Korg Monologue Black

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$277.00 to $449.99 Price Tier: Budget

4.5 (41)

3 Critic Reviews

9 Reviews

All time low price

Find out who is using Korg Monologue

12 community setups

15 wishlisted

128 saved

Page last updated Jun 05, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 10 stores. Prices updated June 4, 2026.

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5.0 (24)

$449.99

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5.0 (13)

$399.99

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4.7 (326)

$399.99

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5.0 (87)

$287.14 42 available New

$252.75 15 available Used

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4.0 (11)

$449.99 $399.99 $50.00 · All time low

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4.0 (3)

$369.99

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5.0 (8)

$449.99 $399.99 $50.00 · All time low

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4.6 (116)

$280.00 $277.00 $3.00 · All time low

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£247.00

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$449.99

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Average Price: $369

Budget/Beginner

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

In the Synthesizers category, Korg Monologue Black is priced in the Budget/Beginner range. This is great gear to get started with or for creators on a budget.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 8 merchants for "Korg Monologue Black". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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Introducing the Korg Monologue Black, a fully programmable analog monophonic synthesizer that's designed to fit seamlessly into any musician's toolkit. Crafted with a sleek layout and a knob-per-function workflow, this unit is all about versatility and ease of use. Inspired by the renowned minilogue, the monologue features a new 2-pole VCF for added bite and an analog Drive circuit for extra punch and richness. The 25-key version of the key bed is laid out E to E, making it perfect for both keyboard and guitar players.

The monologue comes with a powerful 16-step sequencer with a dedicated button per step for easy editing, allowing you to create everything from crushing basses to crisp leads and complex rhythmic soundscapes. The sequencer also offers on-the-fly transposition via key triggering, giving you the freedom to create and adjust your music on the fly.

With the monologue, you're not just getting a synthesizer - you're getting a fully integrated music-making machine. It can play in time and integrate seamlessly with KORG volcas, electribes, minilogue and SQ-1, and can be used with your DAW as both a USB MIDI controller or a versatile analog voice.

Key Features: - Fully programmable analog monophonic synthesizer - 25-Key version of the key bed laid out E to E - 16-Step sequencer with on-the-fly transposition - 2-Pole VCF and new analog Drive circuit - 100 program locations (80 preset + 20 user) - Ability to save up to 12 custom scales with Micro Tuning - Audio Sync connectivity for integration with KORG volcas, electribes, minilogue and SQ-1 - Can be used with DAW as both a USB MIDI controller or a versatile analog voice - Powered by 6 AA batteries or external power supply (not included) - Durable build with aluminum panel, bolted metal shaft pots, and rubber-coated knobs - Unique OLED display with a real working oscilloscope.

Owner's manual

Korg Monologue Black User Manual

Product specs

Type	Keyboard Synthesizer with Sequencer
Sound Engine	Analog
Number of Keys	25
Type of Keys	Synth Action, Slim-keys
Velocity Sensitive	Yes
Polyphony	Monophonic
Number of Presets	100 programs (80 factory, 20 user presets)
Oscillators	2 x VCO (square, triangle, sawtooth), 1 x LFO
Effects Types	Analog Drive distortion
Sequencer	16-step
Audio Inputs	1 x 1/4"
Audio Outputs	1 x 1/4" (audio out)
Headphones	1 x 1/4"
USB	1 x Type B
MIDI I/O	In/Out
Other I/O	2 x 1/8" Sync in/out
Features	Micro Tuning, OLED oscilloscope screen
Power Source	9V DC power supply (sold separately) / 6 x AA batteries
Height	2.99"
Width	13.78"
Depth	10.87"
Weight	3.7 lbs.

FAQs

Is the Korg Monologue Black suitable for live performances?: Yes, the Korg Monologue Black is well-suited for live performances, thanks to its compact design, robust build, and intuitive controls. Its 16-step sequencer and 100 programmable presets provide versatility and ease of use on stage.
What kind of sound can I expect from the Korg Monologue Black?: The Korg Monologue Black offers a rich monophonic analog sound with a variety of tones, from warm basses to cutting leads, thanks to its two VCOs and analog drive distortion. It's ideal for electronic, pop, and experimental music.
Does the Korg Monologue Black have built-in effects?: Yes, the Korg Monologue Black features an analog drive distortion effect, which adds grit and character to your sound, enhancing its expressive capabilities.
Can the Korg Monologue Black be powered by batteries?: Yes, the Korg Monologue Black can be powered by six AA batteries, making it highly portable for on-the-go music creation.
How does the Korg Monologue Black connect to other gear?: The Korg Monologue Black offers MIDI In/Out, USB connectivity, and 1/8" sync in/out ports, allowing seamless integration with other synthesizers, DAWs, and music production setups.
Is the Korg Monologue Black suitable for beginners?: Yes, the Korg Monologue Black is user-friendly and suitable for beginners, with its straightforward interface and visual OLED oscilloscope screen aiding in sound design and learning synthesis basics.

