KORG OPSIX FM Digital Synthesizer

FM Digital Synthesizer

The KORG OPSIX is a newly designed digital keyboard synthesizer, based on evolved FM synthesis coupled with a virtual analog subtractive processing chain, with 6 operators, 40 algorithms, 3 envelopes, 3 LFOs, a multi-mode filter, 3 effects sections, a polyphonic step sequencer; and 32 voices of polyphony.
The KORG OPSIX represents an evolution, an expansion, a new way of using digital FM synthesis. Just as with the return of wave sequencing, for which Korg designed and structured enhancements aimed at greater musicality, expressiveness, and optimized user accessibility with the innovative Wavestate, the approach to the typical FM sound generation of the OPSIX will also be extremely flexible and unique.
The Altered FM sound generation of the KORG OPSIX expands the sonic horizons of digital hardware synthesizers by combining typical virtual analog elements with an FM generation structure, including filters, envelopes, LFOs, and effects.
The KORG OPSIX is an “evolved” 6-operator FM synthesizer. With its surprisingly accessible operator management mixer and the flexibility of its sound engine that goes far beyond traditional FM synthesis, this instrument maximizes the potential of digital sound synthesis.
The 6 sliders and corresponding rotary potentiometers of the operator mixer, as well as the 6 multifunction knobs on the KORG OPSIX panel, are emblematic. Supported by two-color LED backlighting, they quickly reveal their correlation with the operators, and the role they assume depending on the algorithm in use: orange for carriers, purple for modulators.
In addition to the mixer for the 6 operators, the KORG OPSIX features a group of rotary controls on the right side of the panel. Using these 6 DATA ENTRY potentiometers allows for in-depth editing. Thanks to the indications on the large OLED display, you will never get lost in menus as often happened with FM synthesizers of the past.
Naturally, the KORG OPSIX encompasses everything related to FM synthesis, but not only. In addition to sine waves, the KORG OPSIX offers a wide range of waveforms to achieve more complex sounds, which can also be used as a subtractive synth with a filter. The operator modes of the KORG OPSIX can be used to generate sounds that go beyond what traditional FM synthesis has accustomed us to. You can create sounds using different modulations than FM. The KORG OPSIX offers a very wide sonic horizon, allowing you to combine the 5 operational modes of the operators (FM, ring modulation, filter, filter FM, and wavefolder) with a broad palette of selectable waveforms.
The KORG OPSIX features 40 preset algorithms that go beyond the traditional concept of FM synthesis. Moreover, thanks to the user algorithm, it is possible to build and set up an algorithm from scratch to further extend the sonic potential of this digital hardware synthesizer.
The synthesis offered by the KORG OPSIX has an extra gear thanks to the processors integrated in the final stage of the signal chain. The MOD section works independently of the operators and provides 3 envelope generators and 3 LFOs, with a virtual patch that allows up to 12 sources to interact with as many destinations, all selectable from a comprehensive list of parameters and functions. All of this represents an incredible source for extending the instrument's sonic capabilities, allowing for the generation of extremely particular and evolving timbres, especially modern ones comparable to the most popular EDM virtual instruments today.
Unlike traditional FM synthesis, the FILTER section of the KORG OPSIX supports sound creation by offering the classic subtractive synthesis experience typical of the analog world. By selecting the filter from a list that includes low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, and band-reject filters with 2- and 4-pole slopes and resonance, in addition to emulations of the MS-20's high-pass and low-pass and the Polysix's low-pass, it is possible to give that final vintage touch to your sounds.
The KORG OPSIX offers 3 sections (usable simultaneously) of 30 effects. From classic signal processors like compressor, equalizer, chorus, flanger, phaser, and stereo delay to more distinctive, unique effects: rotary speaker, grain shifter, and reverb.
The spectrum analyzer integrated into the KORG OPSIX is a fundamental tool for visualizing FM synthesis. It shows the level of each frequency band in real time so that you can see the distribution and harmonic changes introduced by the modulations. An oscilloscope is also present, showing the final waveform reproduced by the synthesis chain.
The 16 buttons located to the right of the lower part of the panel, just above the keyboard, when operating as steps for the sequencer, light up green, evoking the classic colors of FM synths. In the integrated polyphonic sequencer, up to 6 notes can be recorded for each step, and the velocity, gate time, and length of each note can be modified. Furthermore, the motion sequencer of the KORG OPSIX allows for the recording of automations of 6 distinct parameters, whether constant for the duration of the phrase or programmed on individual steps to create drastic changes that will result in actual rhythms.
When you want to experiment, simply use the Randomize function already familiar to Wavestate users.
KORG OPSIX entitles users to free software licenses for "Ozone Elements" by iZotope, "Reason Lite," and various virtual instruments produced by Korg and other brands. Additionally, you will be entitled to a "Skoove" subscription: an application dedicated to interactive music lessons.

