KORG VOLCA DRUM Drum and Percussion Synthesizer

Drum and Percussion Sound Synthesizer

KORG VOLCA DRUM is a drum and percussion sound synthesizer that joins the popular and acclaimed Volca Kick and Beats. The Volca series is known for its unique sounds. From analog to digital PCM and FM, the Volca synth series packs unique sounds into its various models. A rhythm machine with a distinctive sound character now joins the series.
It all starts with a simple waveform that passes through a wave folder and an overdrive, which respectively add harmonics and distortion, before transitioning into the waveguide resonator effect. The 6-part DSP-based synthesis engine was designed following a completely different philosophy compared to conventional drum machines, to generate a wide range of sounds playable from the essential Volca-style sequencer.
KORG VOLCA DRUM is a digital percussion synthesizer with a 6-part, 2-layer structure.
The term "digital" is often associated with synthesizers that reproduce PCM samples of kick, snare, or cymbals, but KORG VOLCA DRUM generates drum sounds through a DSP based on analog physical models, on oscillators that generate sine, sawtooth, and noise waveforms. By applying various modifications to these waveforms, a wide range of percussive sounds can be reproduced, ranging from realistic to experimental, without necessarily limiting yourself to drum sounds.
Each of the 6 parts consists of two layers, and there are no restrictions on the type of sound that can be generated; each part therefore has the same specifications. The generated sound can be freely assigned to one of the 6 parts, without the limitations typical of traditional drum machines. A kit consists of the 6 parts and the relative waveguide resonator effect settings. 16 kits can be saved in the instrument's internal memory, which include the 10 factory preset kits.
Each of the 6 parts consists of two layers. For each layer, the user can select from 5 different waveforms (including sine, sawtooth, and HPF noise), choose three types of modulation, for pitch and the amplitude envelope generator, all optimized for percussive sounds. The layer parameters can be modified individually or simultaneously, and the user can also assign the same sound to the two layers in order to obtain a fuller and more incisive sound.
The waveform can be varied by applying bit reduction to make it more "gritty," adjusting the intensity of the wave folder circuit to introduce complex harmonics, and using overdrive to add distortion. In this way, distinctive sounds can be generated from this synthesis engine. Once the sound is specified, the balance of the parts can be adjusted by modifying their timing, steps, pan, pre-mix gain, and send to the effect.
The effects section of the KORG VOLCA DRUM includes a physical model-based waveguide resonator, which adds sympathetic resonances to the starting sound. You can choose between two different waveguides: "tube," which adds resonances usually generated by cylindrical objects such as drums or pipes, or "string," which introduces metallic resonances typical of strings. The three potentiometers located in the center of the panel allow you to set the DECAY (attenuation over time), BODY (sound character), and TUNE (pitch). Setting the TUNE parameter to low values generates a sound behavior similar to a delay effect.
KORG VOLCA DRUMS features a 16-step sequencer with a wide range of automatable parameters. The 16-step sequencer is essential for improvisation. You can create your 16 patterns using the 16 keys that correspond to the 16 steps. In addition to step recording, the sequencer supports real-time recording to play and record a pattern while the sequence is looped. The Pattern Chaining function allows you to play different patterns in succession, up to a maximum of 16 for a sequence composed of a total of 256 steps.
In addition to simply playing a pattern, you can use the motion sequence function to memorize the movements of the potentiometers (automations) during real-time recording and then reproduce them along with the sequence. You can memorize up to 69 different parameters. This will be useful both while creating your pattern and during live performances. The instrument's internal memory stores up to 16 program sequences, which include: 16-step patterns, motion sequences, and the kit used.
KORG VOLCA DRUM features an Active Step function that allows you to skip one or more steps during sequence playback. You can generate DJ-style effects, from simple loop-based to more particular and unusual irregular rhythms, including polyrhythmic ones thanks to the possibility of applying different settings to each individual part. Not just a sequencer, but a real additional tool in live performances. The Step Jump function is also available, which allows you to jump to the selected/pressed step during sequence playback. By using these functions during editing or in real-time, you can create impactful, fun effects that will make your performance even more dynamic.
The step slice function allows you to play steps in quick succession, such as drum rolls; a potentiometer allows you to vary the number of slices and insert a roll at the end or during the playback of a pattern.
KORG VOLCA DRUM is equipped with an Accent function that allows you to assign accents to emphasize certain steps. This function does not use a simple on/off setting, but rather provides 16 different dynamic levels that allow you to make the rhythmic groove even more engaging.
KORG VOLCA DRUM offers a choke function through which you can specify which parts will have priority over others played simultaneously; for example, the alternation between a part that hosts an open hi-hat and one that reproduces a closed hi-hat.
KORG VOLCA DRUM offers two functions that automatically and randomly change the sound assigned to the layers by applying variations to the steps, slice, accents, and settings of the selected individual parts. By using these functions, you can apply rhythmic changes and evolutions during a performance, which allows you to break away from the classic repetitiveness that has always characterized and often limited traditional drum machines.

Specifications

Keyboard

• Multi-touch trigger pad/Step key

Sound Synthesis

• Type: Digital synthesis
• Maximum polyphony: 6
• Structure: 6 parts (for each part 2 oscillators, pitch modulator and amp envelope), waveguide resonator effect.
• Kits: 16 (settings for 6 parts + waveguide resonator); Kits No.1/No.10 are factory presets.
• Programs: 16 (Sequence pattern, Motion sequence, Kit No.); Programs No.1/No.10 are factory presets.

Sequencer

• Number of parts: 6
• Number of Steps: 16 (pattern chain capability)
• Recordable patterns: 16

Connections

• Audio Output: 3.5mm stereo mini jack
• Sync In: 3.5mm monaural mini jack; Max Level 20V
• Sync Out: 3.5mm monaural mini jack; Max Level 5V
• MIDI: 5-pin DIN MIDI In format

Power Supply

• Battery: 10 hours of autonomy (using alkaline batteries)
• Power supply: 6 AA type batteries; or Korg "KA-350" adapter (not included)

Dimensions

• W x D x H: 193 × 115 × 39 mm
• Weight (excluding batteries): 3.70 Kg