Korg opsix Altered FM Synthesizer
Brand
KORG
Electronic music producers, film composers, and live keyboard performers require a versatile synthesizer that delivers the glassy digital clarity, deep bass punch, and metallic movement of classic FM synthesis without forcing them to navigate confusing, spreadsheet-like text menus. Vintage 6-operator digital synthesizers are notoriously tedious to program, while simple software apps often lack the tactile, physical controls needed to tweak sounds smoothly during a live set. The Korg opsix Altered FM Synthesizer completely reinvents digital sound design. By packing an innovative 6-operator multi-engine, a color-coded physical mixer panel, a high-performance analog-modeled filter section, and a motion-capture sequencer into a sleek, compact 37-note keybed, this synthesizer delivers incredible sonic flexibility with true knob-per-function immediacy.
The KORG opsix Altered FM Synthesizer represents a massive leap forward in FM (Frequency Modulation) synthesis, reimagining the technology to be more accessible, expressive, and powerful than ever before. While it draws inspiration from classic FM instruments, the opsix features a unique "Altered" architecture that allows for sound design far beyond traditional tones. With its intuitive hands-on control, massive polyphony, and complex internal operators, it is the ultimate tool for sound designers and keyboardists looking to craft everything from lush, cinematic pads to aggressive, jagged leads.
Altered FM Architecture
At the heart of the opsix is an "Altered FM" sound engine that goes far beyond standard sine-wave FM. Each of the six operators can be switched to various waveforms, including sawtooth, square, noise, and even user-sampled wavetables. This allows you to combine FM, subtractive, semi-modular, and additive synthesis techniques in a single patch. With its color-coded operator mixer and dedicated edit knobs, the opsix makes the notoriously complex process of FM programming visual, intuitive, and immediate.
The opsix is also packed with three high-performance effect blocks, which can be routed in a variety of ways to polish your sound. From classic chorus and flanger to sophisticated reverbs and distortions, these effects are designed to push the boundaries of what FM synthesis can sound like.
Advanced Modulation and Playability
Beyond its core engine, the opsix features a powerful 16-step sequencer with advanced parameter automation. You can record up to six notes per step, change voicing, time stretching, and swing, effectively turning the opsix into a rhythmic powerhouse. With its light, velocity-sensitive keyboard and integrated arpeggiator, the opsix is as much a performance instrument as it is a sound design laboratory.
Key Features and Consumer Benefits
- Altered FM Engine: Six operators support multiple waveform types for unprecedented sound design flexibility.
- Hands-On Interface: Dedicated knobs and sliders make FM synthesis visual, tactile, and easy to master.
- Deep Effect Processing: Three high-quality effect slots with 30 types to add depth and texture to your patches.
- Advanced Sequencer: 16-step polyphonic sequencer with motion-sequencing capabilities for evolving soundscapes.
- Massive Modulation: Three EG (Envelope Generators) and three LFOs per patch offer deep control over every aspect of your sound.
- Modern Design: Sleek, lightweight chassis with a high-visibility OLED display for precise editing.
Technical Specifications
| Specification Feature | Product Detail Value |
|---|---|
| Official Hardware Model | opsix (Altered FM Synthesizer) |
| Synthesis Method | Altered FM Synthesis (6 Operators) |
| Polyphony | 32 Voices |
| Connectivity | Stereo 1/4" Output, Headphone Output, MIDI I/O, USB (Class Compliant) |
| Keyboard | 37 Keys (Velocity and Release-Velocity sensitive) |
| Power Requirements | AC Adapter (Included) |
| Total Dimensions | 565 mm (W) x 338 mm (D) x 90 mm (H) | 22.24" x 13.31" x 3.54" |
| Net Hardware Weight | 2.9 kg | 6.39 lbs |
| Keyboard Keys | 37 |
|---|---|
| Brands | KORG |
