"Why only 8 voices?" This is the answer to a question I got frequently on this video. If you look at similar synths they also have few voices. Minifreak has 6, HydraSynth Explorer has 8, Cobalt8 has... you guessed it: 8 voices. Now you might rightly ask: How come a synth like the Wavestate have 128 voices? Or if we compare grooveboxes why does Novation Circuit Tracks have 12 note polyphony when Yamaha Seqtrak has 128? (Keep in mind i'm not a programmer, but I have discussed this with friends who are) The answer is that not all voices are created equal. While the Seqtrak CPU is likely more powerful than Circuit Tracks it is not THAT much more powerful. So how come it has 128 voices vs only 12 for the on-board synths? The reason is that the sounds on Seqtrak as well as Wavestate are at the core sample based. If you compare the sound shaping parameters available on Seqtraks synth tracks VS the Circuit sound editor you will be amazed at the difference. On the Circuit Tracks you can program sounds on a very deep level, whereas Seqtrak only allows for surface level tweaks to its sounds. But the Seqtrak also sports a non sample based FM synth and it only has 8 note polyphony! This synth offers much more in terms of deep sound design. Synths that generate the sound in a very detailed way from 1's and 0's are going to require more CPU then synths using some sort of multi-sampling technology. And thats just the raw oscillators. Then we have wave shaping, cross modulation, filter modeling, VCA's... and even FX! Not all FX sounds equally good. The Seqtrak for example has pretty good FX and also a decent sounding master compressor. That will also eat away that that processing power. But does the approach to sound generation affect sound? YES! Absolutely. Take the Seqtrak, load a bass synth sound and start tweaking the filter. The more you push the sound the more you will notice a difference VS a VA synth like Minifreak or MK2. The Seqtraks filters won't sound as good! But if you compare its piano sound to that of the AstroLab they are actually pretty comparable. Because both are essentially decent multi-sampled pianos. And there's not much processing magic going on. But compare AstroLabs bass synths versus the Seqtraks and it is a massive difference once you start pushing the sound using filters with high resonance or distortion. Because most of AstroLabs bass sounds are not sample based. I hope this is helpful to someone. Maybe its worth making a video on the subject. Interview someone really knowledgeable about it perhaps? This is just my basic understanding of it all and there is a ton of nuance to this topic. And nothing I wrote is an argument in favor of buying any particular piece of gear. I think its just good to make sure we are comparing apples to apples here. If VA synths didn't require more processing power we would see huge poly counts on them as well!
I think it would be a pretty interesting topic to cover. I have seen the same misconceptions about this all over the internet, also the alternate, but same: "its digital, why does it only have X polyphony? - It must be artificial pricing. (assuming that its the same chips and specs on higher poly gear) (Even if it is the same chips, it might be the same that happens in CPU market in general: the high end gear have the chips that pass testing for higher loads/clock rates, and the cheaper gear gets CPUs with lower clock / disabled cores due to stability - after all its better to sell a chip that under performs cheaper then to toss it in a bin...)
The sound design is actually really quite impressive. I can certainly see how this could fit into a space constrained studio. As usual, this is a great video 👍🏻
My very first synth of my own was the original microkorg because it was the best I could afford as a kid in high school with a part time job. The vocoder alone kept it part of my production setup for a good decade and a half before I sold it as part of a great hardware purge for the sake of space. I miss the thing but I don't miss its limitations enough to buy the old one again so this new model is perfect for me to get back into hard synths with an old familiar friend with some new bells and whistles. The screen upgrade is a pretty huge bell and whistle! And I can't wait to play with the new harmonizer mode on the vocoder!
Great review. I like what Korg have done with the user interface, it appears to be very learner-friendly. I already have a Korg Minilogue XD module, so I don't feel that the MicroKorg 2 offers me anything, but I hope it helps many people to start their journey into electronic music hardware.
It's not always digital sounding but it can be , it has an analog filter and you can do tricks to make the osc sound warm and vintage , don't blame the synth for user ignorance
I see a lot of complainers in the comments, i think it sounds great and the screen looks awesome, i think people are now thinking i need everything and the kitchen sink for $400. If the Hydrasynth is better, just buy that. Korg is a Korg and a fantastic product for what it is.
I'm a big Korg fan - love the sound of their synths and have a handful of them from the Minilogue XD to the Radius and the Karma, all of them sound great . And the MicroKorg's got a very good sound engine too, no complaints. My main problem with the original MicroKorg is the user interface, especially the big dial. As Bo said, it really wasn't all that fun. It's just so un-Korg like compared to pretty much any other synth they've ever released, and the main reason I don't use mine much. I've not got a long sell list, but the original MicroKorg's at the top of it, alongside the overhyped Dreadbox Typhoon. This new version however looks a LOT more accessible, and I love the new screen. But with regards to the original, I think it's horses for courses, and someone else might love the UI. Definitely a case of try before you buy.
