to make me love them. I never realised the Nautilus MOD7 was basically an OPsix, so I have been having some fun learning that lately. The user interface isn't quite as friendly but all the features are still there. This is just great. Eat that Yamaha!
6.SHIFT button This button lets you access extended functions for the knobs and buttons. Also, the current value of each parameter shown will be indicated on the display for a while after SHIFT is pressed. Double-click the SHIFT button to hold the SHIFT state. Press SHIFT again to cancel the hold.
Everything Nick demos I want to buy 🤣🤣
Me first!
nah
Yep, you and me both.
Nice video and demonstration of the Opsix' capabilities. I had high hopes for this; I love the interface, but it's got that cold, harsh wavetable sound that reminds me of the Cobalt/Argon/Hydrasynth. It's grating to my ears for some reason, and no amount of reverb seems to soften the edge enough for me. Once I heard sound samples of this, at least that meant it was easy for me to go for the Digitone which sounds so much more smooth and creamy if you want it to, and even when you make it harsh, it sounds like analogue FM rather than digital. I don't know what exactly Elektron does differently to Korg, but it works for me.
Anyway, I love how much attention Korg and the wavetable synths are getting as it heralds even more variation in synths, and we're definitely getting into the post-analogue revival phase where unashamedly digital synths show us how much more creative versatility there is to be had rather than repeating the same 50-year-old user interface paradigm. More FM synths, and, hopefully, more physical modelling too, now that affordable computing power is finally catching up with what is needed for innovation in that area as well.
Why do people who are uninterested constantly tell everyone how uninterested they are? ... anyway, nice demo, as always, Nick!
For the same reasons people who are interested constantly tell everyone how interested they are! ... anyway, I'm very interested, and I want to tell everyone.
mein brudren
God, such an impressive synth. Korg just gets better and better at their craft.
Right? I was looking at the Yamaha Modx to get a hardware synth whose operators can be more than just sine waves, thinking it would be the only option outside of software. Then Korg releases this and now I'm excited to eventually upgrade my Volca FM :) If they make a module that responds to aftertouch via MIDI I think I'll get that one.
Excellent video Nick - first demo I've heard which really gives some examples of the good rich sound that's possible with this synth. Subtle use of fx and modulations really make all the difference between quite clean and sterile and something more lively and warm. Thanks and Merry Xmas!
Put it out as a key-less module, and I'm sold.
Agreed. If Modal can do it surely Korg can too?
I'd be glad if they did but I suspect market demographics are not strong enough. The manufacturers seem to have divided the market into jammers or ten-finger players.
@@BigBadBonzo Modal is likely more willing to cater to customers because they aren't a huge operation with tons of products like Korg, Roland, etc.
@@BigBadBonzo Korg already does/did! Minilogue xd and arp odyssey currrently, ms-2000r and ms20m in the past. Fingers crossed they've sold well so Korg gets inclined to module-ate(!) other models. From my experience and observations, one thing synth players always want is another synth, thus space becomes an issue, and there's usually something else around controlling them all. Keys BE GONE!
Excellent vid. Great synth. My next purchase..Big thanks for this one..
Super review as always. Just a note - you mentioned the modulation sequencing was introduced with the Minilogue but I believe the Radius had it as my "vintage" Korg R3 has it - called motion sequencing. I own the Yamaha FS1R along with several other Yamaha FM so I find the Opsix very intriguing but I sure wish there was a bit less menu diving. I would have rather the key bed space was used instead for more knobs and faders - plus a breath control input. I missed not hearing any of the classic brass patches which can be super responsive under breath. Cheers!
Interesting. 👍 Shimmer upon shimmer upon shimmer. 😍 I'll bet Korg could adopt that as a tagline in their sales brochures and move a lot of units based on that alone! 👽 My favorite part of the review, perversely, was at 2:32 where it really looked like Nick was giving those FM algorithms the finger. And given previous generations' attitude toward the difficulty of FM synthesis programming, who can blame him? 😂😂😂 Cheers. 👽
Great demo, great FM synth. Happy OPsiXmas!
well done nick and well done korg! comparatively, you could buy every yamaha fm synth ever made and it would give you a fraction of the sound possibilities of this machine.
