Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $250

Budget/Beginner

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Dive into the realm of synthesis with the Korg Electribe EA-1, a compact powerhouse designed for the modern musician. This sleek synthesizer blends analog modeling with a hands-on interface, making it a breeze to sculpt your sound on the fly. Whether you're crafting infectious bass lines or intricate drum patterns, the EA-1 stands as your creative companion, ready to breathe life into your musical visions without overwhelming you with complexity.

Key Features:

  • Analog modeling synthesis engine delivers rich, authentic sounds.
  • Intuitive interface encourages experimentation and allows for quick adjustments.
  • Ideal for live performance with its streamlined design and versatile sound creation.
  • Compatible with a wide range of music genres, from electronic to indie.

Product specs

Brand Korg
Model Electribe-A EA-1 Analog Modeling Synthesizer
Finish Silver
Year 1999
Categories Desktop Synths, Digital Synthesizers
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Polyphony 2 Voices

FAQs

Is the Korg Electribe EA-1 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Korg Electribe EA-1 is well-suited for live performances due to its compact size and intuitive interface, allowing for real-time control over sound parameters and sequence manipulation.

What type of synthesis does the Korg Electribe EA-1 use?

The Korg Electribe EA-1 uses analog modeling synthesis, which digitally emulates the sound characteristics of classic analog synthesizers.

How many voices of polyphony does the Korg Electribe EA-1 have?

The Korg Electribe EA-1 has 2 voices of polyphony, allowing you to play two notes simultaneously.

Can the Korg Electribe EA-1 be integrated with other MIDI devices?

Yes, the Korg Electribe EA-1 features MIDI Input, Output, and Through, making it easy to integrate with other MIDI-compatible devices for expanded control and synchronization.

What are some standout features of the Korg Electribe EA-1's sound engine?

The Korg Electribe EA-1's sound engine is known for its robust analog modeling capabilities, offering a wide range of classic synth sounds and real-time parameter adjustments for dynamic sound shaping.

3rdStoreyChemist

3rdStoreyChemist

Korg EA-1 Electribe

Video thumbnail for Korg EA-1 Electribe by 3rdStoreyChemist

Korg EA-1 Electribe

3rdStoreyChemist

3rdStoreyChemist

Video thumbnail for Bad Gear - Korg Electribe EA-1 - Worst Of The Tribe??? by AudioPilz

Bad Gear - Korg Electribe EA-1 - Worst Of The Tribe???

AudioPilz

AudioPilz

Video thumbnail for KORG EA-1 Electribe - Factory Presets Demo by wolfgang S vukan

KORG EA-1 Electribe - Factory Presets Demo

wolfgang S vukan

wolfgang S vukan

Video thumbnail for Korg Electribe EA-1: FAT FAT FAT sounds! by Gearfacts

Korg Electribe EA-1: FAT FAT FAT sounds!

Gearfacts

Gearfacts

Video thumbnail for Analog storm! The Korg Electribe EA-1 elbows the others out of its way by Gearfacts

Analog storm! The Korg Electribe EA-1 elbows the others out of its way

Gearfacts

Gearfacts

Video thumbnail for Korg Electribe ea-1 by Anton Anru

Korg Electribe ea-1

Anton Anru

Anton Anru

Video thumbnail for Korg Electribe - EA-1 - Oldschool Tutorial - #VHS by KlangDing

Korg Electribe - EA-1 - Oldschool Tutorial - #VHS

KlangDing

KlangDing

Reviews

PROS

  • Easy to use for spontaneous creativity

  • Iconic step edit and song modes

  • Effective for motion sequencing

  • MIDI Through feature appreciated

  • Quick editing for live performances

  • Versatile for leads and bass in compositions

  • Adds character to Drum & Bass productions

  • Reliable, solid build quality

  • Unique, gritty sound quality

  • Complements with external effects well

CONS

  • Sound described as "tin can" quality

  • Learning curve for saving patches

  • Input knobs lack fine control

  • Missing accent function limits expression

  • Programming can be somewhat complicated

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Korg Electribe EA-1.

Features and functionality

  • The EA-1 features a unique trancegate effect when using its audio input in combination with the sequencer, adding depth to its sound capabilities.

    Source
  • The EA-1 can sequence two MIDI channels, but not polyphonically, limiting its use for controlling multiple polyphonic synths simultaneously.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The EA-1 and ER-1 were originally designed to be used together, enhancing their functionality and sound when paired.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners find the EA-1 excels in creating acid and trance sounds, though its dated interface may limit broader applications.

    Source
  • The EA-1's delay effect is praised for staying in tempo with external sequencers, useful for synchronized setups.

    Source
  • The EA-1 is effectively used for processing other synths or audio signals with its filter and delay/chorus effects, adding texture to existing sounds.

    Source

User experience

  • EA-1's filter cutoff and resonance knobs have a small usable range, affecting its versatility in sound design.

    Source
  • Some owners integrate the EA-1 with more expensive gear, finding it holds its own in terms of sound character, despite being less smooth than analog synths.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The EA-1 is often seen as a secondary synth due to its limited sound design capabilities but remains appealing for its specific acid sound.

    Source
  • Despite its divisive sound, the EA-1 is considered a good value for its MIDI sequencing and effects processing capabilities, often seen as worth more than its resale price.

    Source

Build quality

  • Owners report that the EA-1's knobs feel loose and lack resistance, raising concerns about durability during extended use.