It's.a nice looking synth. It will be interesting to see how it does. The screen is the thing you most notice. Nice big values. The simplicity of the synth might win people over. One thing I like about e.g. The Microbrute is the record notes function. You just hit record and it records in a sequence of notes. It's very handy. Maybe this would be a useful little thing to add sometime and the loop export. Those purple and green buttons are very tasteful. Well done to that synth designer!
This is embarrassing. While watching this I looked over at my microkorg, the first synth I bought, and for the first time actually understood how I am supposed to program it. I have, like you said, only really played with the presets and tweaking them. Now after 15 years I can actually make my first real patch. Thank you! I haven't thought about the micrkorg in many years, he has just been there running basic arps for over a decade. 🤦♂❤
In my opinion the main reason for Korg to sell the 2. version is - to impress the next generation of musicians. The mk1 versions are outdated without the little monitor and more to buy in a second hand area... Ok, the practical side-effect is very nice but to be honest - the monitor will cost around 15$ with touch controll... without 10$... I wil buy it in a few weeks or get it as a gift on christmas from my wife. It's so cute... 😇
Oooh the MK2! Such a staple in synth history. The MicroKorg was my first synth, and think for sure the scope is a great add for new sound design explorers :)
I did love the old one and not having anything right now it'll be a welcome addition to anyone in need of something with a entire catalogue of sound for not much money. I personally think it's much better than the original so personally think they did very well!!! The Vocoder has been massively upgraded... harmonies function is a great add for background vocal effects
The only problem is the price. You can get more for less. You can get a hydrasynth explorer brand new for the same price. Then there is the Novation Mininova. This should be $350-$400 max.
I feel like this is geared at people deliberately pursuing simplicity and limitations. If you want a lot more the Minifreak is a no brainer in this price range.
At $350-400 this would be much more competitive. It’s very comparable to a mini nova minus the screen. Heck, I’m pretty sure the mini nova has 18 voices of polyphony. (It’s kinda vague when you look it up though). I was able to get a mini nova and an ultra nova used for $200 each! (After touch is dead on the ultranova though). My hydrasynth sounds awesome and supposedly the explorer has the same engine, so I couldn’t imagine not getting that over anything else in the same price range. I bought a minifreak used and it’s pretty good, but to me there is no comparing it to the hydrasynth. Luckily it sounds different enough that I think it might be useful to me.
Well it's 57,500JPY in Amazon Japan. Hydrasynth Explorer costs almost double, at 108,900JPY, Minifreak is not much different at 89,900JPY. Mininova on the other hand, costs roughly similar at 52,300JPY.
In europe the prices of Minifreak, MicroKorg 2 and HydraSynth Explorer are quite similar. And each has its own strengths and weaknesses. Hydra & MK2 are 8 voice synths, the Mini a 6 voice one but with analog filter. I think MK2 is the only bi-timbral synth. Perhaps time for a comparison!
Screen looks nice. The original MicroKorg was my first synth so I was always pretty fond of it. I didn't really feel like creating patches from scratch and experimenting with it was that difficult or awkward. It took me a little while to understand how to do that, but I also had no frame of reference from other synths.
2 месяца назад+2
In 2002 I was working the Cleveland Ohio Guitar Center, the OG MicroKorg came out, and I think I sold about 120 inthe 1st month. Personally, I never cared for it, I hate the mini keys, and I had a MS2000, so it would have been redundant, however, the OG MK did get a LOT of folks into synths, and making electronic based music, and that's a good thing!
Beginner is a funny word, it has connotations that this synth might only be for those without any idea about synthesized sound. I'm an experienced musician, 6 decades and I've owned the mk1 for 22 years, I still don't class myself as experienced because I'm a guitarist first, then a dabbler in synth technology. I do love the screen on the mk2 so will have to wait until the price comes down to reality.
God some of you people wouldn't know what to do with yourselves if you weren't able to complain about synths costing more than $100. This synth looks amazing, and is exceptionally well priced for what it offers. I will gladly be purchasing one
@@Jaesee I think you’ve misunderstood. People aren’t complaining because this costs more than $100, they are complaining because there are lots of other more capable synths for a similar price. So the issue isn’t ’synths costing more than $100’, it’s *this* synth costing more than it’s worth in a crowded market and being poor value for money. Feels like a price premium for the name/badge tbh. The irony being something like a ASM Hydrasynth has WAY more cachet than a current model Korg.
@jong5306 I was being hyperbolic big homie. And the point of this product isn't capability (although it is exceptionally capable) as much as it is versatility and accessibility. Programming a patch on this seems much simpler and direct for beginners than programming a patch on the hydrasynth, for instance.
