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Average Price: $347

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$500

$1501+

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Description

Unleash your creativity with the Korg Microsampler, a powerhouse of musical innovation compactly housed in a sleek design. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned musicians, this synthesizer is a gateway to the endless possibilities of sound sampling. With its intuitive interface, the Microsampler offers a seamless introduction to the art of sampling while carrying enough depth to satisfy even the most discerning audio craftsmen.

The Microsampler is not just a sampler—it's an entire production station. Featuring 37 velocity-sensitive keys, this portable dynamo allows you to capture any sound you can imagine, then manipulate and transform it into something entirely fresh. Its onboard memory stores up to 160 samples, providing ample space for your sonic explorations. The built-in effects, including reverb, delay, and modulation, give you the tools to shape your sounds with precision and creativity.

Whether you're looping a catchy beat, slicing a vocal, or experimenting with ambient soundscapes, the Microsampler's real-time controls and easy-to-navigate menu put the full spectrum of sampling at your fingertips. Its USB connectivity makes it easy to integrate with your existing setup, bridging the gap between traditional and digital music production.

Join the vibrant community of musicians who have discovered the endless possibilities of the Korg Microsampler. Whether you're crafting the next big hit or exploring new sonic territories, this synthesizer is your perfect companion on the journey of musical discovery.

Key Features:

  • 37 velocity-sensitive keys
  • Onboard memory for up to 160 samples
  • Built-in effects: reverb, delay, modulation
  • Intuitive interface with real-time controls
  • USB connectivity for seamless integration

Product specs

Sampling Rates 48 kHz, 24 kHz, 12 kHz, 6 kHz
Bank Structure 36 Samples per Bank (160 Seconds max.)
Available Banks 9 Total (8 User +1 ROM)
Time 160 seconds (mono) per bank; x 8 Banks (max.)
Polyphony 16 voices
Sampling Modes One-Shot; Gate; Loop; Key Gate; Auto-Next
Sampling Mode 36 Sample Playback Keys + 1 Audio Input
Keyboard Mode Single sample assigned chromatically across the keyboard
Structure 1 Master FX
Effect Types 21 (Compressor, Filter, 4-Band EQ, Distortion, Reverb, Delay, L/C/R Delay, Auto-Panning
Patterns 16 Patterns per bank; x 8 Banks
Note Count 64,000 notes total; 16,000 per bank
Resolution 480 ppq (parts per quarter note)
Input ¼" Jack (rear); XLR Balanced (top); with Mic/Line switch; Level knob
Outputs L/Mono, R; ¼" unbalanced
Phones ¼" Stereo Jack
MIDI In, Out
USB Type B
Display Custom LCD; 37 LEDs above keys
Power Supply 9 VDC (AC Adapter); 6 AAA Alkaline batteries”approx. 4 hours (sold separately)
Dimensions (W x D x H) 20.31" x 9.37" x 2.56"
Weight 4.19 lb.
PC Microsoft Windows XP (SP3 or later); Windows Vista (SP1 or later); USB port
MAC OSX Version 10.4 or later; USB port

FAQs

What are the sampling rates available on the Korg Microsampler?

The Korg Microsampler offers four sampling rates: 48 kHz, 24 kHz, 12 kHz, and 6 kHz, allowing for a range of audio quality and storage options.

How many samples can each bank hold on the Korg Microsampler?

Each bank on the Korg Microsampler can hold up to 36 samples, with a total of 9 banks available (8 user banks and 1 ROM bank).

Is the Korg Microsampler polyphonic, and if so, how many voices does it support?

Yes, the Korg Microsampler is polyphonic, supporting up to 16 voices, which allows for rich and layered sound production.

What kind of effects does the Korg Microsampler offer?

The Korg Microsampler includes 21 different effects such as Compressor, Filter, 4-Band EQ, Distortion, Reverb, and various Delays, providing versatile sound shaping options.

Can the Korg Microsampler be powered by batteries?

Yes, the Korg Microsampler can be powered by 6 AAA alkaline batteries, providing approximately 4 hours of operation, or by a 9 VDC AC adapter.

Does the Korg Microsampler come with any software for editing and managing samples?

Yes, the Korg Microsampler includes free editor/librarian software that facilitates sample editing and management, enhancing the user experience.

