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Korg M1R

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$120.61

4.5 (10)

1 Critic Review

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

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Page last updated Jul 04, 2026

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Description

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Rack version of the Korg M1

The M1 was and still is a popular and widely used digital synthesizer and music workstation. The M1 features built-in AI Synthesis for full digital generation and processing using 4MB of PCM sampled and synthesized waveforms which can be shaped using analog-style editing. The M1 is capable of creating acoustic instruments with clarity, nice digital sounds and good buzzy techno sounds. The M1 is sort of like a workstation-version of the Roland D-50.

In addition to its acclaimed sound, it has a somewhat sophisticated 8-track sequencer. It holds 10 songs and 100 patterns and up to 7,700 notes, and offers full quantizing and editing. Full MIDI implementation suites the M1 ideally for studio production and MIDI system use. Up to 8 parts of multitimbrality with the 8 track sequencer makes for a powerful machine. Add to that a host of digital multi-effects and you've got one of the most widely and professionally used Korg synthesizers around.

Polyphony - 16 voices Oscillators - 4MB PCM waveforms (144 multisampled sounds) Effects - Digital multi-effects: reverb, delay, overdrive, EQ, chorus, rotary speaker, and more. Filter - VDF: Variable Digital Lowpass Filter, velocity sensitive (non-resonant) VCA - VDA: Variable Digital Amplifier; 3 independent 4-stage ADSR envelope generators Keyboard - 61 keys with Velocity, Aftertouch, Multi, Layer, Split modes Memory - 100 patches Control - MIDI (8 parts) Date Produced - 1988-94

Product specs

Brand	Korg
Model	M1R Rackmount Workstation Synthesizer
Finish	Black
Year	1990s
Categories	Digital Synthesizers, Rackmount Synths
Analog / Digital	Digital
MIDI I/O	MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Polyphony	16 Voices

FAQs

What kind of sounds can I expect from the Korg M1R?: The Korg M1R is known for its iconic digital sounds, including lush pads, punchy basses, and realistic acoustic instruments, which were groundbreaking in the late '80s and '90s.
Is the Korg M1R polyphonic, and if so, how many voices does it support?: Yes, the Korg M1R is polyphonic and supports 16 voices, allowing for complex sound layering and rich textures.
What are the MIDI connectivity options available on the Korg M1R?: The Korg M1R offers MIDI Input, Output, and Through, providing robust connectivity for integration with other MIDI-compatible gear.
How does the Korg M1R differ from the original Korg M1 keyboard?: The Korg M1R is a rackmount version of the original M1 keyboard, offering the same sound engine and features without the integrated keyboard, making it ideal for studio rack setups.
Can the Korg M1R be used with modern DAWs?: Yes, the Korg M1R can be integrated with modern DAWs using its MIDI capabilities, although some additional setup may be required for seamless operation.

Videos

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Tiago Mallen

KORG M1r - Review by Tiago Mallen (Test factory sounds) #korg

Tiago Mallen

Korg M1R | Factory Presets Preview

Simon Le Grec

Best Ambient Synth Shootout #71: Korg M1R - Song 1

Christian's Sonic Spaces

Reviews

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Korg M1R.

Features and functionality

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The M1R shares the same 100 sounds and 100 combos as the M1 keyboard, with deep dive editing being cumbersome.
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The M1R lacks a joystick, unlike the M1 keyboard, which may affect hands-on control during live performances.
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Surprisingly, the M1R includes a sequencer, a rare feature for rack-mounted synthesizers, which can be advantageous for live or solo performances.
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Mods and upgrades

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The Korg RE1 controller significantly enhances the M3R, allowing for live effects tweaking and providing a more versatile experience.
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Software and compatibility

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Owners use MIDI editors on their computers for programming, making rack position irrelevant and enhancing ease of use.
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USB-MIDI interface combined with sysex transferring software is essential for loading custom patches onto the M1R.
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Comparisons

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The M1R is considered dull next to the Korg 01/W, which offers more interesting waveshaping capabilities.
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The M1R retains the same sound engine as the M1 and can use the same data cards, maintaining sound consistency across both models.
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The N1R, often cheaper than the M1R, offers additional waveforms but lacks the unique "strange windchimes" sound of the M1R.
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Use cases and applications

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The M1R is noted for adding digital pads and textures, ideal for music styles like Bal Sagoth, using it alongside gear like the XP50 for orchestration.
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Users experimenting with pop/rock or solo shows may find the M1R's sequencer beneficial for integrating into live settings without relying on external sequencing gear.
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Setup and maintenance

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Rack modules like the M1R require careful setup; MIDI editor usage is recommended to overcome positioning challenges.
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Using the headphone jack can cause unexpected sound issues; switching to the stereo out port may resolve high-pitched reverb problems.
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User experience

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Initial sound issues on specific patches can sometimes resolve by experimenting with different output ports on the M1R.
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Critic Reviews

Korg M1R (SOS Jul 89)

muzines.co.uk

The Korg M1R offers the M1's acclaimed sounds in a space-saving rack mount, appealing to those with crowded studios. While praised for its high-quality presets and integrated digital effects, the M1R's limited editing capabilities on PCM samples and lack of advanced synthesis features like pulse width modulation are notable drawbacks. Its compact design and ability to replace PCM samples are strong points, making it a versatile addition to any setup. However, the lack of intuitive software navigation and certain MIDI limitations might frustrate users seeking deeper control. Overall, it's a solid choice for those prioritizing sound quality in a compact form.

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4.5 out of 5

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