Specifications

• Keyboard: 37 velocity-sensitive keys (attack and release)
• Maximum Polyphony: 32 voices; or 24 voices depending on settings
• Sound Generation System: Altered FM
• Structure: 6 operators, 1 filter, 3 EGs, 3 LFOs, 3 effects, step sequencer and arpeggiator
• Algorithms: 40 presets + user algorithm (unique for each program)
• Operators: 5 modes (FM, Ring Mod, Filter, Filter FM, Wave Folder)
• 21 Oscillator Waveforms: Sine, Sine 12bit, Sine 8bit, Triangle, Saw, Saw HD, Square, Square HD, Additive Saw3, Additive Sqr3, Additive Tri3, Additive 12345, Additive 1+2, Additive 1+3, Additive 1+4, Additive 1+5, Additive 1+6, Additive 1+7, Additive 1+8, Noise S/H, Noise White.
• 11 Filter Types: LPF 12, LPF 24, LPF MS-20, LPF POLY6, HPF 12, HPF 24, HPF MS-20, BPF 6, BPF 12, BRF 6, BRF 12)
• 3 Envelopes: ADSR
• LFO (23 waveforms): Triangle, Saw Down, Saw Up, Square, Sine, Sample&Hold, Guitar, Exp. Triangle, Exp. Saw Down, Exp. Saw Up, Step4 Triangle, Step6 Triangle, Step4 Saw Down, Step6 Saw Down, StepRnd:Time, StepRnd:Lvl&Time, StepRnd:Level, Random:Time, Random:Lvl&Time, Triangle + , Saw Down + , Saw Up + , Square +)
• Virtual Patch: 12 routings
• Effects Processor (30 types): Chorus, Unison Ensemble, Phaser, Phaser (BPM) , Auto Pan, Auto Pan (BPM), Flanger, Flanger (BPM) , Rotary Speaker, Auto Wah, Exciter, Enhancer, LFO Filter, 3-Band EQ, Distortion, Guitar Amp, Decimator, Grain Shifter, Master Limiter, Compressor, Delay, Delay (BPM) , Autopan Dly, Autopan Dly (BPM), Tape Echo, Tape Echo (BPM) , Early Reflection, Reverb, Shimmer Reverb, Spring Reverb)
• Sequencer: 16-step Step Sequencer (6 notes per step), Motion Sequencer (6 lines for parameter automation)
• Arpeggiator: 7 patterns (MANUAL, UP, DOWN, ALT1, ALT2, RANDOM, TRIGGER)
• Programs (sounds): 500 (250 preset and 250 user)
• FAVORITE: 64 (16 Slot × 4 banks)
• Controllers: MODULATION and PITCH wheels, RATIO OP 6 knobs, LEVEL OP 6 sliders, 6 DATA ENTRY knobs
• Audio Outputs: L (mono) and R on 6.3mm (1/4”) TRS Jack sockets
• Headphone Output: 6.3mm (1/4”) TRS Jack (stereo)
• MIDI Connections: MIDI IN & OUT DIN; MIDI via USB type “B”
• Pedal Input: Damper Jack 6.3mm (1/4”); half-damper NOT supported
• Power Supply: Adapter (included) AC KORG KA-390 (DC12V)
• Power Consumption: 5 W
• Included: AC Adapter (KORG KA-390)
• Compatible Accessories (sold separately): DS-1H damper pedal, PS-1 pedal switch, PS-3 pedal switch