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Description

Unleash your creativity with the Korg Kaossilator 2S, a pocket-sized powerhouse designed for musicians on the move. This intuitive effects processor is more than just a synthesizer; it's your all-in-one music creation tool. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, the Kaossilator 2S makes music-making accessible to everyone with its touch-responsive interface. Simply glide your fingers over the X-Y pad to play melodies and manipulate sounds in real-time, no keyboard skills required.

Equipped with 150 versatile sounds ranging from synth leads to acoustic tones, this device covers a wide range of musical genres. The Kaossilator 2S doesn't stop at performance; it excels in production too. With its loop recorder, you can layer sounds, create intricate tracks, and even undo or redo your last take. Want to take your tracks further? Export them as multi-track WAV files or directly into an Ableton Live set, making it seamless to integrate into your studio workflow.

Designed for portability, the Kaossilator 2S runs on AA batteries, so you can create music wherever inspiration strikes. Whether you're building tracks in your bedroom or performing live, this compact synthesizer is your ticket to spontaneous musical exploration.

Key Features:

  • Palm-sized synthesizer with an intuitive touchpad for playing and manipulating sounds
  • Over 150 sound programs, including synths, acoustic instruments, and drum kits
  • Loop recorder with sound-on-sound recording, undo/redo capabilities
  • Export creations as WAV files or Ableton Live sets
  • Includes Ableton Live Lite DAW software
  • Runs on two AA batteries for ultimate portability
  • Supports up to 16GB microSDHC cards for extensive storage

FAQs

What makes the Korg Kaossilator 2S different from the original Kaossilator 2?

The Korg Kaossilator 2S includes unlimited undo and redo functions and supports importing loops into Ableton Live. It also allows you to export loops as WAV files, both as a mix and as separate tracks, enhancing its usability for music production.

How does the Korg Kaossilator 2S integrate with Ableton Live?

The Korg Kaossilator 2S comes with Ableton Live Lite, enabling seamless integration. You can export multi-tracked loop data directly into Ableton Live, allowing for further editing and production flexibility.

Can the Korg Kaossilator 2S record external audio sources?

Yes, the Korg Kaossilator 2S can record external audio sources using its onboard microphone or the 3.5mm mic input, allowing you to layer sounds and create complex compositions.

How many sounds does the Korg Kaossilator 2S offer?

The Korg Kaossilator 2S features 150 built-in synth sounds, giving you a wide range of tones to create diverse musical phrases and compositions.

Is the touchpad on the Korg Kaossilator 2S responsive?

Yes, the Korg Kaossilator 2S features a highly reactive touchpad that allows for expressive control over the sounds, making it easy to create dynamic musical phrases with simple gestures.

Korg

Korg

Korg Kaossilator 2s: Make Music Anywhere

Video thumbnail for Korg Kaossilator 2s: Make Music Anywhere by Korg

Korg Kaossilator 2s: Make Music Anywhere

Korg

Korg

Video thumbnail for Korg Kaossilator 2s - First Look and Demo by DJ Tech Direct

Korg Kaossilator 2s - First Look and Demo

DJ Tech Direct

DJ Tech Direct

Video thumbnail for Newest Kaossilator (2s) vs Oldest Kaossilator (mini) by Gearfacts

Newest Kaossilator (2s) vs Oldest Kaossilator (mini)

Gearfacts

Gearfacts

Video thumbnail for KORG KAOSSILATOR 2S @NAMM 2015 WITH DJKIT TV by djkit®

KORG KAOSSILATOR 2S @NAMM 2015 WITH DJKIT TV

djkit®

djkit®

Video thumbnail for Just got the Korg Kaossilator 2S. Short demo of all 150 presets. No talking. by Rainer Münz

Just got the Korg Kaossilator 2S. Short demo of all 150 presets. No talking.

