Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $309

Budget/Beginner

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

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

1509

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 Jason Lytle uses Korg Microsampler

Jason Lytle

Singer

Grandaddy

...
Verified via NPR.org

In his Tiny Desk Concert featured on NPR, Jason Lytle uses a Korg Microsampler, visible on the desk throughout the performance.

See how Pharmakon uses Korg Microsampler

Pharmakon

Singer, Composer

...
Verified via Resident Advisor

I had some distortion pedals and a tape player. I would mess around with the speed on the tape player and put it through different pedals, and then have the Casio and the voice, and I had that setup for like five years before I upgraded to the Korg Microsampler, which is basically a grown up version of the Casio SK-5—without the lion and lasers sounds

See how Mark Farina uses Korg Microsampler

Mark Farina

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Attack Magazine

KORG MICROSAMPLER & OUTBOARD GEAR The Korg MicroSampler is a little sampling keyboard with nice loop breakdown features and on-board sequencing. It’s a different feel than the MPCs entirely.

See how Holy Other uses Korg Microsampler

Holy Other

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In this August 2012 image from Stereo Cafe Bar, Glasgow, the artist uses the Korg MS1 MicroSampler, which was released a few years prior.

See how Kyle O'Quin uses Korg Microsampler

Kyle O'Quin

Keyboardist, Composer

Portugal. The Man

...
Verified via YouTube

In the Indie88 Hidden Studio Sessions video, Kyle O'Quin of Portugal. The Man is seen using the Korg Microsampler at the 6:55 mark during performances of "Feel It Still" and "So Young."

See how Simon Saieg uses Korg Microsampler

Simon Saieg

Singer, Guitarist

Perras On The Beach

...
Verified via Twitter

In a Twitter post captioned "parte 1 de perras," Simon Saieg is shown using the Korg Microsampler.

D

Dave Fridmann

Music Producer

Mercury Rev

...
Verified via Soundonsound

Among the synths used on the album are an ARP 2600, a Yamaha CS60 and — delivered to Tarbox Road only weeks before the record's completion — the new Korg Microsampler. Needless to say, perhaps, all were treated and manipulated in various ways. "Of course,” Fridmann laughs. "You hear a sound and you're like, 'That's a great sound — can we get it a little better? Yeah, guess we're gonna have to do something weird to it…'

See how Negative Gemini uses Korg Microsampler

Negative Gemini

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Imgur

She used this sampler while touring with Kero Kero Bonito. The image is from before she came on stage.

See how Casiotone for the Painfully Alone uses Korg Microsampler

Casiotone for the Painfully Alone

Composer

...
Verified via Flickr

The silver Keyboard in this image is the Korg Microsampler you can tell because of the distinctive curved sides and recessed knobs. If you compare the layout with a picture of one you can see they line up, two chicken head knob two buttons then a screen.

See how Arthur Leadbetter uses Korg Microsampler

Arthur Leadbetter

Keyboardist

Squid

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video "Squid Full Set | From The Basement," Arthur Leadbetter, the keyboardist for Squid, is observed using a Korg Microsampler at the 6:34 mark. This performance was produced in collaboration with WeTransfer and Sonos Radio and includes tracks from Squid's album "Bright Green Field." The source of this footage is credited to the YouTube channel "From The Basement."

See how Noko (Ryōsuke Ōshima) uses Korg Microsampler

Noko (Ryōsuke Ōshima)

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

Noko (Ryōsuke Ōshima) uses the Korg Microsampler during a performance of "夜空の虫とどこまでも," as demonstrated in a video posted by unofficial【非公式】 on YouTube.

See how Céu uses Korg Microsampler

Céu

Singer

...
Verified via YouTube

At 6:41 of this MTV performance, Céu can be seen with a Korg Microsampler as part of her onstage gear.

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

More Korg Synthesizers

Korg Minilogue

$411.00 - $699.99

# 12

Rank

Aphex Twin King Krule Misha Mansoor
132 artists using
Korg MicroKORG

$385.00 - $530.00

# 16

Rank

Kevin Parker Joe Duplantier Frank Iero
324 artists using
Korg MS-20 Mini

$493.48 - $899.99

# 19

Rank

Kevin Parker Mike Shinoda Deadmau5
93 artists using
Korg microKORG XL+

$425.00 - $749.99

# 52

Rank

JPEGMAFIA Tobacco Neil Cicierega
19 artists using
Korg Volca Bass

$119.99 - $159.99

# 53

Rank

Richie Hawtin Eric Avery Amir Derakh
39 artists using
Korg PolySix

$99.99 - $1,100.00

# 73

Rank

Frank Ocean Roland Orzabal Swimming With Dolphins
75 artists using
Korg microKORG S

$444.00 - $749.99

# 88

Rank

Stu Mackenzie SEMATARY Arca
10 artists using
Korg Wavestate

$549.99 - $649.99

 
Jordan Rudess Vangelis Jean Michel Jarre
8 artists using
Korg Opsix

$329.00 - $417.95

 
Damon Albarn The Chemical Brothers Jordan Rudess
12 artists using
Korg Karma

$14.99 - $408.00

 
Phil Collins Rick Wakeman Tuomas Holopainen
29 artists using

Accessories & Related Items

Similar

Gear Guides