@K.KILLORAN I'm still hoping for Circuit + or something similar. Although it seems that new Polyend Synth this year may take the crown for best groove box... 😊
This is what the Microkorg XL should have been. It's the same basic concept, but replaced the UI with something actually good, and added a basic looper. The flaws of the XL were the terrible UI and the need for external gear to layer recordings, and this fixes both. It'd be a lot of fun for practice and couch jams, when not trying to produce songs. Could use a more powerful looper though.
My First synth was a Korg monologue, Love this synth and its perfect for learning synthesis. The fact its an Mono synth is not a "downgrade" at all, its Just a thing how you can handle that Beast of Budget synth. So i think the minilogue will be my next choice but this synth is really cool, maybe i go for it later, but there more other synths on my list to buy before i get one of these. Thanks for the great Video
Very nice offering! Fun and portable!! Nice fit for a small studio. The new Gaia actually has a new synth engine. …and the Minibrute is the Minibrute! Options are a good thing.
Volca FM2 is super dope. Buy this instead of the MK Mkii. FM2 is less than half the price and double the fun. Be sure to buy the Casio or MyVolts power supply, as the Korg one is way too expensive (40€). In that regard Korg is a tiny little bit scammy.
@@feodorfiorina7835 I ordered the Volca FM2 so now it's fun all the way, I intend to route it thru my Microkorg mk1 because I really like the arpeggiator. I already have the Volca drum, which BTW is a giant.
I'm a beginner, so this helpful. What speakers monitors would you recommend to go with it? If setup time isn't a factor, what are the advantages of fully functional synths vs plugging a MIDI controlled keyboard like a Keylaunch or Keylab into an ipad and using VSTs, Logic, etc.?
A synth is an instrument. No latency. Purpose built UI vs generic on a midi controller. Thats a big pro for a synth. However if you are starting out and you are already using a DAW i would first get a good midi controller and some good software synths. Then add in hardware synths once you know kind of what you are looking for
My sense is that the intended market for this is much the same as the Mark I: People who aren't "synth" people who need a synthesizer. I've seen a lot of guitarists, bassists, and even drummers with a MicroKorg next to them. They have a lot of usable presets, they're portable and unobtrusive on stage, they can work as MIDI controllers, and you don't have to know a whole lot about synthesis to use one. I'm not certain this Mk II will appeal to this group as much as the original, but given the user-friendliness of the interface and the way the sounds are grouped, I wouldn't be surprised if it does well.
I do have a question which is not mentioned in any video about microkorg 2. Is there’s an option to separate actual vocal from vocoder output signal (but still hear them both in the same time ) as my choice depending on this particular feature and , if it’s impossible to do so there’s no sense buying microkorg…. for sure I can tell there is a function like that in behringer vocoder vc340 . Please help me
Nice review! @25:17, just as you turned on the ARP - that was a very nice sound :P But as a uKORG owner for like 21 years now, I find IT'S sound a little more 'brute and upfront' when needed - or maybe it's youtube compression, but listening to uKORG demos here, yeh, a bit more in'yo'face.
I've had some freezing as well with the Korg Opsix. It doesn't happen all the time, but it has happened several times. Usually seems like when I'm just putting way too much stuff on a patch. Maybe that's just one of the issues with digital/software?
@@foljs5858 I think this would have been selling decently at around 450. At 600, I can’t imagine anyone buying this over a hydrasynth or a minifreak. Same applies for the drumlogue and kaoss rp (a thousand bucks! lmao)
I like the fact they have genres to select from as a nod to the OG microkorg. This feels much more user friendly than the microfreak or the roland giaia 2. The big screen feels really innovative too. In an era where the yamaha reface costs $450, this is a fair deal. This is going on my christmas list
Good video. Very expensive for what it is. If I had €600 to spend I could get a boatload of secondhand gear or indeed any number of better/more interesting new synths. ( probably including the Behringer wave if it ever actually arrives as I’ve always been a huge ppg wave fan) I can even tell you don’t have the heart to recommend it, ding ding next. 😀
Why did Korg decide to design the MicroKorg 2 using AA-format batteries instead of employing rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that charge via a USB Type-C or micro USB port, as commonly used in mobile devices?
So you cant save any of your work.... Im really confused what to get for a first Synth. im looking something that could do some rock pop synthwave 80s. Vocal processor would be great , building sounds, injecting sounds ... any tips for this would help. Thanks
You can save sounds. But not a loop. Check out Minilogue XD, HydraSynth Explorer, Minifreak. In addition to MicroKorg 2 I think those are all excellent starting points.
It's the same MicroKorg we all know and love, but it's 2024 not 2004. I got it, the engine inside MicroKorg is a revival of old tech that i personally love very much... but we need new gear with it, not old microprocessors on a new PCBs with funny color screen. Should we hope for the better? I don't know.
Sorry but why aren't all synth screen like this ?? there is no excuse for tiny two character screens in 2024 with synths that cost thousands..we are being scammed.
