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Description

The Korg 01/W is a classic synthesizer that has left a significant mark in the world of electronic music production. Renowned for its AI2 synthesis engine, this keyboard offers a rich palette of sounds that cater to both vintage enthusiasts and contemporary musicians. The 01/W is equipped with 61 velocity-sensitive keys, providing expressive control that is perfect for live performances as well as studio work.

With a vast array of onboard sounds, including lush strings, dynamic pianos, and ethereal pads, this synthesizer is designed to inspire creativity. The in-built sequencer is another standout feature, allowing you to craft complex arrangements directly on the device. The Korg 01/W is highly regarded for its deep programmability, enabling users to customize patches and effects to suit their unique style.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a budding musician, the Korg 01/W offers a versatile toolset that can adapt to any musical context. Its durable construction ensures it can handle the rigors of touring while maintaining reliable performance over time.

Key Features:

  • AI2 synthesis engine for a diverse range of sounds
  • 61 velocity-sensitive keys
  • Extensive onboard sound library
  • Built-in sequencer for creating complex arrangements
  • Deep programmability with customizable patches and effects
  • Rugged design suitable for live performances and touring

Product specs

Brand Korg
Model 01/W
Year 1990s
Categories Digital Synthesizers, Workstation Keyboards
Analog / Digital Digital
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Number of Keys 61 Keys
Polyphony 32 Voices

FAQs

What type of synthesis does the Korg 01/W use?

The Korg 01/W uses digital synthesis with Korg's Advanced Integrated (AI2) synthesis technology, which provides a wide range of sounds and complex textures, ideal for various musical genres.

How many voices of polyphony does the Korg 01/W offer?

The Korg 01/W offers 32 voices of polyphony, allowing for rich and layered soundscapes suitable for both live performances and studio work.

Does the Korg 01/W have full-size keys?

Yes, the Korg 01/W features full-size keys with synth action, providing a responsive and comfortable playing experience for keyboardists.

Can the Korg 01/W be integrated into a MIDI setup?

Absolutely, the Korg 01/W includes MIDI Input, Output, and Through ports, making it easy to integrate into any MIDI-based studio or live performance setup.

What is the key count on the Korg 01/W?

The Korg 01/W is equipped with 61 keys, offering a wide range for performing various musical pieces and compositions.

Is the Korg 01/W suitable for creating complex compositions?

Yes, as a workstation keyboard, the Korg 01/W is designed for creating complex compositions, providing powerful sequencing capabilities and a diverse sound palette.

DKS SYNTH LAB

DKS SYNTH LAB

KORG 01/w Demo Part 1 [Performance] | No Talking |

Video thumbnail for KORG 01/w Demo Part 1 [Performance] | No Talking | by DKS SYNTH LAB

KORG 01/w Demo Part 1 [Performance] | No Talking |

DKS SYNTH LAB

DKS SYNTH LAB

Video thumbnail for Korg 01/W - teaser and first contact by synthlegends

Korg 01/W - teaser and first contact

synthlegends

synthlegends

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Korg 01/W.

Setup and maintenance

  • Internal battery replacement requires removing about 17 screws for access; a CR2032 coin battery is used.

    Source
  • Display brightness often diminishes in older units, necessitating replacement.

    Source
  • Checking for a 'dead battery' warning upon startup is crucial to avoid empty memory issues.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The 01/W has known issues with button reliability, often needing replacement, particularly in the display area.

    Source
  • Ball-type cover switches from the M1 were replaced by square-type switches on the 01/W, which should be checked for functionality.

    Source
  • Test all outputs, including 1, 2, 3, 4, and headphone jacks, for sound clarity and absence of noise.

    Source

Other

  • Running hands over the unit can help detect physical defects more effectively than visual inspection alone.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Nathan McCree uses Korg 01/W

Nathan McCree

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Sound On Sound

Although the soundtrack consisted of CD audio, budgetary constraints forced Nathan to produce it in a MIDI studio: "I've never worked with an orchestra and had just a couple of synths — nothing spectacular. I had a Korg O1/W, an Ensoniq SQ1 Plus and a Roland D20. It was a bit of a bodge job, but it worked." - stated in the interview from soundonsound.

See how Andrea De Paoli uses Korg 01/W

Andrea De Paoli

Keyboardist

Labÿrinth

...
Verified via Audiofader - RecMixMasterSoundDesign

Andrea De Paoli, a keyboardist known for his work with Labyrinth, confirmed using the Korg 01/W for acoustic sounds both in the studio and on stage since 1997. This information is provided by Andrea De Paoli himself in an article on Audiofader, titled "Rubrica: Keyboard setup, Andrea De Paoli."

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Korg 01/W, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1
Akai S3000XL
Akai S3000XL Audio Samplers
1
Alesis Midiverb III
Alesis Midiverb III Effects Processors
1

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