10:20 This is an amazing patch. Like insta soundtrack. It sounds digital and analog at this same time at the perfect ratio.
It's capable of a much thicker sound than I anticipated.
As an Opsix owner, the only major criticism I have of the instrument is the absolutely awful keybed it has been lumbered with. Other than that, it is an intuitive way of harnessing the power of FM and can deliver some incredible sounds.
Can't believe Korg actually managed to re-invent the wheel and make it better
Wish it had a 61-key bed or hell 76-88 while we're at it, to complete it out of the box
Aside from their flagship workstations, much of what Korg manufactures these days is designed to last
about as long as your average smartphone.
The Opsix is the most interesting device I've seen from Korg in a long time. It's a huge step up from their usual designs, both in terms of power and user interface.
Well, I wouldn't exclude the Wavestate from that, which I find better for smoother/more ethereal sounds. Both are excellent
Totally agree think the wavestate is a phenomenal synth for the money. I can see it's a love it or hate it kind of thing though. I think korg are doing a great job at the moment, hitting all the price points from the volcas, mid range synths like this, the wavestate and the minilogue xd, through to the premium products such as the prologue. The minilogue xd, wavestate and opsix make a very desirable trinity of synths.
What I like about the Opsix is similar to why I love the Minilogue xd. I tried the Opsix today and I didn't expect to like it as much as I did. To me, they're interesting takes on common concepts that sets them apart.
wow that sounds ethereally amazing, imo
first time in _forever_ i want to buy a new synth
Hopefully Korg comes out with a module version soon.
I am still waiting for the Wavestate module.....
@@Wasserspeier07 We all are.
I agree. But in which way - 4U like Minilogue XD or 3U + more menu diving like the Modal approach?
Oh and 61 keys with Aftertouch for those who can benefit from it.
@@spintonik If we need to chooose between 4U and 3U then 4U definitely. FM has always been loaded with menu diving (or at least difficult to oversee what is happening), so we want to get/gain as much overview as possible. But I already would be happy if they made a desktop module just by leaving the keyboard out. A space saver we can address with a larger Midi controller.
Agree! Would like a desktop. Would fit in perfectly with the Argon8 and Cobalt8.
Good review. Disappointing they didn't give us the versatile DX7 envelopes instead of ADSR. It's not like they don't know how - the Volca FM has them!
10:20 Ooo!! PolySix filter. Is that maybe a hint that a PolySix reissue is on the way? Would be really nice.
They added that filter to the earlier Wavestate as well.
Thanks for this Nick! Awesome sounds hidden in this synth. Ive been considering a Modx6 for quite some time (as much for the acoustic sounds/EPs as the FM explorations) but Im fascinated at how wild this seems it can get! Also, great to see the folder of Tim Conrardy sounds in the software - he wont be forgotten! Thanks Nick - Happy Christmas to you and the entire team!
Im right there with you... what did you end up choosing? I feel like the Mod6 makes more sense for my purpose but this thing sounds great!
@@coltoncorley4343 Hi Colton - still saving up for the ModX6 - there is a 2nd hand 7 locally and Im MIGHTY tempted :-) But you know yourself - If an OPSIX comes up for a good price before Ive finished saving... well I'd go for it :-)
I'm so glad to hear that they actually have a way to access favorite patches. I'll admit that I'm a Roland fanboy. It drives me crazy that none of their grooveboxes and drum machines have this. Sure. Let's put 3 or 4 thousand presets in there but no system to quickly access the presets you love and use the most.
The JD-X's store favorites though.
Excellent review. I love the various sounds. Keep up the good work.
I didn’t see anyone else comment this, the original DX7 was 12 bit, mk II was 16 bit. Not 8 and 12 bit. Great demo, I might get one of these even though I have an original DX7.