I was thinking the same thing. This is an entry level synth with a very good informative screen. UDO gives us zero screens and Sequential gives us a two digit LED, all for several thousand dollars each. Anyone designing a synth in current times should know to give as much legible information as possible, including exact values when knob-turning/slider sliding.
@@straighttalk2069 I hate the sound (game over, right there). I hate the cobbled-together look. I hate the price. It just seems like Korg wants to fail atm.
I think a Hydrasynth explorer is more capable for almost the same price. What Korg should consider is making an update to the MS2000--it has a ton of real-time controls, and is really fun to program, midi timing issues aside.
The screem is a perfect idea, Korg must take it for thé next model. We see what we are doing … and they can add the others genre of music too … almost 2025 😔 …
It's kinda like the Roland JD-Xi, a bit too simple for experienced users and a bit too expensive for beginners. And the pots instead of encoders are a bizarre choice. I did kinda like my Microkorg XL, it did some weird stuff I still can't get out of any other synths, like being able to sync noise.
I'm investigating if is worth to change from my MKXL+ to the MK2 but the DWGS vintage patches doesn't let me. Also, I just noticed that on the XL+ I can put e.g. distortion and chorus Here, I can't the more I search, the more I stick with the ol' reliable XL+
thanks for the video, this is a very impressive synth. Definitely on my to buy list. However I do feel it's too expensive, I was expecting it to be similar price point of the first MicroKorg which is 429.99 so this would be perfect around 449.99
![Seungmin "그렇게, 천천히, 우리(As we are)" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kAzmhLHePqU/mqdefault.jpg)
"Why only 8 voices?" This is the answer to a question I got frequently on this video. If you look at similar synths they also have few voices. Minifreak has 6, HydraSynth Explorer has 8, Cobalt8 has... you guessed it: 8 voices. Now you might rightly ask: How come a synth like the Wavestate have 128 voices? Or if we compare grooveboxes why does Novation Circuit Tracks have 12 note polyphony when Yamaha Seqtrak has 128?
(Keep in mind i'm not a programmer, but I have discussed this with friends who are)
The answer is that not all voices are created equal. While the Seqtrak CPU is likely more powerful than Circuit Tracks it is not THAT much more powerful. So how come it has 128 voices vs only 12 for the on-board synths? The reason is that the sounds on Seqtrak as well as Wavestate are at the core sample based. If you compare the sound shaping parameters available on Seqtraks synth tracks VS the Circuit sound editor you will be amazed at the difference. On the Circuit Tracks you can program sounds on a very deep level, whereas Seqtrak only allows for surface level tweaks to its sounds. But the Seqtrak also sports a non sample based FM synth and it only has 8 note polyphony! This synth offers much more in terms of deep sound design.
Synths that generate the sound in a very detailed way from 1's and 0's are going to require more CPU then synths using some sort of multi-sampling technology. And thats just the raw oscillators. Then we have wave shaping, cross modulation, filter modeling, VCA's... and even FX! Not all FX sounds equally good. The Seqtrak for example has pretty good FX and also a decent sounding master compressor. That will also eat away that that processing power.
But does the approach to sound generation affect sound? YES! Absolutely. Take the Seqtrak, load a bass synth sound and start tweaking the filter. The more you push the sound the more you will notice a difference VS a VA synth like Minifreak or MK2. The Seqtraks filters won't sound as good! But if you compare its piano sound to that of the AstroLab they are actually pretty comparable. Because both are essentially decent multi-sampled pianos. And there's not much processing magic going on. But compare AstroLabs bass synths versus the Seqtraks and it is a massive difference once you start pushing the sound using filters with high resonance or distortion. Because most of AstroLabs bass sounds are not sample based.
I hope this is helpful to someone. Maybe its worth making a video on the subject. Interview someone really knowledgeable about it perhaps? This is just my basic understanding of it all and there is a ton of nuance to this topic. And nothing I wrote is an argument in favor of buying any particular piece of gear. I think its just good to make sure we are comparing apples to apples here. If VA synths didn't require more processing power we would see huge poly counts on them as well!
Hej hej!! Hoppas att fästen var kul!!🎉🎉❤
(Från Liv/Loppan)
Wow.❤
I think it would be a pretty interesting topic to cover. I have seen the same misconceptions about this all over the internet, also the alternate, but same: "its digital, why does it only have X polyphony? - It must be artificial pricing. (assuming that its the same chips and specs on higher poly gear)
(Even if it is the same chips, it might be the same that happens in CPU market in general: the high end gear have the chips that pass testing for higher loads/clock rates, and the cheaper gear gets CPUs with lower clock / disabled cores due to stability - after all its better to sell a chip that under performs cheaper then to toss it in a bin...)
Great explanation, thanks for clarifying.
Hé ben dis donc pour écrire tout cela vous avez du mettre un mois 😂
I think that screen display looks excellent for someone new to synthesisers and will really help them to understand what's going on inside.
