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Average Price: $438
Budget/Beginner
$500
$1501+
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Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Korg MicroKORG". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Meet the Korg MicroKORG Synthesizer/Vocoder, the perfect blend of quality, flexibility, and portability. Crafted by Korg, this synthesizer is renowned for its robust synthesis capabilities and its vocoder features. It's the secret weapon of artists ranging from Dr. Dre to LCD Soundsystem, and it's ready to take your sound to the next level.
This beast is powered by the same dual-oscillator DSP synthesis engine found in Korg's critically acclaimed MS2000. It offers a wider selection of waveforms than almost any other modeled synthesizer. Its 8-band vocoder allows you to capture and "freeze" the formants of your voice, then play it across the keyboard or shift the formant frequency to make your voice sound any way you wish.
Not only does it offer powerful sound generation, but it's also compact and portable. The MicroKORG's mini-keyboard sports 37 velocity-sensitive keys, MIDI in/out and thru, and can run from its power supply or 6 AA batteries. It's perfect for the musician on the go and fantastic for live shows, thanks to its easy program selection and LED illuminated buttons.
Key Features:
- Analog Modeling Synthesis System
- 4 voices
- 2 Oscillator + Noise Generator
- 8-band vocoder
- 128 programs
- Modulation effects (3 types), Delay (3 types), 2-band Equalizer
- Arpeggiator: 6 types
- 37 Keys (mini-keyboard, velocity sensitive)
- Inputs: AUDIO IN 1, and 2
- Outputs: L/MONO, R and Headphones
- MIDI: IN, OUT and THRU
- Power Supply: DC 9 V (AC adapter), or six AA alkaline batteries
- Accessories: AC adapter (DC 9 V, 600 mA), Condenser Microphone
Owner's manual
Korg MicroKORG User ManualProduct specs
| Type | Keyboard Synthesizer with Vocoder |
| Sound Engine | Analog Modeling |
| Analog/Digital | Digital |
| Number of Keys | 37 |
| Type of Keys | Synth Action, Mini Keys |
| Velocity Sensitive | Yes |
| Other Controllers | Pitchbend, Mod Wheel |
| Polyphony | 4 voices |
| Number of Presets | 128 |
| Oscillators | 2 x VCO |
| Waveforms | Sawtooth, Square, Triangle, Sine, Vox, DWGS, Noise, Audio In |
| LFO | 2 x LFO |
| Filter | 4-pole Lowpass, 2-pole Lowpass/Bandpass/Highpass |
| Envelope Generator | 2 x ADSR |
| Number of Effects | 7 |
| Effects Types | Modulation, Delay, EQ |
| Arpeggiator | Yes |
| Audio Inputs | 1 x TS (Mic/Line), 1 x TS (Line) |
| Audio Outputs | 2 x 1/4" |
| Headphones | 1 x 1/4" |
| MIDI I/O | In/Out/Thru |
| Power Source | 9V DC power supply (included) / 6 x AA batteries (sold separately) |
| Height | 2.76" |
| Width | 20.63" |
| Depth | 9.13" |
| Weight | 4.85 lbs. |
FAQs
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Is the Korg microKORG suitable for beginners?
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Yes, the Korg microKORG is suitable for beginners due to its intuitive interface and wide range of presets. Its compact size and versatile sound engine make it a great entry point into synthesis.
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Can the Korg microKORG be used as a MIDI controller?
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Yes, the Korg microKORG can function as a MIDI controller, allowing you to control other MIDI-compatible devices or software.
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Does the Korg microKORG have a built-in arpeggiator?
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Yes, the Korg microKORG features a built-in arpeggiator, which offers multiple patterns and can be customized for creating dynamic sequences.
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What type of sound engine does the Korg microKORG use?
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The Korg microKORG uses an analog modeling sound engine, providing a wide range of sounds from classic analog to modern digital tones.
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How many voices of polyphony does the Korg microKORG offer?
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The Korg microKORG offers 4 voices of polyphony, allowing you to play up to four notes simultaneously.
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Does the Korg microKORG include a vocoder function?
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Yes, the Korg microKORG includes a vocoder function, allowing you to process your voice and create unique vocal effects.
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What power options are available for the Korg microKORG?
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The Korg microKORG can be powered using a 9V DC power supply (included) or 6 AA batteries, making it versatile for both studio and portable use.
Videos
DV247 Music Store UK TV
Korg Microkorg 10 Year Anniversary Demonstration
Korg Microkorg 10 Year Anniversary Demonstration
DV247 Music Store UK TV
Kraft Music - Korg microKORG Demo with Rich Formidoni
Kraft Music
The microKORG Synthesizer/Vocoder from Korg -- A Closer Look!
Korg
MicroKORG Overview/Tutorial
Anonymous Animal 2
20 Reasons We Still Love the microKORG, 20 Years Later
Reverb
KORG microKORG Synthesizer/Vocoder
KORG INC.
