Once again, Korg releases a new synth that broadens the ever-present smiles of the gear nerds at Klundert, the Wavestate MKII!
Korg has listened carefully to the now very decent community of Wavestate users, taking the already vastly expanded Wavestate to the next level. This time it comes in 3 different versions, all in a particularly solid and stylish new jacket. Yes!
Going back in time
Korg's now legendary Wavestation featured wave sequencing for the first time, a way to turn raw samples into sounds previously never heard from a synthesizer. This, of course, brought endless new possibilities in genres such as New Wave and Ambient, for example. Years later, in the top-of-the-line Oasys and Kronos models, wave sequencing was developed even further and expanded the unique spectrum of rich, constantly evolving pads and rhythmic sequences.
In 2020, Korg released the acclaimed Wavestate containing the almost completely redeveloped Wave-Sequencing 2.0. With this, Korg designed this technology for a new generation of musicians, producers and composers. More possibilities in expanded, changing and evolving sounds with more hands-on control. Thus, by no means a reissue of the nostalgic Wavestation, but a completely new and modern device. At the same time, Korg came out with the Wavestate Native Software (available separately for Wavestate users at a discount) which makes the Wavestate fully applicable in your DAW and allows you to switch effortlessly between software and hardware workflows.
Wavestate MKII
Apart from the sleek new look, this new machine has an expanded polyphony of 96 stereo voices. It is also fully compatible with the previous Wavestate, the Wavestate Native Software and the new Wavestate SE. This synth is the compact version with 37 fullsize keys, again easy to transport and implement in any stage set-up or studio/desktop setup.
Once again, the new Wavestate is loaded with knobs and other controls that especially invite you to explore new sounds. Filters, envelopes, LFOs and effects are all under your fingertips on the front panel. Eight programmable MOD knobs, pitch bend and modulation wheels and Korg's unique vector joystick add extra dimensions and more real-time expression. Virtually all of these elements can also be modulated so you can go even deeper in your sound design. If you're at a loss for words, you can use a special button to have the Wavestate MKII roll a virtual die that allows you to randomize the entire sound or elements of it. It also has an arsenal of effects on board and you can add up to 4GB of your own samples. You can create these yourself in Korg's free Sample Builder App, and there are also entire libraries of third-party samples available now!
For the musician or producer who is not afraid to delve into the caverns of synthesis and build and discover entirely new sounds, this exceptionally comprehensive and inspiring synth is the right choice. If you are just getting started when it comes to synthesizers, then this might be a bit too intimidating a device.
What's on the Wavestate MKII?
- Wave Sequencing 2.0
- extensive modulation with hands-on controls
- import up to 4GB of your own samples
- modeled filters such as the MS-20 and Polysix
- 96 stereo voices
- 4 layers with vector control
- 14 simultaneous effects
- setlists and smooth sound transitions
- randomizer
- free Editor/Librarian and Sample Builder software for Mac and Windows.
- compact and sleek new design
- 37 fullsize keys
Specifications:
- keyboard: 37 fullsize keys
- sound generating system: Wave Sequencing 2.0
- maximum polyphony: 96 stereo voices
- sounds: 261 performances, 799 programs and 1,042 wave sequences
- layer: Program, Arpeggiator, Key/Velocity Zones
- program: Wave Sequence, Filter, Amp, Pre FX, Mod FX, Delay
- filters: 2-pole LPF, 2-pole HPF, 2-pole BPF, 2-pole Band Reject, 4-pole LPF, 4-pole HPF, 4-pole BPF, 4-pole Band Reject, Multi Filter,MS-20 LPF, MS-20 HPF, Polysix
- controllers: Mod Wheel, Pitch Wheel, Vector Joystick X/Y, 8x Program/Performance Mod Knobs
- Pre FX: Decimator, Graphic EQ, Guitar Amp, Modern Compressor, Parametric EQ, Red Compressor, Ring Modulator, Tremolo, Wave Shaper
- Mod FX: Black Chorus/Flanger, Black Phase, CX-3 Vibrato Chorus, EP Chorus, Harmonic Chorus, Modern Chorus, Modern Phaser,Orange Phase, Polysix Ensemble, Small Phase, Talking Modulator, Vintage Chorus, Vintage Flanger, Vintage/Custom Wah, Vox Wah
- delay: L/C/R Delay, Multiband Mod Delay, Reverse Delay, Stereo/Cross Delay, Tape Echo
- reverb: Early Reflections, Overb
- inputs/outputs: Headphone (6.3 mm stereo phone jack), OUTPUT L/MONO and R (impedance-balanced 6.3 mm TRS phone jacks),DAMPER (6.3 mm phone jack), MIDI IN and OUT connectors, USB B port
- dimensions (W x H x D): 565 x 338 x 92mm
- weight: 2.9 kg
- includes: AC adapter