The DX7 is back full circle. The first polyphonic digital synthesizer that all keyboardists at the time had to own. Before that it was the Prophet 5. But the DX7 was a keyboard that sounded like an electric piano, without the heavy weight, and not just analog oscillators. I remember that time and how cool that transition was. It's very nostalgic and enjoyable to see these original synths rebirthed and made again for the next generation to enjoy.
yes...👍🏽 exciting time when the dx-7 first came out.
I used to go to the music store in town all the time to play it!
couldn't afford tho... : (
The keyboard action was phenomenal.
& the way it responds to subtle velocity changes..
Very expressive. Something appealing to me.
I remember many JP8, Oberheim & Minimoogs FS in local paper
around $200-$500. People dumping that now obsolete gear
to be a part of the digital future! 😂
Thanks as always Nick. Sequencer and keyboard aside, Opsix or Digitone?
Hope to see this as a module, because it deserves a bigger keyboard and I already have one.
Great run through as always Nick thanks! Appreciate you looking at how it goes for tx81z stuff, as I’m personally seeing this as a potential for replacing my 4-op synths ( rather than for Dx7) good effort on the solid bass😁. As you said it’s software so ?maybe Korg could look at including some basic waveforms closer to the tx in future?..Regardless its a great improvement on classic FM well done to Korg!
Been on pre-order since announcement. Can hardly wait to actually sound design with this. Thanks for the review ...It was such a tease lol
Thanks Nick. Interesting offering from Korg, though think I'll stick to my SY77/99's & MODX6 🎅👍🍻
I do feel the SY99 was the pinnacle of Yamaha FM. Why? simple, it wasn't DSP, it was a series of dedicated digital chips all performing tasks. A chip for the FX, a chip for the filters and so on. That way each chip can be highly optimised for what it is doing. On a DSP it's a shared pool of resources and a single sample rate, which is why many feel the FS1R sounds rough.
I don't think DSP algorithms sound as good, hence why many synths have started using FPGA instead, building a synth using an FPGA takes synths back to days where there were dedicated digital circuits for each stage of the engine.
@@6581punk Thanks for your comments there! Yep, had the FS1R (very excited at the time, very expensive secondhand too....), yet only kept it for a few weeks as, i. didn't have 'that' 80's sound, ii. Bar Steward to programme!, just no time for that 😂). Every time I fire up the SY's, it's a total joy ..... and instantly takes 30 years off my life, so bonus there!! 😎🤙
(the audio eng) - Aha, so i can buy this, and get all your keybs in one? hm, interesting
This review makes a GREAT case for OPSIX NATIVE (so much more to SEE there).
I’ve been very impressed by Korg's filter emulations in the last few years. I couldn’t tell the difference between my Sub37 filter and the electribe Moog emulation.
Having owned and sold an Electribei... i can say it sounded great but suffered from my lack of other gear to sequence it with.. and generally a shitty user Intrrface but now I have some more sequencing equipment I might like to pick one up again just for the sound
@@nataliehession8695 I think they got a lot right on the electribe 2, but they also got loads wrong and just gave up on the firmware after a very short time. I enjoyed the time I spent using it though.
Yeah the E2 sounds great and it’s easy to get a very nice mix going. If only the sequencer wasn’t so painful to use and it had a not-crazy chromatic keyboard layout option...
Same with the KingKorg, quite useable filter emulations in that one (Moog, Prophet, Oberheim, MS20 styles)
@@newignis pretty sure the electribe had the same engine as the King Korg.
Have a nice Christmas Nick🙂🙂🎄
I hope that Korg comes out with a dual timbre update. The possibilities of layering and panning two complete different voices would really bring this great keyboard into the next level.
You can cheat bitimbral by controlling the keyboard responsiveness for different operators.
@@Maxrexl that’s a great feature, but it still means halving the power. True multitimbrality means having twice the power. :-)
Excellent review Nick. Was looking at buying a classic dx7 this year. I am now tempted by this as an alternative option.