Korg microKORG Synthesizer | Gear4music demo
Gear4music Guitars
Korg MicroKorg 37-Mini Key Synthesizer & Vocoder
Reverb
Reviews
PROS
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Dual-oscillator DSP synthesis engine offers a wide range of sounds
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128 great sounding onboard presets cover diverse musical styles
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37 velocity-sensitive keys allow expressive playing
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8-band vocoder with advanced features for unique vocal effects
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Intuitive knob layout makes sound design accessible
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Portable and lightweight, ideal for live performances and travel
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Can process external instruments through its filters and effects
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Solid build quality, despite being mostly plastic
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Can serve as a compact MIDI controller
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Retro design with wooden side panels and beige-gold body adds vintage charm
CONS
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Mini keys feel toy-like and may hinder playability for some
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Preset sounds considered dated by some users
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Editing presets can be convoluted and unintuitive
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Polyphony limited to four notes, restricting layered patch possibilities
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Learning curve for programming and deep sound design
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No USB connectivity for direct integration with modern setups
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Sound character described as "cold" and lacking warmth by some
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Build quality perceived as fragile due to plastic construction
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Factory presets may not meet everyone's taste; extensive editing required
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Interface considered non-intuitive, especially for beginners
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Korg MicroKORG.
Value and pricing
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Older MicroKORG units could be found for around $200 used, but prices have risen, making alternatives like the Minilogue or MS2000 more appealing now.
Source
Software and compatibility
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Extensive MIDI implementation is highlighted, allowing connection with any computer, though additional MIDI interfaces may be required, affecting overall cost.
Source
Comparisons
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The MicroKORG is compared to the Alesis Micron, with some choosing it for its aesthetic features like fake wood endplates, despite more modern alternatives available now.
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The MicroKORG is often compared to the Minilogue, with users noting the Minilogue offers more hands-on control and true analog synthesis.
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Arturia MiniFreak is appreciated for its flexibility and sound presets, but it may take longer to achieve desired sounds due to its extensive features.
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The MicroKORG 2's sound engine is derived from the Radias/R3, offering smoother, deeper sounds compared to the original's MS2000 engine.
Source
Features and functionality
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The MicroKORG's mod matrix is described as limited, with users desiring more flexibility in the LFO/EG section for enhanced sound design capabilities.
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The MicroKORG offers a DW8000-style wavetable bank, providing a mid-80s sound, though users find its filter overly artifacty and not as pleasing when squelching.
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The MicroKORG has a 4-note polyphony limit, which can be restrictive for complex arrangements.
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MicroKORG 2 offers a looper, though it's described as more of a gimmick; the external looper may be preferred for serious looping.
Source
User experience
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Owners note the vocoder's sensitivity, highlighting the need to use a dynamic mic or be close to the included mic for optimal tone, as it easily overloads or barely registers.
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Some find the menu-diving for patch editing cumbersome, as it requires navigating parameter groups before tweaking with knobs.
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Owners find the screen and row of edit buttons on the MicroKORG 2 improve its usability, making it easier to navigate than the original matrix setup.
Source
Use cases and applications
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MicroKORG is valued for its ability to inspire ideas, with users reporting frequent creation of hooks, riffs, and basslines due to its unique preset design.
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The MicroKORG’s presets are well-suited for early 2000's drum 'n bass but may require resampling for modern complexity.
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The MicroKORG 2 is praised for its portability, being battery-powered, making it ideal for casual couch jamming sessions.
Source
Setup and maintenance
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Used MicroKORGs may have loose keys due to their toy-like build; caution is advised when buying second-hand.
Source
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 60 Reviews and 453 Ratings
299
Burnt it down :(
I used to have this one years ago (until my friend plugged it with a wrong DC block). It was my first hardware synthesizer and I must say it was astonishing for the price that days. It was 2 OSC's, in-built arppegiator and vocoder. Design is really retro-oriented (including wooden side-plates!!), while the later XL version looks more modern (and is very different; my synth-geek friend told me this baby is much better and versatile than the XL version) The controls are actually obvious, but I find them unconvenient for real-time tweaking. The synth is nice, but I won't buy another one, for my current needs a monophonic microbrute is much better.
P.S. I told you I burnt it down. It's true. The man from the workshop told me Microkorgs are equipped in the most cheap way in terms of security and is not foolproof, so the entire motherboard was killed by a single wrong plug-in. He also told it wouldn't happen if KORG added at least a few-dollar fuse to the power circuit. Unfortunately, they didn't. Be careful if you choose this device.
240
It's fun and sounds pretty good but limited UI
The interface on this little thing is just bad. It makes deep sound design feel like a chore. But, it sounds good and once you do dial in a sound it's pretty playable, specially considering the mini keys. Feels pretty solidly built too.
458
A fantastic analog modeling synthesizer with nice presets and customizing controls.
This is the small synth everybody loves. Its easy to use interface makes music composition a breeze. Fat juicy sounds emanate from this unit, but though the arpeggiator is useful, I wish it had a sequencer built into it. If you can have only one synthesizer and can't spend over $500, this is the one for you. It will take me years to explore all the possibilities.
I own the limited edition gold version.
I keep diving deeper and deeper into it and can't reach the bottom. Korg makes some of the finest synthesizers in existence at affordable prices.