Korg

Korg

Korg microSAMPLER Official Product Introduction

Video thumbnail for Korg microSAMPLER Official Product Introduction by Korg

Korg microSAMPLER Official Product Introduction

Korg

Korg

Video thumbnail for Korg microSampler - SonicLAB Review by sonicstate

Korg microSampler - SonicLAB Review

sonicstate

sonicstate

Video thumbnail for Kraft Music Korg microSAMPLER Demo with Rich Formidoni by Kraft Music

Kraft Music Korg microSAMPLER Demo with Rich Formidoni

Kraft Music

Kraft Music

Video thumbnail for Korg microSAMPLER- Understanding the Five Sampling Modes- In The Studio with Korg by Korg

Korg microSAMPLER- Understanding the Five Sampling Modes- In The Studio with Korg

Korg

Korg

Video thumbnail for Bad Gear - Korg microSAMPLER - The Lost Sampler??? by AudioPilz

Bad Gear - Korg microSAMPLER - The Lost Sampler???

AudioPilz

AudioPilz

Video thumbnail for Korg Microsampler - Things you should know by Gearfacts

Korg Microsampler - Things you should know

Gearfacts

Gearfacts

Video thumbnail for Korg MicroSampler Walkthrough Video: So Many Modes, So Much Sampling Time (Video) by gearwire

Korg MicroSampler Walkthrough Video: So Many Modes, So Much Sampling Time (Video)

gearwire

gearwire

Video thumbnail for KORG microSAMPLER by SoundRecordingJP

KORG microSAMPLER

SoundRecordingJP

SoundRecordingJP

Video thumbnail for Korg Micro Sampler im Test bei MusikMachen.de by musikmachen.de

Korg Micro Sampler im Test bei MusikMachen.de

musikmachen.de

musikmachen.de

Reviews

PROS

  • Various sampling modes for versatile capture

  • Onboard sequencer aids in pattern sketching and key automation

  • Fluid functionality between different parts

  • Software editor enhances user experience

  • Compact and portable design suitable for live use

  • Excellent for triggering pre-loaded samples creatively

CONS

  • Recessed buttons and right-aligned controls are cumbersome

  • Lacks a mod or pitch wheel for sound modulation

  • Display could be improved for better user flexibility

  • Menu navigation and control could be more intuitive

Owner Insights

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

Value and pricing

  • Initially overpriced at $800, it now retails for about $200 used, offering unique sampling features at a more accessible price point.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Akai MPC Key models offer more versatility for users needing a sampler keyboard, despite being more complex for simple tasks.

    Source
  • The microSAMPLER's cold, digital ADCs struggle with analog synths, contrasting with the warmer sounds of Mirage or DSS-1 samplers.

    Source
  • The Korg Modwave and Wavestate are alternatives, capable of loading user samples, though they lack drum pads.

    Source

User experience

  • MIDI implementation is limited, necessitating the microSAMPLER to be the first device in a chain to properly sync loops.

    Source
  • Owners find the microSAMPLER's project management cumbersome, requiring users to remember intricate key combinations and workflow details.

    Source
  • Despite its flaws, owners appreciate its 14-note polyphony and multitimbral capabilities, allowing keyboard and beatbox samples on separate MIDI channels.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The microSAMPLER processes samples and adds effects slowly, which can hinder real-time performance or workflow efficiency.

    Source
  • The microSAMPLER's memory is very limited, making it challenging for extensive sample libraries or complex projects.

    Source
  • The microSAMPLER's sequencer is considered weak, with real-time recording being more effective than its structured sequencing capabilities.

    Source
  • It lacks crossfading and zero point ending for loops, causing noticeable clicks during sample playback.

    Source
  • The microSAMPLER allows sample start/stop point adjustments by percentage or byte, aiding in precise sample manipulation.

    Source
  • Sonicware's upcoming Smpltrek could serve as a successor to the microSAMPLER, providing a similar sampling experience.

    Source

Other

  • It was intended as a portable ASR10-like sampler but fell short due to an inadequate sequencer and lack of critical looping features.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The microSAMPLER's 32-bit editing software is incompatible with modern computers; Edisyn is a free alternative editor that supports the microSAMPLER.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners find it excellent for in-the-field sampling, being portable, battery-powered, and durable with recessed knobs.