Bizzarely, the Dx7 plugged into this would be nice, the DX Keybed controlling this would be good
@@sonicstatemmmm... now there's a thought.🤔
The wife will kill me though😅
Hey Nick, your self programmed patches sound beautiful. If I would ever build a Synth, I would hire you to programme the factory presets.
thanks, I thinkg if you wanted a bank of reverby and gnarly stuff then I might be your guy :-)
SRA Shimmer Reverb Anonymous, twelve-step group meetings at St. Lexicon’s Cathedral every Friday after fun.
But you have to admit you are powerless over shimmer reverb. 😂 That's not something we will ever admit, by the way. 😂 👽
well played
*paf* *paf* *paf* *paf* funny dude
Hahaha brilliant!
My unofficial group meetings happen every sunday.... at the bar.
Great review, Nick. I do agree with you proposals for a future firmware update. Let’s hope Korg listens in.
If the iridium didn’t already have 6 operator fm I’d be all over it. Though Waldorfs is not nearly as seemingly immediate and fun to use.
It's lovely, but would have so loved it more with a 5 octave keyboard.
We all would, or a module version.
@@Jason75913 no thanks not today
@@resonatorneuronium5324 ???
With the Wavestate SE being announced (61 keyboard, aftertouch, Metal instead of plastic, etc), I feel like an Opsix SE would be a no brainer, especially if it offered multitimbrality, aftertouch and more features.
idea; FM synth with operator mixer and 'comprehensive' ANALOG sub bass part, that can be set so that it intertwines with the modulations of the synth.
I guess the problem with all those FX and filters is you never really have to understand how FM works. You can just make a basic tone and then fatten it up with FX and add filter sweeps. Almost like using a subtractive synth.
The best of both worlds!
Whose problem is it, then? Yours? :-D
Yes I agree to some extent, it's like, cool to have all those extra functions, but you sort of lose the FM soul of the machine as it blurs the lines with between FM and virtual analog. This means that sometimes when you operate it, it becomes unclear what kind of synthesis you're applying at that particular moment. On the other hand, with the technology being so advanced these days, why limit it to 'just' FM sine waves and additive synthesis when you can add much more.
@@VuorensolaR It's not a problem :) at the end of the day you buy something to make sounds you like. Another example, i'd say that I found the Deepmind 12 to have a pretty weak synthesis engine and it was all about the FX, hence why the presets are all drowned in FX (and ultimately why I sold mine).
But what I'm saying is FM has quite a huge potential, but strengths and weaknesses as well. It helps to get the basic tone right and then polish it, not make the sound good with FX. You can make a sound quite difficult to put into a mix with huge FX.
@@6581punk Agree on that, was just trying to be cheeky, sorry bout that! :-)
Oooo, that sound at 8:40 is so lovely!
In a 'geek off' the guys at SonicLabs will always win hands down. Great stuff. Thank you!
I really really really want this keyboard.. hopefully I can get some money up and I can get this in 2021 👍🏽
Same here bro let’s get this money
Thanks - this has been super informative and really helped me decide. I think this will be my next gear purchase.
Well done review. Thank you.
ps. I think this is the first time someone mentioned sienfeld in a synth show.
Another great review. Thank you Nick!
Reface DX has left the chat.
At that price point it wasn't in the same chatroom.
the reface is more of a modern dx100/dx21 this is a proper dx7 spiritual successor imo
That thing is a meme versus Opsix and Volca FM
I so want to learn to do FM synthesis. I understand the basic idea behind it and I have several iOS FM synthesizer apps but every time I try to do anything I end up lost and it ends up sounding like garbage. I haven’t been able to make that intuitive leap like I did relatively easily with subtractive synthesis. If anyone has any suggestions or knows where I can find a good tutorial let me know. I am so tempted to get the OpSix but I’m afraid I’ll just end up with a relatively expensive paper weight.
Nick - always great taste - really nice demo
Loop on the envelope would help a lot. Maybe KORG can added with future update ?
