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Description

Introducing the Korg Kronos 88-key Synthesizer Workstation - the embodiment of over 50 years of Korg's artistic vision and expertise in production. This synthesizer workstation is the ultimate tool for the modern musician, merging multiple state-of-the-art sound generation techniques with an array of performance and production tools. It's more than a synthesizer; it's a complete ecosystem for musical creation and performance.

The Kronos is versatile and intuitive, equipped with nine distinct synthesis engines, dual joysticks, ribbon controller, and Korg's revolutionary tap-and-drag color TouchView(TM) display. It's designed to deliver not only what you'd expect from a top-tier synthesizer but also to provide features you've only dreamed of. The Set List mode keeps all of your custom settings and performance notes organized in the display for on-the-fly selection.

Experience the thrill of creating music with the Enhanced SGX-2 Grand Piano Sound Engine featuring the Berlin Grand. The engine offers a resonant piano sound with a striking sense of depth. The internal SSD offers an impressive 62GB capacity, providing ample space for user sampling or downloading Kronos Sound Libraries.

Key Features:

  • Enhanced SGX-2 Grand Piano Engine with the Berlin Grand
  • Nine distinct synthesis engines
  • Massive sound selection
  • Intuitive Set List mode with many updates
  • Color TouchView display with TouchDrag capability
  • 16-track audio recording / 16-track MIDI sequencing
  • 16 onboard effects processors
  • USB/MIDI host ports accommodating various MIDI control surfaces
  • Flagship RH3 Graded Hammer Action keyboard (88 key model)
  • Smooth Sound Transitions
  • Advanced Control Surface
  • Dual Joysticks (X-Y; Vector)
  • Ribbon Controller
  • 8 rotary knobs
  • 9 sliders
  • 16 illuminated buttons
  • Generous 62GB internal SSD capacity for user sampling or Kronos Sound Libraries download.

Product specs

Brand Korg
Model Kronos 88
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Categories Keyboard Synths, Workstation Keyboards
Analog / Digital Digital
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Weighted
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through, USB MIDI
Number of Keys 88 Keys
Polyphony 200 Voices

FAQs

Does the Korg Kronos 88-key Synthesizer Workstation have weighted keys?

Yes, the Korg Kronos 88 features a fully weighted RH3 real hammer action keyboard, providing an authentic piano feel ideal for expressive playing.

What types of sound engines are included in the Korg Kronos 88?

The Korg Kronos 88 includes nine different synthesizer sound engines, allowing for a wide range of sounds from realistic acoustic instruments to classic synth tones.

Is the Korg Kronos 88-key Synthesizer Workstation suitable for live performance?

Yes, the Korg Kronos 88 is designed for live performance with features like Set List mode for quick access to sounds and smooth sound transitions.

How many voices of polyphony does the Korg Kronos 88 offer?

The Korg Kronos 88 offers up to 200 voices of polyphony, enabling complex compositions and layered soundscapes without note dropouts.

Can the Korg Kronos 88 be connected to a computer for MIDI control?

Yes, the Korg Kronos 88 supports MIDI Input, Output, and Through, as well as USB MIDI, allowing seamless integration with computer-based DAWs and MIDI setups.

What is the primary use of the Korg Kronos 88-key Synthesizer Workstation?

The Korg Kronos 88 is a versatile workstation ideal for studio production, live performance, and sound design, offering a comprehensive suite of tools for musicians and producers.

Sound On Sound magazine

Sound On Sound magazine

Korg Kronos - NAMM 2015

Video thumbnail for Korg Kronos - NAMM 2015 by Sound On Sound magazine

Korg Kronos - NAMM 2015

Sound On Sound magazine

Sound On Sound magazine

Reviews

PROS

  • Unmatched sound quality, even with multiple tracks running

  • Vast sound library covers all music styles with realistic nuances

  • Seamless integration for both studio and live environments

  • Allows for smooth transitions between sounds without cutoff

  • Durable and reliable build quality for long-term use

  • Offers great value for its price point

  • Can create custom sounds and beats easily

  • Fully weighted 88-key keyboard provides an authentic playing experience

  • Advanced features make it a top choice among professional keyboardists

  • Attractive, business-like design with efficient controls

CONS

  • Steep learning curve for advanced functions

  • Heavy, making it less portable for some users

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Korg Kronos 88-key Synthesizer Workstation.