The sound design is actually really quite impressive. I can certainly see how this could fit into a space constrained studio. As usual, this is a great video 👍🏻
15:05 “That gives a subtle pitch shift… not like that!!” 😂 my favourite moment right here and thank you for keeping that in the edit!! 🙌
My very first synth of my own was the original microkorg because it was the best I could afford as a kid in high school with a part time job. The vocoder alone kept it part of my production setup for a good decade and a half before I sold it as part of a great hardware purge for the sake of space. I miss the thing but I don't miss its limitations enough to buy the old one again so this new model is perfect for me to get back into hard synths with an old familiar friend with some new bells and whistles. The screen upgrade is a pretty huge bell and whistle! And I can't wait to play with the new harmonizer mode on the vocoder!
Great review. I like what Korg have done with the user interface, it appears to be very learner-friendly. I already have a Korg Minilogue XD module, so I don't feel that the MicroKorg 2 offers me anything, but I hope it helps many people to start their journey into electronic music hardware.
I love the inclusion of the waveform! I like it! As a beginner, this may turn out to be my forth!
I had a microfreak but hated the cold digital sound. This sounds much nicer.
It's not always digital sounding but it can be , it has an analog filter and you can do tricks to make the osc sound warm and vintage , don't blame the synth for user ignorance
I quite liked the old Microkorg. I never owned one, but I always ended up playing on it in the music shop. This new one seems even more attractive.
Vocoder sounds good
I see a lot of complainers in the comments, i think it sounds great and the screen looks awesome, i think people are now thinking i need everything and the kitchen sink for $400. If the Hydrasynth is better, just buy that. Korg is a Korg and a fantastic product for what it is.
meh
😂😂😂
I'm a big Korg fan - love the sound of their synths and have a handful of them from the Minilogue XD to the Radius and the Karma, all of them sound great . And the MicroKorg's got a very good sound engine too, no complaints.
My main problem with the original MicroKorg is the user interface, especially the big dial. As Bo said, it really wasn't all that fun. It's just so un-Korg like compared to pretty much any other synth they've ever released, and the main reason I don't use mine much. I've not got a long sell list, but the original MicroKorg's at the top of it, alongside the overhyped Dreadbox Typhoon. This new version however looks a LOT more accessible, and I love the new screen.
But with regards to the original, I think it's horses for courses, and someone else might love the UI. Definitely a case of try before you buy.
It's.a nice looking synth. It will be interesting to see how it does. The screen is the thing you most notice. Nice big values. The simplicity of the synth might win people over.
One thing I like about e.g. The Microbrute is the record notes function. You just hit record and it records in a sequence of notes. It's very handy. Maybe this would be a useful little thing to add sometime and the loop export. Those purple and green buttons are very tasteful. Well done to that synth designer!
This is embarrassing. While watching this I looked over at my microkorg, the first synth I bought, and for the first time actually understood how I am supposed to program it. I have, like you said, only really played with the presets and tweaking them. Now after 15 years I can actually make my first real patch. Thank you! I haven't thought about the micrkorg in many years, he has just been there running basic arps for over a decade. 🤦♂❤
😂😂😂. Brutal honesty.
That screen tho….. 🔥
$500 in China. Not a bad price for something that seems quite versatile. As you've said, Bo, it's a good synth for beginners.
In my opinion the main reason for Korg to sell the 2. version is - to impress the next generation of musicians. The mk1 versions are outdated without the little monitor and more to buy in a second hand area... Ok, the practical side-effect is very nice but to be honest - the monitor will cost around 15$ with touch controll... without 10$...
I wil buy it in a few weeks or get it as a gift on christmas from my wife. It's so cute... 😇
Oooh the MK2! Such a staple in synth history. The MicroKorg was my first synth, and think for sure the scope is a great add for new sound design explorers :)
I did love the old one and not having anything right now it'll be a welcome addition to anyone in need of something with a entire catalogue of sound for not much money.
I personally think it's much better than the original so personally think they did very well!!!
The Vocoder has been massively upgraded... harmonies function is a great add for background vocal effects
It’s beautiful.
The only problem is the price. You can get more for less. You can get a hydrasynth explorer brand new for the same price. Then there is the Novation Mininova. This should be $350-$400 max.
I feel like this is geared at people deliberately pursuing simplicity and limitations. If you want a lot more the Minifreak is a no brainer in this price range.
At $350-400 this would be much more competitive. It’s very comparable to a mini nova minus the screen. Heck, I’m pretty sure the mini nova has 18 voices of polyphony. (It’s kinda vague when you look it up though). I was able to get a mini nova and an ultra nova used for $200 each! (After touch is dead on the ultranova though). My hydrasynth sounds awesome and supposedly the explorer has the same engine, so I couldn’t imagine not getting that over anything else in the same price range. I bought a minifreak used and it’s pretty good, but to me there is no comparing it to the hydrasynth. Luckily it sounds different enough that I think it might be useful to me.