Korg discontinued this synth. Could be because of the LCD screen issues or other issues, but also they came out with a VST computer version. Is it due to chip shortages? Maybe they will come out with an improved version with a bigger keyboard. Hopefully Korg will make this a multitimbral synth with aftertouch and the ability to have more range instead of 3 octaves too. I may as well get a Juster X or Juno X. Aren't they multimbral with the Juno able to do 5 parts? What's the initiative to buy the OP Six? Plus VSTs and a computer are limitless. I hate working in computer but not that Cherry Audio came out with the CGX and CS80 VST, and the new Drone VST you did a video of very recently with that guy Alex playing in a theater to make all kinds of drone sound for 189 pins, I don't see the attraction to buying this small plastic keyboard. Yeah, it's fun for noodling on a keyboard, which is what I prefer, but the discontinuing by org gives me pause and the resale value going up on sites like Reverb make this a ridiculous choice now. Korg needs to stop doing these smaller keyboards and stick to bigger keyboards and the options for a desktop version. This OP-Six would be perfect as a rack/desktop version.
I'm not sure it is discontinued. They did do a couple of sales though. Absolute bargain at those prices
@@sonicstate From all of the research I did the Opsix has been discontinued. I Installed the free Cakewalk DAW and it comes up in the instrument choices. Already a free VST? I bought the Modwave and Wavestate with a mild curiosity for the Opsix and only found used models for only a small reduction in price. I was messing around in Cakewalk and "boom" up pops the Opsix. I really couldn't believe it. Also stunning is it sounds as robust as the Modwave and Wavestate. I hope Korg fixes the screen issue (Which happened to my Modwave, I had to return it). I still may purchase an Opsix when I have the means to again. Great demo as always. I love Sonicstate.
Quite possible the most appealing synth (to me) in the past few years. I do wish aftertouch and more elaborate envelopes were available, but for people who understand and like FM, there is an awful lot on offer here
Do you know if it responds to channel or poly aftertouch via MIDI?
ifmyou understand FM then what on earth would you want this over a real DX5 or DX7 for?
@@roberttodd2414 Because the Opsix is more powerful and has a wider palette of timbre, even with the "limitations" I mentioned. Just look at the specs -- the Opsix goes far beyond the capabilities of the DX7. It's not up for debate, it is just objectively more capable. If you have a nostalgia for the DX7, suit yourself, that doesn't change the fact the Opsix is the more powerful and flexible synthesizer.
@@AnonymousUser-bp9no it's also more poorly built and doesn't sound as nice. But hey native instruments FM8 vst has been more 'capable' than a dx7 since like 2003, and your point is? In fact yamaha themselves have put out a tonne of hardware themselves since the dx7 that is much more capable than that or this particular piece of hardware. I don't see your point really...
@@roberttodd2414 Yawn, whatever suits you. Zero interest in arguing tastes. If you prefer the dx7, get that, I have no dog in the race.
Because in 1987/88 Yamaha bailed out Korg and the DS8 spawned, could this be a window into the next Yamaha developments? Will the Montage successor have this (and onboard sampling)? When is the right time to spend your money on this 5h1t? When will Behringer make a DX1 clone? Why is nobody making CASIO CZ clones (yet)? Can a company make a single synth with every type of synthesis that has passed? Would that be bad business or would it drive innovation? So many questions.
What a pity that Korg didn't make the Minilogue XD in this format... the Prologue is too big and too expensive. Just imagine, the Minilogue, the WaveState and the OpSix together, what a combo!
Yup , I find Korg miss red the market these days. people want small compact gear .
not huge space hogging keyboards.
That opening sound is the start of every Diva ballad from 1984 until about 1994
That Poly Sweep patch!!!!! Beautiful
Beautiful patches. Very usable.
Would you choose the Yamaha reface dx or the korg opsix?
Opsix. As far as i remember, reface dx has no other waveforms than sine. This really makes a difference. And no, I’m not talking about waveforms for the lfo.
Opsix even has width of the waveform.
