KORG Collection 5 is a comprehensive suite of software instruments that brings together meticulously crafted digital recreations of KORG’s most iconic synthesizers and keyboards. This collection offers musicians, producers, and sound designers access to a vast array of classic and modern sounds, all within a convenient software format.
The KORG Collection 5 includes 11 instruments: ARP ODYSSEY, MS-20, PolySix, Mono/Poly, M1, TRITON, WAVESTATION, MiniKORG 700S, Prophecy, TRINITY, and ModWave. Each instrument is a faithful reproduction of its hardware counterpart, capturing the nuances and character that made these synthesizers legendary in their own right.
• Pros:
• Authentic sound reproduction of classic KORG instruments
• Extensive library of presets and sound-shaping capabilities
• Seamless integration with modern DAWs
• Regular updates and improvements
• Cost-effective alternative to acquiring hardware versions
• Cons:
• Significant system resources required for optimal performance
• Learning curve for users unfamiliar with the original hardware
KORG, founded in 1962 in Japan, has been a pioneer in the electronic musical instrument industry for decades. The company has consistently pushed the boundaries of sound synthesis and instrument design, creating numerous iconic instruments that have shaped the sound of popular music across genres. The KORG Collection 5 is a testament to this rich history, offering a software-based archive of the company’s most influential creations.
One of the standout features of the KORG Collection 5 is its attention to detail in recreating the original hardware. The developers have gone to great lengths to capture not just the sound, but also the behavior and quirks of each instrument. This level of authenticity extends to the user interface, where each virtual instrument closely resembles its physical counterpart, making the transition from hardware to software more intuitive for experienced users.
The ARP ODYSSEY, for instance, offers three different filter types corresponding to the various iterations of the original synthesizer. Users can switch between these filters to access different tonal characteristics, providing a level of versatility that would be impossible with a single hardware unit. Similarly, the MS-20 emulation includes both the early and late filter revisions, allowing users to explore the subtle differences between these sought-after variants.
The TRITON, a workstation that defined the sound of countless hit records in the late 90s and early 2000s, is faithfully reproduced with its extensive PCM library and powerful synthesis engine. The software version expands on the original by offering increased polyphony and a more intuitive interface for patch creation and editing.
For those interested in vector synthesis, the WAVESTATION in KORG Collection 5 offers an enhanced version of the original’s innovative wave sequencing technology. The software implementation makes it easier to visualize and edit complex wave sequences, opening up new possibilities for sound design that were challenging to achieve on the hardware. The inclusion of more recent instruments like the ModWave demonstrates KORG’s commitment to bridging their legacy with contemporary sound design techniques. The ModWave’s wavetable synthesis engine, combined with kaoss physics-based modulation, provides a modern twist on classic KORG sounds.
In terms of value for money, the KORG Collection 5 offers exceptional bang for the buck. Considering the cost of acquiring and maintaining the hardware versions of these instruments, the software collection represents a significant saving. Moreover, the convenience of having all these instruments in a single package, ready to use within a modern production environment, cannot be overstated.
When compared to similar products on the market, such as Arturia’s V Collection or Roland’s Cloud service, the KORG Collection 5 holds its own. While these competitors offer emulations of instruments from various manufacturers, KORG’s focus on their own legacy allows for a deeper, more authentic recreation of each instrument. The trade-off is a more limited selection of emulated brands, but for KORG enthusiasts, this specialization is a strength rather than a weakness.
• Who would benefit most from this product:
• Electronic music producers seeking authentic vintage synth sounds
• Film and game composers requiring a diverse palette of electronic timbres
• Sound designers exploring complex synthesis techniques
• KORG hardware owners looking to expand their sonic possibilities
• Music educators teaching the history and application of synthesizer technology
The KORG Collection 5 is a powerful tool that successfully bridges the gap between classic hardware synthesizers and modern software production environments. It offers an impressive level of authenticity in both sound and user experience, making it an invaluable resource for musicians and producers across various genres. While it does require a reasonably powerful computer to run smoothly, especially when using multiple instances, the collection’s versatility and sound quality more than compensate for this drawback.
The attention to detail in recreating each instrument is commendable, from the gritty, aggressive tones of the MS-20 to the lush, evolving textures of the WAVESTATION. The collection not only captures the essence of these iconic instruments but also enhances their functionality with features that take advantage of the software format.
For those who have worked with the original hardware, the KORG Collection 5 will feel like reuniting with old friends, now enhanced with modern conveniences. For newcomers, it provides an accessible entry point to explore the sounds that have shaped decades of electronic music. Whether you’re crafting cutting-edge electronic tracks, scoring for film and television, or simply exploring the rich history of synthesizer technology, the KORG Collection 5 offers a wealth of sonic possibilities that will inspire creativity and enhance any production setup.