Korg M500 Micro-Preset

$650.00 Price Tier: Standard

4.5 (6)

2 Reviews

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

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1 community setup

5 wishlisted

14 saved

Page last updated Jul 04, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated July 4, 2026.

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$650.00 4 available Used

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Average Price: $650

Standard/Professional

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

In the Synthesizers category, Korg M500 Micro-Preset is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

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Description

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Explore the vintage charm and intuitive functionality of the Korg M500 Micro-Preset, a classic monophonic synthesizer that has captured the hearts of musicians since its original release in the late 1970s. Perfect for both seasoned synth enthusiasts and newcomers alike, this instrument offers a preset-based analog experience that is straightforward yet powerfully expressive. The M500 is equipped with 30 presets, providing a rich palette of sounds without the need for complex programming, making it a favorite for live performances and studio sessions.

The Korg M500 Micro-Preset features a single-oscillator design with a white noise generator, which can be combined to produce a variety of classic synth sounds. Its 37-note keyboard is responsive and easy to play, allowing musicians to unleash their creativity with minimal setup. The simplicity of the control interface is balanced by the richness of its sound, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to add authentic retro flair to their music.

Its compact design and durable build ensure that it can withstand the rigors of live performances and frequent travel, making it a reliable companion for gigs and studio recordings alike. Whether you're aiming for nostalgic tones or looking to explore new sonic landscapes, the Korg M500 Micro-Preset delivers with effortless style and precision.

Key Features:

Monophonic analog synthesizer with 30 presets
Single oscillator with white noise generator
37-note keyboard
Simple control interface for quick sound selection
Compact and portable design
Ideal for live performance and studio use

Product specs

Brand	Korg
Model	Micro Preset M-500
Finish	Wood
Year	1977
Made In	Japan
Categories	Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital	Analog
Key Size	Full Size
Keyboard Action	Synth Action
Number of Keys	32 Keys
Polyphony	1 Voice

FAQs

Is the Korg M500 Micro-Preset monophonic or polyphonic?: The Korg M500 Micro-Preset is a monophonic synthesizer, meaning it can only play one note at a time.
What type of synthesis does the Korg M500 Micro-Preset use?: The Korg M500 Micro-Preset utilizes analog synthesis, providing warm and classic analog sounds typical of the late 1970s.
How many keys does the Korg M500 Micro-Preset have?: The Korg M500 Micro-Preset features a 32-key full-size keyboard with synth action, offering a compact yet playable interface.
What are the standout sound features of the Korg M500 Micro-Preset?: The Korg M500 Micro-Preset is known for its rich analog tones and simple preset-based sound design, making it ideal for classic synth sounds and textures.
Is the Korg M500 Micro-Preset suitable for live performances?: While primarily designed for studio use, the Korg M500 Micro-Preset's compact size and robust analog sound make it a viable option for live performances, especially for vintage synth enthusiasts.

Videos

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AnalogAudio1

KORG MICRO PRESET M-500 SP | Analog Synthesizer 1977 | HQ DEMO

AnalogAudio1

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 M500 Micro-Preset.

Mods and upgrades

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Adding ad/ar switches and cv/gate input enhances versatility; addressing envelope and resonance limitations effectively.
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Use green cable for the EG mod (not orange); yellow is Trigger Out, red and green are EG In signals.
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Setup and maintenance

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Replacing all electrolytic capacitors is advised due to potential leakage and copper trace damage.
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Users highlight the need to check continuity around 220uF, 33uF, and 10uF capacitors due to frequent trace damage.
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Users report pitch range issues, with a semitone drift and octave scaling problems, drifting up to three semitones in the last octave.
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User experience

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Despite selling more tweakable machines, owners often retain the M500 due to its unique charm and functionality.
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Owners appreciate the smoothness of the filter and the character of the slightly 'skewed' waveforms.
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Build quality

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The Korg 35 filter is noted for its reliability, with no reported crackling sounds even in older units.
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Original wood case absorbed moisture, preventing significant damage, though one synth corner was moisture-damaged and separated, requiring cosmetic repair.
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Features and functionality

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The ability to layer two sections adds unique depth to the M500's sound profile.
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Value and pricing

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A user traveled 200 miles and paid $35 for a partially functional unit, indicating high desirability despite condition.
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Purchased for €200 after negotiations due to tuning issues, highlighting the high desirability despite condition and known value.
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Use cases and applications

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Despite common use for basslines, one owner prefers using the M500 for lead/solo parts with added delay and reverb effects.
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4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 6 Ratings

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1 star

m0ritsch

178

about 5 years ago

Nice Analog Vintage Bass Synth

when you use it, you realize that it is old. the sounds are quickly limited. But the old limited mono sound of korg, has his own charm. Especially are the deep sounds. they are really nice bassy.

Preferred Settings + Usage:

Mono Bass Sounds really great

Roles:

Guitarist Keyboardist Music Producer

Genres:

Electronic Rock

lucianofortalobos

278

over 8 years ago

Electric Dreams

Human League had one so I needed to have one. I searched far and wide and after I gave up one fell in my lap. Then funny enough someone had one sitting in a toolshed outside. Poor state though. So had to take it to the shop. It works like a charm now and takes me back to the golden synth era that was the early eighties