Setup and maintenance

  • Some users report needing to change RAM and resolder components in older Kronos models due to reliability issues, highlighting potential maintenance considerations.

    Source
  • Some owners have experienced motherboard failures and note the discontinued availability of replacement boards, complicating repairs.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Kronos is appreciated for its extensive sample libraries, including pianos, organs, and strings, which are highly usable right out of the box.

    Source
  • The Kronos is capable of receiving files over FTP via an Ethernet connection, offering advanced connectivity options.

    Source
  • The Kronos features nine distinct synth engines, providing versatility for classical and electronic music alike.

    Source
  • The Kronos 3 features a faster boot time, larger SSD, and a fan-less design, addressing previous user complaints about startup delays and noise.

    Source
  • Users express mixed feelings about the built-in Karma feature, finding it powerful but complex to program effectively.

    Source

User experience

  • Kronos is noted for being extremely heavy, with a flight case weight around 82 lbs, posing challenges for gigging musicians.

    Source
  • Long-term Korg users find the Kronos workflow familiar, with similarities to the Korg 01/W and Triton series.

    Source
  • The Kronos's touch screen interface is noted for its clarity, though some users find navigating its many features cumbersome.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Kronos's Hammond patches are reported to sound more authentic than those on the Yamaha Montage, making it superior for organ sounds.

    Source
  • The Italian piano included in the Kronos 3's SGX-2 engine offers improved sound quality compared to previous models, enhancing its appeal to pianists.

    Source
  • The Kronos offers superior grand piano sounds compared to Yamaha Montage and Waldorf Quantum, beneficial for classically trained pianists.

    Source
  • The Nord Stage 3, though not a workstation, is praised for its weight and portability, with a highly regarded Fatar TP/80 keybed.

    Source

Build quality

  • The Kronos's hammer action keyboard, while generally well-regarded, has been reported to fail due to security board issues, preventing boot-up.

    Source
  • Concerns are raised about the aesthetics of the Kronos 3, particularly the side panels, which some users find visually unappealing.

    Source

Other

  • The Kronos 3's updated sound engines are perceived by some as minor improvements over the Kronos 2, with little change in overall sound quality according to some users.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Kronos 3 is seen as a reliable option for live performers due to extended support and updated components, appealing to professionals worried about the longevity of older models.

    Source
  • The Kronos excels in set list handling, allowing seamless switching between different configurations during live performances.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Review: Korg Kronos Keyboard Workstation — AudioTechnology

audiotechnology.com

The Korg Kronos 88-key Synthesizer Workstation impresses with its nine diverse synthesis engines, including a lavish 9GB Berlin piano, making it a powerhouse of sonic versatility. The RH3 weighted hammer-action keyboard adds to its appeal, elevating the playing experience. The touch 'n' drag navigation system enhances user interaction, making it intuitive to explore its vast features. While the price is steep, ranging from $4,499 to $5,999, the Kronos is a worthy investment for serious musicians seeking unparalleled synthesis capabilities. Despite minor aesthetic criticisms, it stands as a formidable contender in the world of synthesizers.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 5 Reviews and 9 Ratings

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4 star
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1 star
W

Love it

I've played on this keyboard for about two years now. One of my best purchases. The only complaint I have is it's a bit heavy, but that's to be expected with an 88-key fully weighted keyboard. Other than that, no complaints come to mind.

thedarklands

An outstanding workstation..

The Korg Kronos 88, is simply the best workstation I have had the pleasure of using, it's packed with features, and sounds amazing. This is a keeper!