Rainer Münz

Rainer Münz

Reviews

PROS

  • Portable, create music on-the-go

  • 150 excellent synth and instrument sounds

  • Powerful looping and arpeggiation options

  • Configurable X-Y pad for easy melody creation

  • Sound-on-sound recording for building complete songs

  • Export options include separate WAV files or Ableton Live set

CONS

  • Needs better integration with Volca series

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Korg Kaossilator 2S.

Features and functionality

  • The Korg Kaossilator 2S is noted for its tactile interface and originality, appealing to users who value hands-on interaction without a steep learning curve.

    Source
  • It's powered by batteries, making it an ideal choice for those seeking portable music-making solutions without the need for computer connectivity.

    Source
  • The Kaossilator is described as a "preset machine" with limitations in sound design, indicating it may not satisfy users seeking deep customization.

    Source
  • The maximum loop length is 6.4 seconds, regardless of using the internal microphone or external input.

    Source
  • The loop length is restricted to four beats at 37.5–74.9 BPM and two beats at 20.0–37.4 BPM.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners praise its ability to function as a standalone device, suitable for creating entire tracks on the go, which suits beginners and enthusiasts alike.

    Source
  • Many users express satisfaction with the Kaossilator 2S, highlighting that it's a purchase decision few regret, emphasizing its appeal within its niche.

    Source
  • A specific complaint is the "unbelievably bad interface," suggesting frustration with user interaction and possibly hindering workflow.

    Source
  • Some owners have successfully performed live with the Kaossilator 2S in combination with other gear like a Volca and an iPad, synced via MIDI.

    Source

Comparisons

  • It's been compared to other groovebox-style devices like the Novation Circuit, which offers more sound shaping options but lacks the Kaossilator's portability.

    Source
  • Users have found the Korg Kaoss Pad 3+ more suitable for looping, despite its own limitations in loop length and slots.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Users mention its suitability for creating percussive elements and melodic lines, although some find it limited for more complex compositions.

    Source
  • The Kaossilator's limitation in recording length restricts the creation of long phrases, but creative use of loop banks can mitigate this.

    Source
  • Not ideal for looping external sources due to short loop length, but can be used creatively by bouncing loops to free up slots.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some users highlight the Korg Kaossilator 2S's "quirky plastic" appearance as a potential drawback, contributing to a perception of poor build quality.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Historical pricing shows a Kaossilator Pro purchased for $600 AUD and sold for $460 AUD over a decade later, indicating strong resale value.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Gear Review: Korg - Kaossilator 2S | Juno Daily

juno.co.uk

The Korg Kaossilator 2S is a delightful gadget for budding musicians and seasoned producers alike, offering a playful and portable way to sketch musical ideas. While its tactile interface and EDM-centric sounds invite creativity, the randomness of note generation may frustrate those seeking precision. The inclusion of Ableton Live 9 Lite is a bonus, and its lightweight design makes it perfect for on-the-go music creation. However, its limited control might not satisfy those looking for polished compositions. Overall, it’s a fun, entry-level tool that excels in capturing spontaneous musical moments.

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Based on 3 Reviews and 7 Ratings

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spaker

Useful FX Tool with Live PA Electronic Music Setusps

The Korg kaossilator 2S synthesizer offers you a simple way to create cool and original electronic music in the palm of your hand. Loaded with 150 excellent synth and instrument sounds, plus powerful looping and arpeggiation options, the kaossilator 2S covers a broad range of musical styles. It's configurable X-Y pad lets you quickly tap out melodies, and thanks to sound-on-sound recording, you can build up complete songs wherever you go. Sweetwater electronic music artists are even more stoked about the kaossilator S2's export options, which let you save each recorded layer as a separate layer as its own WAV file or as a complete Ableton Live set.

snoking

lil bugger broke my Korg iS40

Its a love hate relationship here in the beginning. I'm sure loving this synth, but it needs more Volca freindly integration along with all the others.

georgehammond

A great product!

A great product! I love it for its looping functions!

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