Korg Kross 88-Key Synthesizer Workstation Keyboard

The KORG KROSS 88-Key Music Workstation is a lightweight, performance-focused synthesizer workstation designed for musicians who need a full 88-key piano feel combined with professional sound design, sequencing, and live performance tools. Built around Korg’s EDS-i sound engine, it delivers a broad sonic palette ranging from acoustic pianos and electric pianos to synths, drums, and cinematic textures.

The 88-key version is specifically designed for players who require a realistic piano-style layout with weighted hammer action while still benefiting from the portability and workflow of a modern workstation. It is widely used by live performers, music producers, and keyboardists who need an all-in-one instrument for stage and studio use.

88-Key Natural Weighted Hammer Action Keyboard

The KROSS 88 features a full-size Natural Weighted Hammer Action (NH) keyboard, engineered to replicate the response of an acoustic piano. The lower keys feel heavier while the upper keys are lighter, supporting proper technique development and expressive performance dynamics.

• 88-key NH weighted hammer action keyboard
• Velocity-sensitive response (no aftertouch)
• Full piano range: A0 to C8
• Designed for realistic acoustic piano feel in a workstation format

EDS-i Sound Engine with Professional Sound Library

At the core of the KROSS is Korg’s EDS-i (Enhanced Definition Synthesis – integrated) sound engine, delivering high-quality multisampled instruments with strong performance efficiency. It includes a large PCM library optimized for live use and sound layering.

The sound set includes acoustic grand pianos, electric pianos, organs, strings, brass, synth leads, pads, and drum kits, making it suitable for multiple genres including pop, rock, jazz, EDM, and cinematic scoring.

• EDS-i sound engine with integrated effects processing
• 80-note polyphony (typical single mode usage)
• Approximately 112 MB PCM sample memory
• 421 multisamples and 890 drum samples

Full Music Workstation Capabilities

Unlike a standard digital piano, the KROSS 88 is a complete music production workstation. It includes a 16-track MIDI sequencer, step sequencer, arpeggiator, drum tracks, and onboard recording features, allowing users to compose full arrangements directly on the instrument without external software.

Its workflow is designed for fast idea capture and live performance flexibility, making it a powerful tool for both songwriting and stage use.

• 16-track MIDI sequencer
• Built-in step sequencer (Electribe-derived workflow)
• Arpeggiator and drum track engine
• Real-time performance and recording tools

Performance and Live Features

The KROSS 88 is optimized for live musicians with features that support quick sound switching, layering, and split configurations. It also includes a favorites system for instant recall of frequently used sounds during performance.

A microphone input with effects processing enables vocal integration and even vocoder-style performance setups, expanding its usability beyond keyboard playing alone.

• Layer and split sound modes
• Favorites function for instant sound recall
• Mic input with effects processing
• Performance-ready sound switching system

Portable Design with Battery Operation

Despite being an 88-key weighted workstation, the KROSS is designed for portability. It features a lightweight chassis for its class and can operate on either AC power or six AA batteries, making it suitable for street performance, rehearsals, and mobile setups.

This portability makes it a rare combination of full-size weighted keyboard and gig-ready mobility.

• Lightweight workstation chassis (~12.4 kg)
• Battery-powered operation (6 × AA batteries)
• AC adapter support
• Designed for stage, rehearsal, and mobile use

Connectivity and Recording Integration

The KROSS 88 includes USB connectivity for MIDI integration with DAWs and external software, along with audio recording capabilities for capturing performances directly. It also supports external audio input for mixing external sources.

• USB MIDI connectivity
• Stereo audio recording and playback
• Audio input for external devices
• Headphone output for silent practice

Conclusion

The KORG KROSS 88-Key Music Workstation is a versatile all-in-one instrument combining weighted piano action, a deep professional sound engine, and full production tools in a highly portable design. It is ideal for performers, producers, and keyboardists who want both expressive piano capability and advanced workstation functionality in a single instrument.