Well it's 57,500JPY in Amazon Japan. Hydrasynth Explorer costs almost double, at 108,900JPY, Minifreak is not much different at 89,900JPY. Mininova on the other hand, costs roughly similar at 52,300JPY.
In europe the prices of Minifreak, MicroKorg 2 and HydraSynth Explorer are quite similar. And each has its own strengths and weaknesses. Hydra & MK2 are 8 voice synths, the Mini a 6 voice one but with analog filter. I think MK2 is the only bi-timbral synth. Perhaps time for a comparison!
Excellent Points Max!!! 🍺🍕
Screen looks nice. The original MicroKorg was my first synth so I was always pretty fond of it. I didn't really feel like creating patches from scratch and experimenting with it was that difficult or awkward. It took me a little while to understand how to do that, but I also had no frame of reference from other synths.
In 2002 I was working the Cleveland Ohio Guitar Center, the OG MicroKorg came out, and I think I sold about 120 inthe 1st month. Personally, I never cared for it, I hate the mini keys, and I had a MS2000, so it would have been redundant, however, the OG MK did get a LOT of folks into synths, and making electronic based music, and that's a good thing!
Beginner is a funny word, it has connotations that this synth might only be for those without any idea about synthesized sound. I'm an experienced musician, 6 decades and I've owned the mk1 for 22 years, I still don't class myself as experienced because I'm a guitarist first, then a dabbler in synth technology. I do love the screen on the mk2 so will have to wait until the price comes down to reality.
The main thing l learned from this
video, is that Bo is a very, very, very
jaded man ! I like him.
Awesome video Brother!!! Gotta say this sounds and looks TASTY!!❤️
hi bo, what asuperb review, one of your very best imho! cool synth too :)
Thanks Woody!
Vocoder is awesome!
God some of you people wouldn't know what to do with yourselves if you weren't able to complain about synths costing more than $100. This synth looks amazing, and is exceptionally well priced for what it offers. I will gladly be purchasing one
preach! 😅
@@Jaesee I think you’ve misunderstood. People aren’t complaining because this costs more than $100, they are complaining because there are lots of other more capable synths for a similar price. So the issue isn’t ’synths costing more than $100’, it’s *this* synth costing more than it’s worth in a crowded market and being poor value for money.
Feels like a price premium for the name/badge tbh. The irony being something like a ASM Hydrasynth has WAY more cachet than a current model Korg.
@jong5306 I was being hyperbolic big homie. And the point of this product isn't capability (although it is exceptionally capable) as much as it is versatility and accessibility. Programming a patch on this seems much simpler and direct for beginners than programming a patch on the hydrasynth, for instance.
@@Jaesee I see. It’s more expensive than it should be because it’s simpler and less functional. Form over function. Thanks.
@jong5306 that is certainly not what I said, but you seem pretty set on complaining about this synth so I won't bother arguing with you about it.
Came to watch microkorg review... Fell in love in circuit all over again 😅
*Cries iNovation xD
Imagine if Novation did a super circuit with a little screen that can be turned off and multitrack out. Please lord.
@K.KILLORAN I'm still hoping for Circuit + or something similar.
Although it seems that new Polyend Synth this year may take the crown for best groove box... 😊
This synth is so cool! I want one
This is what the Microkorg XL should have been. It's the same basic concept, but replaced the UI with something actually good, and added a basic looper. The flaws of the XL were the terrible UI and the need for external gear to layer recordings, and this fixes both. It'd be a lot of fun for practice and couch jams, when not trying to produce songs. Could use a more powerful looper though.
Sequencer
My First synth was a Korg monologue, Love this synth and its perfect for learning synthesis. The fact its an Mono synth is not a "downgrade" at all, its Just a thing how you can handle that Beast of Budget synth. So i think the minilogue will be my next choice but this synth is really cool, maybe i go for it later, but there more other synths on my list to buy before i get one of these.
Thanks for the great Video
Very nice offering! Fun and portable!! Nice fit for a small studio. The new Gaia actually has a new synth engine. …and the Minibrute is the Minibrute! Options are a good thing.
Thanks for the critique, so much hooha about this synth, I own a mk1, love it and am considering either this or a Volca FM2, cost is an issue.
Volca FM2 is super dope. Buy this instead of the MK Mkii. FM2 is less than half the price and double the fun. Be sure to buy the Casio or MyVolts power supply, as the Korg one is way too expensive (40€). In that regard Korg is a tiny little bit scammy.
@@feodorfiorina7835 I ordered the Volca FM2 so now it's fun all the way, I intend to route it thru my Microkorg mk1 because I really like the arpeggiator. I already have the Volca drum, which BTW is a giant.