    Source
  • Sonicware's Liven Lofi-12, released recently, is worth exploring as a potential microSAMPLER replacement for those seeking new sampling keyboards.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 4 Reviews and 22 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
patrick_richardson

lightweight TONs of fun.

The various sampling modes make it a breeze to capture what you want. The onboard sequencer can help not just sketching out patterns, but also automate the keys (to trigger sampling when armed). Each part leads to each other part, making for very fluid fun. The recessed buttons and putting all menu-diving and control/data knobs extreme right are a pain, but the software editor is slick and hepful. If they made a V2 "MACROsampler," I'd buy it !

From Gear Setup
shok
shok

1493

This does amazing things

A portable, sampler that, when coupled with the software editor, has great power. The sequencer and editing is good however a better display with more intuitive user flexibility would have made this one of the ultimate samplers! I have used it live mostly and it is quite compact and fun. There is no mod or pitch wheel.

jasonxcummings

Sampling powerhouse

Has been integral part of my studio for years now..great for when i just wanna have fun triggering samples that i have loaded up, to see what i come up with!

T

Korg Micro Sampler

i use this for stage Backtracking and sample library to keep audio dead zones free.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Mac DeMarco uses Korg Microsampler

Mac DeMarco

Singer, Guitarist

Mac DeMarco

...
Verified via YouTube

At 11:00 in this Live on KEXP performance, Mac Demarco can be seen playing at Korg Microsampler.

See how Connan Mockasin uses Korg Microsampler

Connan Mockasin

Singer, Guitarist

Connan and the Mockasins

...
Verified via YouTube

one of the guitarists/keyboard players uses this throughout the performance

See how Melody's Echo Chamber uses Korg Microsampler

Melody's Echo Chamber

Singer, Keyboardist

Tame Impala

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, Melody Prochet can be seen playing a Korg Microsampler.

See how Legowelt uses Korg Microsampler

Legowelt

Music Producer

...
Verified via Legowelt

On his official website, Legowelt showcases the Korg Microsampler as part of his synth collection.

See how Imogen Heap uses Korg Microsampler

Imogen Heap

Keyboardist, Composer

Frou Frou

...
Verified via YouTube

Seen on the right of screen in Imogen's studio (eg at 0:06 in the video), as she talks about her song Telemiscommunications, a collaboration with deadmau5.

See how Tobacco uses Korg Microsampler

Tobacco

Singer, Guitarist

Black Moth Super Rainbow

...
Verified via YouTube

In this live video (from KEXP), 'The Seven Fields of Aphelion' can be seen performing with a Sequential Prophet-6, Sequential Prophet-5 (desktop module), Korg Microsampler and a Akai MPX8 (sampler).

See how Jeff Rosenstock uses Korg Microsampler

Jeff Rosenstock

Singer, Guitarist

Bomb the Music Industry!

...
Verified

Jeff Rosenstock is confirmed to use the Korg Microsampler, as evidenced by a post on Instagram where he is seen using the instrument and further verifies it in the comments section. This gear has also appeared in several of his other posts.

See how Black Moth Super Rainbow uses Korg Microsampler

Black Moth Super Rainbow

Music Producer

Black Moth Super Rainbow

...
Verified via Flickr

In this Image, to left of ‘The Seven Fields of Aphelion’ can be seen a Korg Microsampler. Playing live at Austin Psych Fest, TX, US (2011).

See how Dan Briggs uses Korg Microsampler

Dan Briggs

Guitarist, Bassist

Between the Buried and Me

...
Verified via YouTube

He is shown with the synth the whole live show, korg ms1 microsampler

See how survive uses Korg Microsampler

survive

...
Verified via Impose Magazine

The Microsampler can be seen here and at around 0:40 in this video: https://youtu.be/VEIAxDTBZfs .

See how Michael Stein uses Korg Microsampler

Michael Stein

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

At 0:42 Michael Stein from band S U R V I V E shows his Korg Microsampler.

See how Jacco Gardner uses Korg Microsampler

Jacco Gardner

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

"Jacco playing the Pianet N with Microsampler on top for mellotron sounds "

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 Microsampler, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

Show yours
maup_meulman

maup_meulman

Gear IQ 70

patrick_richardson

patrick_richardson

Gear IQ 833

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