Only judging from the FM capabilities Opsix all the way .
Hint: read the manual before you buy.
Nick definitely has a default sound he gravitates to. It’s kind of a dreamy mellowness. He even gets it out of this harsh FM environment. I can kind of like it.
The opsix gravitates toward dreamy mellowness, or at least my brain and everyone I've showed the synth to defaults to it. The synth can do WAY more than that but it sounds so fucking good in that dreamy mellowness space. Feels like it has a warmth I haven't heard often in FM
I remember the first demo evening of the DX7 40years ago.
Me too. Same for Roland Juno 106, which I ended up getting and the D-50 later on.
That koto patch is unreal
Sounds like something straight off an OPN album
literally same thought
A very interesting synth and a nice review.
The final patch! Bless you Nick.
19:48 is pure brown noise. Love it.
6:06 You're defining why FM had to wait for digital to be possible. Analogue synths didn't have the stability in the oscillators to do FM well. Later on DCOs would be stable enough of course. But the DX appeared in the early 80s before DCOs were common.
I will probably get it in the future. And as well as with any instrument it will take time to not only understand the tech but also how to use it.
Took me awhile to find this channel again had to create a New RUclips channel. 🔥🔥🔥
that altered koto patch gives me shivers
I almost bought one in time for xmas, I got the Novation AFX Station instead but will be getting one of these in January I love it and is different to everything else I have.
The display and data entry knob layout is a bit elektron, isn’t it?
I noticed that as well. It's nearly 1:1 with the Elektron layout.
Ripping off other companies is the new cool... ask Behringer ;)
@@amosluyk I wouldn’t say it’s copying. Arriving at the same logical conclusion for a UI is exactly that, logical. Korg has been in the game way longer than Elektron and they also created the parameter locking type paradigm in tandem with Elektron dong theirs.
@@kennymester screen layout, knob layout... I reckon most people would say that's copying! Not that I care much, except that UI design is an area where companies can show their chops as designers, and often fail to do so. Doesn't matter how long you've been in the game, a copy is a copy, even if its not a patent violation. I'd personally like to see the giants of synthesis spending more time energy and creatvity on the UI design of hardware synths... after all, that's really the only reason to buy one! :) Have a most excellent Xmas!
7:15 excellent work on that patch!
Great review as always. Thank you!
What is that spectrum analyzer thingy onscreen in the background? I was thinking to get my daughter this synth, and it might be neat to have her see the frequencies generated while playing, to understand sound better.
It's cool, but it feels like its a looping/ multi-point envelope or two off being truly amazing.
Thanks for the review. Great!
Dear KORG, not many people have garages available to put desk, PC, master keyboard controllers, monitor speakers, audio interfaces, mixers and all your wonderful synths in. Please make them in module format!
If they were in module format, I surely would buy Modwave, Wavestate and this one all in a bundle, because they all are great, but I don't have any more space in my room!
We are in the Home Studio Age. Let those huge and gorgeous mega synthesizers for the pros. We ordinary people need compact size hardware, and surely we don't need to have 8 or 10 keybeds, we already have decent keyboard controllers, maybe even with poly AT. Otherwise we have to rely on software plugins only and that would be a pity...
Nick - you can use the User algorithm to build the 4 op for the Lately Bass
I figured you could, but honestly had no idea how to!
Module please
I’m looking for very musical sounds suited for House chord stabs mainly, some pads and leads as well. Could this be the best option between the three Korg models?
Three octaves are not acceptable and far away from professionale use. So will there be a module version?
Are the filters analog or analog modelled..? also are the keys full sized or slim..?
It's a 100% digital synth. Keys are fullsize, bit keybed isn't the greatest
Maybe there will be a new Volca fm or desktop module coming?... I would definitely buy one. I got too many keyboards in my studio and not enough room. Thanks Nick!
This is very similar to Yamaha SY 77 . I have it .
Woooahhhhhhh. That's nice ;-)
Fantastic Synth...thinking about selling my original DX7 MK1 to get an OPSIX