Microkorg is a no brainer for just about any multi keyboardist. It can sit cozily in any setup and add that extra patch you always seem to need 🌝
I'm a beginner, so this helpful. What speakers monitors would you recommend to go with it? If setup time isn't a factor, what are the advantages of fully functional synths vs plugging a MIDI controlled keyboard like a Keylaunch or Keylab into an ipad and using VSTs, Logic, etc.?
A synth is an instrument. No latency. Purpose built UI vs generic on a midi controller. Thats a big pro for a synth. However if you are starting out and you are already using a DAW i would first get a good midi controller and some good software synths. Then add in hardware synths once you know kind of what you are looking for
This is a true clear honest review. thank you.
Bang goes my Christmas budget 😂👍🏼
Microkorgs of any vintage will still find their way into backpacks of fledgling musicians everywhere.
As a module with midi CC and vocoder is pretty nice. In tandem with SH-4d 👍
Bra recension! Tack så mycket! ❤
The vocoder sound excellent on its, interesting analogue synth though
My sense is that the intended market for this is much the same as the Mark I: People who aren't "synth" people who need a synthesizer. I've seen a lot of guitarists, bassists, and even drummers with a MicroKorg next to them. They have a lot of usable presets, they're portable and unobtrusive on stage, they can work as MIDI controllers, and you don't have to know a whole lot about synthesis to use one. I'm not certain this Mk II will appeal to this group as much as the original, but given the user-friendliness of the interface and the way the sounds are grouped, I wouldn't be surprised if it does well.
I think this is a very good take!
I do have a question which is not mentioned in any video about microkorg 2.
Is there’s an option to separate actual vocal from vocoder output signal (but still hear them both in the same time ) as my choice depending on this particular feature and , if it’s impossible to do so there’s no sense buying microkorg….
for sure I can tell there is a function like that in behringer vocoder vc340 . Please help me
Hello from France!
What's the maximum length of the loop, please ?
Thank you.
Bosses jädra beats! 😀
Great video BoBeats!
Hard to see this competing with Microfreak at the same price, but still cool.
I wish my Minifreak had a display that size and a nicer GUI with it.
Nice review!
@25:17, just as you turned on the ARP - that was a very nice sound :P
But as a uKORG owner for like 21 years now, I find IT'S sound a little more 'brute and upfront' when needed - or maybe it's youtube compression, but listening to uKORG demos here, yeh, a bit more in'yo'face.
I’ll stick with my minifreak :)
I've had some freezing as well with the Korg Opsix. It doesn't happen all the time, but it has happened several times. Usually seems like when I'm just putting way too much stuff on a patch. Maybe that's just one of the issues with digital/software?
Thanks for the review
I got a question about the sounds of the 3 Inst Pianos and Organs, which ones does it resembles?
I don't know. I'm still in love with my Minilogue original. Apart from the vocoder function, I'm not impressed.
i just picked up a teenage engineering ko2 ep133, looking for a thing to pair it with, what should i get?
Honest opunion. That keep me watching your videos🎉
When is going to be available to the public?. Thanks
I dont know, in todays age things seem to get delayed alot
@@BoBeats that’s right, thanks
Can't the loops be recorded using the audio out?
If Korg’s mission is shelling out products that cost 50% more than they should, great job Korg!
It's $600. What did you expect, to give you one for free, plus a pony?
Another Raspberry Pi in a box? 🤷🏻♂️
@@foljs5858 I think this would have been selling decently at around 450.
At 600, I can’t imagine anyone buying this over a hydrasynth or a minifreak.
Same applies for the drumlogue and kaoss rp (a thousand bucks! lmao)
Stop crying! Go get something from Roland, Then you can cry like a little girl!
@@foljs5858 no, but it’s simply not worth that much
I like the fact they have genres to select from as a nod to the OG microkorg. This feels much more user friendly than the microfreak or the roland giaia 2. The big screen feels really innovative too. In an era where the yamaha reface costs $450, this is a fair deal. This is going on my christmas list
i like the face you did when you start tweaking the filter!! .....well its a filter!!😅 i remenber the first one was quit cool actualy!
Good video. Very expensive for what it is. If I had €600 to spend I could get a boatload of secondhand gear or indeed any number of better/more interesting new synths. ( probably including the Behringer wave if it ever actually arrives as I’ve always been a huge ppg wave fan) I can even tell you don’t have the heart to recommend it, ding ding next. 😀
5:05 What synthesisers with "amazing" sounds would you recommend? Well, not expensive.
Surprisingly expensive in the UK - around £500. It will come down of course, £250-300 would be more like it.
Holding out for the HeteroIII
Why did Korg decide to design the MicroKorg 2 using AA-format batteries instead of employing rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that charge via a USB Type-C or micro USB port, as commonly used in mobile devices?
Bo what do you need from us to help free yourself from the descending melody purgatory you find yourself in?
nice job
I’ll take it off your hands my friend Bo.
