Korg Unveils Monotribe Analog Ribbon Station, Wavedrum Mini
At MusikMesse this week, Korg launched the new Monotribe Analog Ribbon Station, which incorporates analog synthesis, three-part discrete analog rhythm section (bass drum, snare, and hi-hat) and Korg’s Electribe-style pattern sequencing in one battery-powered unit. Analog Synth + Analog Rhythm + Step Sequencer = Analog Electribe.
Coming this summer!
Korg’s Electribe step-key interface provides a dedicated button for each of eight steps, allowing real-time, hands-on step editing of drum parts, as well as any synth part sequence played on the ribbon keyboard. Active Step editing lets users remove or re-insert individual steps, creating short loop-like effects or off-beat patterns that weave in and out of complex rhythms. Flux Mode allows the creation of sequenced synth parts that are not rigidly tied to the step grid.
The ribbon controller keyboard on the Monotribe provides three selectable playing modes/ranges. The chromatic mode (KEY) is ideal for playing melodies and bass lines, with the ribbon keyboard stepping from note to note. Users can switch to the continuous mode (NARROW) for smooth gliding between notes, just as on the monotron.
Also available is the wide continuous mode (WIDE) with a six-fold pitch range for more dramatic sweeping effects. In addition, pressing the Gate Time button will allow the gate time to be sequenced as the ribbon controller keyboard is played.
The Monotribe uses classic analog components, including the same VCF (Voltage Controlled Filter) circuit found on Korg’s MS-10 and MS-20 analog semi-patchable synthesizers. Using the audio input, any audio source can be enhanced by passing through the filter section. The Oscillator (VCO) offers a choice between sawtooth, triangle and square wave. White noise can be mixed in to the oscillator signal in any amount.
The Octave selector covers a broad range, from deep bass to piercing lead-lines. The EG (Envelope Generator) offers three presets shapes. The LFO (Low Frequency Oscillator) can be sent to the VCO and/or the VCF, creating dynamic effects. The Range switch selects Slow or Fast modulation ranges. Switching the LFO Mode to the 1-shot setting allows the LFO behave as a second envelope generator.
Korg also notes that “unlike analog synthesizers of yesteryear, which were prone to drift in pitch, the monotribe’s auto-tuning circuitry provides stable chromatic playability to keep it in tune. No warm-up time, no sensitivity to temperature changes – just the great sound of analog VCO.”
The Monotron will be available early Summer 2011 with pricing to be announced shortly. For more information, please visit http://www.korg.com.
Korg also debuted the new Wavedrum Mini, based on their Wavedrum series technology.
The Wavedrum Mini provides a playable pad, speaker, sounds, effects, patterns and a loop recorder, as well as a Sensor Clip to transform any object into a second sound source.
For the on-the-go Wavedrummer
Wavedrum Mini offers 100 ready-to-play sounds, including acoustic emulating drum and percussion to modern synth sounds, to bass, tuned percussion and stringed instruments.
Additional sounds can be accessed at the same time by attaching the Sensor Clip to a table top, cup, a user’s foot or any object, transforming the object into a percussion instrument. In addition, 10 multi-effects are available, from spatial-type effects (delay, chorus, and reverb), modern effects including filters and pitch-shifters, and distortion-type effects that deliver analog-style warmth.
The Wavedrum Mini is highly portable and ready to go — it comes with an AC adapter and can also run on batteries, and has a built-in speaker and a headphone output. It will be available Summer 2011 with pricing to be announced shortly. For more information, please visit http://www.korg.com.
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