132
Great retro sounds, interesting vocoding
I have found some great use in retro sounds as well as exceptionally powerful 808s. It's great fun to play with, and the vocoder also has some interesting applications. Whilst the preamp for the mic isn't very good so I'm unable to use my quieter dynamics, I've had some interesting uses routing a guitar pickup and having friends play video games and routing the audio through the vocoder.
41029
cheap and useful
Essentially a less tweakable ms2000 if you really wanna dive into this analog modeller... somewhere between a ROMpler and a 90s modeler with a nice vocoder and a toy keyboard.... the tiny form factor and price tag caused me to break down and buy one on ebay.... I like it but have yet to use it in a recording because the sounds is pretty generic.
5455
When we get time we should do a new lil' song challenge- restricted to our lesser used gear like this guy. I was tweaking on one a bit today @ a local shop...made me wanna dust it off & see what I can force it to do.
41029
yeah, maybe in August
5455
sounds about right
143
We all already know how great this thing is.
Come on now. You already know what it is, BUT out of respect for the community and site....
I use it for hip hop/boom bap style productions. Also some other genres but that is my main stay. Very fun synth and a great start into this area of hardware production. Very menu based when compared to something like the Microbrute. Love the sound presets, and the ability to manipulate/create new sounds. This thing has been a staple for YEARS. It was between this and the Microbrute for me for my first synth. Got a deal on a used MK for about 189 (crazy!). You can find them used at Guitar Center sometimes in the 200-250 range. Seen them on ebay for around 250-300. The brute starts off about 100 dollars cheaper at full price though. I plan to get that next.
41029
but what are you doing with it? Don't be a tool, review her like she's an alien piece of kit. That's the point of EB apart from spotting successful dudes using certain gear.... the user reviews are the meat and potatoes of this site.
143
I just use it in my productions (hip hop/boom bap). Has great onboard sounds, and easy to edit/produce new ones.
Amazing!!
Its big one in a little can, offer more than it costs, the synth for beginners and its easy
186
It’s okay
It’s a bit samesy samesy sounding but if you want a decent hardware synth that can run off batteries this one’s definitely worth checking out.
Artist usage
Add artist
In his documentary "Avicii: True Stories", a Korg MicroKORG can be seen next to him in his studio (at minute 50).
In this image, one can see a MicroKORG on Kevin's right.
Calvin uses a korg microkorg which can be seen in his studio
Flying Lotus tweets "dream to me is a track i made the morning after i bought a microkorg i made this and 'camera day' the same day"
This Korg microKORG Synthesizer/Vocoder is owned by Frank Iero
Play Microkorg In This YouTube video "Brothers And Sisters" at 3:05
In the video "Twenty One Pilots - Comment for Fuji Rock Festival 12" by Warner Music Japan, Josh Dun is seen holding a Korg MicroKORG Synthesizer/Vocoder.
In this instagram photo, we see the Korg MicroKORG as part of Matty's setup. He also uses it in their 2013 iTunes live concert during "The City".
Stu using the microkorg in cyboogie 4:54
Charlie Puth has a Microkorg on the table (which you can see at 0:26) in his MV, "The Way I Am."
Album Usage
The Korg MicroKORG has been featured on the following albums:
Portal
Balu Brigada (2025)
Hippie Sunshine
Kasabian (2025)
Pulsar
L’Impératrice (2024)
Pétalas & Balas
Alaska (2023)
Spectrum (Special Request Mixes)
Erol Alkan (2020)
Insects (Remember When)
Viviankrist (2020)
After The Rain
S.P.Y (2019)
Runaway Dub
S.P.Y (2019)
Spectrum / Silver Echoes (Matrixxman and Machine Woman Remixes)
Erol Alkan (2019)
Voicenotes
Charlie Puth (2018)
Spectrum / Silver Echoes
Erol Alkan (2018)
Pizza Party
Samiyam (2017)
The Demonstration
Drab Majesty (2017)
Dangerous Woman
Ariana Grande (2016)
Mess
Liars (2014)
Glitches in the Break
Black Milk (2014)
No Poison No Paradise
Black Milk (2013)
La Lanza
Babasónicos (2013)
Back On The Planet
Ras G (2013)
Velociraptor!
Kasabian (2011)
Creatures
Motionless In White (2010)
The Great Misdirect
Between the Buried and Me (2009)
L'amour et la violence
Sébastien Tellier (2009)
Hospice
The Antlers (2009)
Lead...On
Deventter (2009)
The Alchemy Index, Vol. 3 & 4: Air & Earth
Thrice (2008)
The way of all flesh
Gojira (2008)
The Alchemy Index, Vols. 1 & 2: Fire & Water
Thrice (2007)
Live Friday The 13th
Maroon 5 (2007)
Marvin's Marvelous Mechanical Museum
Tally Hall (2005)
Oxeneers or The Lion Sleeps When Its Antelope Go Home
These Arms Are Snakes (2004)
Bazooka Tooth
Aesop Rock (2003)
Different Damage
Q and Not U (2001)
God In Three Persons
The Residents (1988)
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 MicroKORG, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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