So you cant save any of your work....
Im really confused what to get for a first Synth.
im looking something that could do some rock pop synthwave 80s.
Vocal processor would be great , building sounds, injecting sounds ...
any tips for this would help.
Thanks
You can save sounds. But not a loop.
Check out Minilogue XD, HydraSynth Explorer, Minifreak. In addition to MicroKorg 2 I think those are all excellent starting points.
I can heartily recommend the Roland JD-Xi
@@nickswannell1020 Worst. Keys. Ever.
@@nickswannell1020 seconding JD-Xi, also Minilogue XD
@BoBeats thank you appreciate 🙏🏻
It's the same MicroKorg we all know and love, but it's 2024 not 2004. I got it, the engine inside MicroKorg is a revival of old tech that i personally love very much... but we need new gear with it, not old microprocessors on a new PCBs with funny color screen. Should we hope for the better? I don't know.
Sorry but why aren't all synth screen like this ?? there is no excuse for tiny two character screens in 2024 with synths that cost thousands..we are being scammed.
A good question!
I was thinking the same thing. This is an entry level synth with a very good informative screen. UDO gives us zero screens and Sequential gives us a two digit LED, all for several thousand dollars each. Anyone designing a synth in current times should know to give as much legible information as possible, including exact values when knob-turning/slider sliding.
Damn another micro Korg? I thought the S, or the XL was the new one
How would you compare it with sh4d?
Good question! Not sure as SH4D is such a different kind of product. More groovebox-like.
@@BoBeats yes, I meant synth and sound design capabilities. Which sounds more better or more "analog" :D
Didn’t they release this earlier this year?
They announced it earlier this year yes
Sequencer do how many bar
00:02 : *I've heard it's actually from Roland 🙃
As beginner my minimum Synthesizer is Korg multi/poly.
i dont think its good beginner friendly synth. Korg Minilogue in both versions is much better (learning synthesis is straight forward on those)
Minilogue. Sucks. Dont buy it.
I don’t think I’ve ever hated a synth, until now …
The only thing not likeable about this synth is it's price.
The main reason for the OG Microkorgs success was it's price.
@@straighttalk2069 I hate the sound (game over, right there).
I hate the cobbled-together look.
I hate the price.
It just seems like Korg wants to fail atm.
I think a Hydrasynth explorer is more capable for almost the same price. What Korg should consider is making an update to the MS2000--it has a ton of real-time controls, and is really fun to program, midi timing issues aside.
The screem is a perfect idea, Korg must take it for thé next model. We see what we are doing … and they can add the others genre of music too … almost 2025 😔 …
How much is it
Got mine for $500 Its amazing. Paired it with my Sp-404mkii and I can make full tracks easily.
You would get better street cred if you rock the OG microkorg IMO
Streetcred and synths… something feels off with that combo
It's kinda like the Roland JD-Xi, a bit too simple for experienced users and a bit too expensive for beginners. And the pots instead of encoders are a bizarre choice. I did kinda like my Microkorg XL, it did some weird stuff I still can't get out of any other synths, like being able to sync noise.
I'm investigating if is worth to change from my MKXL+ to the MK2 but the DWGS vintage patches doesn't let me.
Also, I just noticed that on the XL+ I can put e.g. distortion and chorus
Here, I can't
the more I search, the more I stick with the ol' reliable XL+
Some of the microKORG2 presets were so deep that they made me feel like a synthesis beginner again.
8:02 … BoBeBeats? Are you changing your channel name … ? Or maybe to BobebEats … ?! 🍔
Looks just like a MiniNova....in Black form.
Don't see any performance pads.
thanks for the video, this is a very impressive synth. Definitely on my to buy list. However I do feel it's too expensive, I was expecting it to be similar price point of the first MicroKorg which is 429.99 so this would be perfect around 449.99
I prefer the microkorg 1
MicroKORG 2 or Minilogue XD ?
...red district lights in the home studio 🙂all the girls are "occupied" 🙂
I checked the price and yeah, Imma stick to my original one 💀
TIM-BER!
WO-LF
@@BoBeats BOB-EATS 😉
I was half way in this vid and than I got these huge teenage engineering fibes from this synth. But does it also have exploding frogs. SHS-10 owner.
TE vibes, in that it is overpriced.
Sound better than the minnova.
Yeah absolutely
The miniNOVA is hard to dial in, but you can get nice sounds out of it.
youtube's ads are getting out of control. it plays ad's in the background now, seems to be virus youtube now.
WRITE PROTECT : JOW TO TAKE IT OFF ?
sorry this or the Minilogue XD?
Minilogue if you want knob per function and is OK with only 4 note chords
This if u want vocal processor and deeper sound programming capability
You just demonstrated its ability to make sounds. Can it be used to make music?
No
@@BoBeats Great reply 🤣
@@straighttalk2069 I concur!