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Average Price: $347
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$500
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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
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What are the sampling rates available on the Korg Microsampler?
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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.
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How many samples can each bank hold on the Korg Microsampler?
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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).
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Is the Korg Microsampler polyphonic, and if so, how many voices does it support?
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Yes, the Korg Microsampler is polyphonic, supporting up to 16 voices, which allows for rich and layered sound production.
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What kind of effects does the Korg Microsampler offer?
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The Korg Microsampler includes 21 different effects such as Compressor, Filter, 4-Band EQ, Distortion, Reverb, and various Delays, providing versatile sound shaping options.
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Can the Korg Microsampler be powered by batteries?
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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.
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Does the Korg Microsampler come with any software for editing and managing samples?
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Yes, the Korg Microsampler includes free editor/librarian software that facilitates sample editing and management, enhancing the user experience.
Videos
Korg
Korg microSAMPLER Official Product Introduction
Reviews
PROS
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Various sampling modes for versatile capture
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Onboard sequencer aids in pattern sketching and key automation
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Fluid functionality between different parts
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Software editor enhances user experience
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Compact and portable design suitable for live use
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Excellent for triggering pre-loaded samples creatively
CONS
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Recessed buttons and right-aligned controls are cumbersome
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Lacks a mod or pitch wheel for sound modulation
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Display could be improved for better user flexibility
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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
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Initially overpriced at $800, it now retails for about $200 used, offering unique sampling features at a more accessible price point.
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Comparisons
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The Akai MPC Key models offer more versatility for users needing a sampler keyboard, despite being more complex for simple tasks.
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The microSAMPLER's cold, digital ADCs struggle with analog synths, contrasting with the warmer sounds of Mirage or DSS-1 samplers.
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The Korg Modwave and Wavestate are alternatives, capable of loading user samples, though they lack drum pads.
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User experience
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MIDI implementation is limited, necessitating the microSAMPLER to be the first device in a chain to properly sync loops.
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Owners find the microSAMPLER's project management cumbersome, requiring users to remember intricate key combinations and workflow details.
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Despite its flaws, owners appreciate its 14-note polyphony and multitimbral capabilities, allowing keyboard and beatbox samples on separate MIDI channels.
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Features and functionality
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The microSAMPLER processes samples and adds effects slowly, which can hinder real-time performance or workflow efficiency.
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The microSAMPLER's memory is very limited, making it challenging for extensive sample libraries or complex projects.
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The microSAMPLER's sequencer is considered weak, with real-time recording being more effective than its structured sequencing capabilities.
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It lacks crossfading and zero point ending for loops, causing noticeable clicks during sample playback.
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The microSAMPLER allows sample start/stop point adjustments by percentage or byte, aiding in precise sample manipulation.
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Sonicware's upcoming Smpltrek could serve as a successor to the microSAMPLER, providing a similar sampling experience.
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Other
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It was intended as a portable ASR10-like sampler but fell short due to an inadequate sequencer and lack of critical looping features.
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Software and compatibility
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The microSAMPLER's 32-bit editing software is incompatible with modern computers; Edisyn is a free alternative editor that supports the microSAMPLER.
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Use cases and applications
4.5 out of 5
Based on 4 Reviews and 22 Ratings
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 !
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.
244
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!
339
Korg Micro Sampler
i use this for stage Backtracking and sample library to keep audio dead zones free.
Artist usage
Add artist
At 11:00 in this Live on KEXP performance, Mac Demarco can be seen playing at Korg Microsampler.
On his official website, Legowelt showcases the Korg Microsampler as part of his synth collection.
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.
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).
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.
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).
The Microsampler can be seen here and at around 0:40 in this video: https://youtu.be/VEIAxDTBZfs .
Album Usage
The Korg Microsampler has been featured on the following albums:
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
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