From Gear Setup
kimhawk

The ultimate keyboard

This keyboard does everything. It's very heavy and it's quite advanced to learn. But once you learn how to use it properly, it's easily the best workstation on the market. It's no surprise many of the world greatest keyboardists use this keyboard.

tschaggon

Greatest workstation

This is the greatest workstation ever. It has many great and detailed sounds and you can change the settings on each sound to your needs. There is nothing better than the Korg Kronos!

cfeijao

Minha principal workstation

Poderosa workstation com diversos motores sonoros. Uso como minha principal fonte para sons acústicos e orchestrais.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Zaytoven uses Korg Kronos 88-key Synthesizer Workstation

Zaytoven

Keyboardist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Imgur

You can clearly see his korg kronos 2 in this instagram story.

See how Cameron Winter uses Korg Kronos 88-key Synthesizer Workstation

Cameron Winter

Singer, Guitarist

Geese

...
Verified via YouTube

The synthesizer visible at the 19:24 mark of the video.

See how Greg Phillinganes uses Korg Kronos 88-key Synthesizer Workstation

Greg Phillinganes

Keyboardist

The Jackson 5

...
Verified via KORG Global

“I love the Kronos because it’s a natural culmination of its predecessors, the Triton and Trinity- both of which I’ve gotten a LOT of mileage out of in the past two decades.”

See how Shaun Martin uses Korg Kronos 88-key Synthesizer Workstation

Shaun Martin

Keyboardist, Composer

Snarky Puppy

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, you can see Shaun Martin using this equipment. The Korg Kronos brand appears more clearly at 14:08.

See how Vadim Pruzhanov uses Korg Kronos 88-key Synthesizer Workstation

Vadim Pruzhanov

Keyboardist

DragonForce

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube video, at 1:22, Vadim Pruzhanov uses his Korg Kronos 88 Workstation with his Korg M3-M Synth Workstation Sampler Module.

See how DOMi uses Korg Kronos 88-key Synthesizer Workstation

DOMi

Keyboardist

Domi and JD Beck

...
Verified via YouTube

DOMi is confirmed to use the Korg Kronos 88-key Synthesizer Workstation, as seen in a performance on October 12, 2019, at Blue Note NYC, captured by Mobb Suit on YouTube.

See how Bill Payne uses Korg Kronos 88-key Synthesizer Workstation

Bill Payne

Keyboardist, Music Producer

The Doobie Brothers

...
Verified via KORG Global

Listed on Bill's official Korg page.

See how Gary Barlow uses Korg Kronos 88-key Synthesizer Workstation

Gary Barlow

Singer, Keyboardist

Take That

...
Verified via KORG Global

In this article, Gary talks about using the Korg Kronos keyboard for writing.

See how Clive Nolan uses Korg Kronos 88-key Synthesizer Workstation

Clive Nolan

Singer, Keyboardist

Arena

...
Verified via YouTube

As seen being used in this Arena "Double Vision" video demo.

See how Michael Rodenberg uses Korg Kronos 88-key Synthesizer Workstation

Michael Rodenberg

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Avantasia

...
Verified

In the YouTube video "Avantasia Live Wacken 2022 (Full Show HD)" by Pat5502, Michael Rodenberg is visibly using a Korg Kronos 88-key Synthesizer Workstation at 58 minutes and 24 seconds into the performance.

See how Justin Lee Schultz uses Korg Kronos 88-key Synthesizer Workstation

Justin Lee Schultz

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In the attached video, Justin can be seen with 2 Korg Kronos keyboards; the top keyboard appears significantly shorter than the bottom one. Knowing he already has a 61 key Kronos (based on proof on Justin's page), and since the Kronos doesn't come in a smaller size, I've concluded the bottom keyboard is likely 88 keys. Further, the keyboard is labeled on the back, but not with an X, so it's not the Kronos X 88.

See how Charlie Wilson uses Korg Kronos 88-key Synthesizer Workstation

Charlie Wilson

Singer

The Gap Band

...
Verified via YouTube

You can see in this video at 2:24 the keyboardist in Wilson’s band has a Korg Kronos in the background while they play “Computer Love” with Charlie Wilson singing (who I did not know was a singer on the original with Roger Troutman).

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 Kronos 88-key Synthesizer Workstation, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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thedarklands

thedarklands

Gear IQ 154

thedarklands

thedarklands

Gear IQ 154

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