Korg Monotron Analog Ribbon Synthesizer

Monotron 16-Key Synthesizer

"Go-Anywhere Analog" was the theme behind the remarkable battery-powered and palm-sized Korg analog synthesizer dubbed the Monotron. Best of all, they're a blast to play; equipped with a ribbon keyboard and a live, ready-to-be tweaked front panel offering five knobs and a single switch. This simple operation and ease of use invites hours of enjoyment and musical exploration.

Casual users and gadget mavens will quickly enjoy performing melodies, DJs can create dazzling effects on stage, while established players can add analog muscle to their performance--the possibilities are virtually endless.

Small size allows you to enjoy and share with your friends anywhere, anytime. View larger

VCO + VCF = Modular Synthesis Building Blocks

The basic analog sound-building circuit is radically simple: one voltage-controlled oscillator and one voltage-controlled filter. As a result, the process of sound creation is intuitive, and instantly understandable. And it's tons of fun. Monotron provides the joy of sonic creativity that's at the heart of analog synthesis.

Uses the highly acclaimed VCF circuit as Korg's MS-10 and MS-20 synthesizers. View larger

Connect to a Kaossilator, guitar, or digital audio player through the input jack. View larger

Classic Korg Filtering

The distinctive tone of an analog filter (VCF) can dramatically alter and enrich the sound. The Monotron Series uses the same highly acclaimed VCF circuit as Korg's classic MS-10 and MS-20 semi modular synthesizers. Originally released over 30 years ago, these instruments are still coveted today for their aggressive, dynamic filters. The VCF Cutoff knob sets the frequency or tone of the filter; the VCF Peak knob adds emphasis. A powerful filter is an essential aspect of any analog synthesizer, applying dramatic tonal changes to the sound, and projecting an intense personality that will stand out in any live performance.

Fully-Patchable Filter

The input jack (AUX input) built into each Monotron's compact body allow you to place any audio source into the signal path, directly before the analog filter. This provides a great way to connect a Kaossilator, a guitar, or a digital audio player to the Monotron Series and enjoy tone-bending filter effects.

Versatile LFO Provides Audio and Visual Excitement

The LFO (Low Frequency Oscillator) can affect either the oscillator pitch or the filter cutoff. Both the speed and the intensity are individually adjustable, so you can create anything from a gentle vibrato to swooping tone changes of galactic proportions. As you turn the LFO Rate knob--featuring an embedded LED--the speed of the modulation effect and the speed of the blinking LED will change in tandem.

Ribbon Controller Keyboard Offers Easy Expression

Borrowing the enjoyment of performing with a simple touch from Korg's wildly popular KAOSS products, the Monotron's ribbon controller keyboard takes this ease of use even farther. Simple finger gestures can produce expressive effects such as vibrato and glide.