    Source

Other

  • The EA-1's sound is described as "raspy" or "buzzy," with some finding it aggressive and prominent in mixes, especially when paired with certain oscillators.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Korg Electribe EA1 & ER1

soundonsound.com

Korg's Electribe EA-1 offers a novel twist on the classic dance workstation, embracing an affordable, hands-on approach to sound creation. It's a dual-synth powerhouse with unique effects and real-time controls that make for a playful, albeit sometimes chaotic, music-making experience. While its lack of LFO and limited synth parameters might frustrate purists, its quirky appeal and portability make it a compelling choice for those seeking something different. With its versatile sequencer and motion sequencer, the EA-1 invites experimentation, though its reliance on mains power and fiddly controls could be drawbacks for some. Overall, it's a bold, fun synth that encourages creativity.

positive
Add

4.0 out of 5

Based on 6 Reviews and 33 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
rowlandrose

A versatile starter synth for quick edits and unique sounds

My first synthesizer :) It sounds like a tin can but you can easily edit quickly on it. There are a few ways to make a nice lead or bass, so I still use it to supplement my compositions.

lexplexus

Fun

This thing was in the sale bin, I couldn't resist. I still have to figure out how to save patches & whatnot, but it sure did help add life to my Drum & Bass productions. The input knobs are not very fine-control but that's part of the charm.

biobazar

une super machine pour pas cher

un Step Sequencer performant coupler à un synth à deux osc, fiable solide et sans probleme Génial petit module, bon son gras, grain electrique, disto, un genre de 303 à la KORG, sale ELECTRO

jesse_cian_fawcett

Great machine, but somewhat limited

This is a great analogue-modelling bass and bleep synth, but its lack of an accent function and the somewhat complicated programming process limit its usefulness somewhat.

chemical_hazard

We like it

Unic sound with this synth, you need some externals effects but she's really interisting

B

Synth step sequencer/groovebox..

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Samiyam uses Korg Electribe  EA-1

Samiyam

Music Producer

FLYamSAM

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post by Stones Throw, it is noted that Samiyam utilized a Korg Electribe EA-1 in the production of "Swamp People" from his album "Pizza Party."

See how Jeff Frankenstein uses Korg Electribe  EA-1

Jeff Frankenstein

Singer, Keyboardist

Newsboys

...
Verified via YouTube

Analogue Modeling Synth used in Thrive and Adoration Tours

See how Steve Roach uses Korg Electribe  EA-1

Steve Roach

Music Producer

...
Verified via reverb.com

Steve Roach provided Reverb with the below list of synthesizers and hardware—his "portable rig"—that was used during his premiere performance in NYC at Church Of The Heavenly Rest on June 4th, 2022.

See how Tommi Kelly uses Korg Electribe  EA-1

Tommi Kelly

Music Producer

Deli Girls

...
Verified via Photo

The Electribe EA-1 is featured in almost all Deli Girls live performances and is a mainstay of Tommi’s setup and sound

See how Xosar uses Korg Electribe  EA-1

Xosar

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video of her 2013 Boiler Room set at the Dekmantel festival, an Electribe EA-1 is visible on her right, in front of one of the ESX samplers.

See how 4lung uses Korg Electribe  EA-1

4lung

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video titled "PLAYIN WIV SYNFS 2: the symfining" by Hushy Rawrdcore, it is visually confirmed that 4lung uses the Korg Electribe EA-1, among other equipment such as the Korg Volca Drum, Korg Volca Modular, and Joyo US Dream distortion pedal.

Album Usage

The Korg Electribe EA-1 has been featured on the following albums:

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 Electribe EA-1, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Line 6 Echo Pro
Line 6 Echo Pro Effects Processors
1
Eventide TimeFactor Twin Delay
1
Korg MicroKORG
Korg MicroKORG Synthesizers
1
Lexicon PCM-70 Reverb
Lexicon PCM-70 Reverb Effects Processors
1
Joyo US Dream Pedal
Joyo US Dream Pedal Overdrive Effects Pedals
1
Korg Volca Drum
Korg Volca Drum Drum Machines
1
Focusrite Scarlett 18i20
1
1010music Blackbox
1010music Blackbox Audio Samplers
1
Roland TR-505
Roland TR-505 Drum Machines
1

1 alternative for Korg Electribe EA-1, curated by the Equipboard community.

Korg Electribe EA1-MKII

$329.00

newer

The mkii was a minor update to the EA-1.

More Korg Synthesizers

Korg Minilogue

$411.00 - $699.99

# 10

Rank

Aphex Twin King Krule Misha Mansoor
132 artists using
Korg MicroKORG

$389.00 - $538.00

# 16

Rank

Kevin Parker Frank Iero Joe Duplantier
324 artists using
Korg MS-20 Mini

$500.33 - $899.99

# 20

Rank

Kevin Parker Mike Shinoda Deadmau5
92 artists using
Korg microKORG XL+

$425.00 - $749.99

# 52

Rank

JPEGMAFIA Tobacco Neil Cicierega
19 artists using
Korg Volca Bass

$119.99 - $159.99

# 53

Rank

Richie Hawtin Eric Avery Amir Derakh
39 artists using
Korg PolySix

$42.38 - $99.99

# 74

Rank

Frank Ocean Roland Orzabal Benny Blanco
73 artists using
Korg microKORG S

$444.00 - $749.99

# 90

Rank

Stu Mackenzie SEMATARY Arca
10 artists using
Korg MS-20

$1,349.99 - $1,399.99

 
Thom Yorke Aphex Twin Matthew Bellamy
247 artists using
Korg Wavestate

$549.99 - $649.99

 
Jordan Rudess Vangelis Jean Michel Jarre
8 artists using
Korg Opsix

$329.00 - $423.75

 
Damon Albarn The Chemical Brothers Jordan Rudess
12 artists using
Korg Karma

$14.99 - $240.93

 
Phil Collins Rick Wakeman Herbie Hancock
29 artists using

Community setups

Gear Guides