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Korg Monologue Black

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Reviews

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PROS

Analog sound offers deep, massive tones
Intuitive interface with hands-on control for most parameters
Portable and lightweight, easy to integrate into setups
Versatile for both beginners and experienced synthesists
Excellent for bass tones and acid-like sequences
Built-in sequencer and preset memory add value
Can be battery-powered for on-the-go use
Works well with external effects and pedals
Solid construction despite low price point
Unique features like microtuning and oscilloscope add creative possibilities

CONS

Plastic body feels cheap, lacks durability
Lacks power supply, necessitating additional purchase
Mini keybed may be uncomfortable for some players
Some find the sound hard to mix without EQ adjustments
Limited to 100 patches, which may restrict sound design
Drive feature deemed too aggressive by some users
Noticeable re-triggering issues affecting smooth playability

Owner Insights

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

Comparisons

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The Monologue is often compared to synths like the Roland SH-3A for its lush sounds but praised for added portability and advanced features.
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The Sonicware Liven series offers polyphony and multi-track sequencing, catering to those seeking comprehensive groovebox capabilities, unlike the Monologue's monophonic focus.
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The Novation Bass Station 2 offers aftertouch and a more refined interface but lacks the Monologue's battery operation and immediate performance appeal, making each suitable for different user preferences.
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The Monologue's oscilloscope is highly valued for visualizing waveform changes, offering a learning advantage over synths like the Microkorg.
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The Arturia Microfreak offers a more diverse range of digital sound design options, but lacks the Monologue's build quality and analog sound character.
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Features and functionality

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The Monologue's sequencer is highlighted for its ease of use and immediacy, making it a favored choice for live tweaking and experimentation without needing a DAW.
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The Monologue is the only synth among its peers that can run on batteries, adding a layer of portability for spontaneous jamming and performances.
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The Monologue features a single envelope, limiting separate settings for filter and amp, but its sequencer acts like extra LFOs for creative modulation.
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The ring modulation and high LFO frequencies are highlighted for creating diverse sounds, from "Klings and Klangs" to rich bass and vowel-like tones.
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Reducing step resolution increases automation precision, allowing for more detailed sound design with the Monologue's sequencer.
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Value and pricing

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Used Monologue units are noted for maintaining strong value, suggesting a reliable resale market if one decides to upgrade or change gear.
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Some users capitalize on the Monologue's resale value, selling it for double their purchase price, indicating strong market demand.
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Use cases and applications

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Users appreciate the Monologue's grungier vibe compared to alternatives like the Novation Bass Station 2, making it particularly suited for raw, aggressive electronic music styles.
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The Monologue is favored for its portability and unique sound in live performance settings, often paired with delay pedals for enhanced effects.
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The Monologue excels in producing bass and lead sounds, particularly for electronic music styles, and is effective as a MIDI controller.
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User experience

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Owners frequently return to the Monologue, despite initially selling it, due to its unique learning curve and creative potential for synth newcomers.
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Some users report an intermittent "tuning oscillator" chime issue with early Monologue models, which may require contacting Korg support if encountered.
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Build quality

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The Monologue is praised for its robust construction with mostly metal and wood components, offering a luxury feel compared to other synths in its price range.
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Critic Reviews

Korg Monologue

soundonsound.com

Korg's Monologue offers a surprisingly powerful synthesis experience in a compact package, making it a great choice for acid-style basslines and sequences. Its dual VCOs, drive circuit, and versatile sequencer set it apart, though the limited two-stage envelope and absence of a power adaptor can be disappointing. Despite these drawbacks, its micro-tuning options and parameter locks add depth, while its portability and affordability make it a strong contender in the monosynth market.

positive

Full Review

Review: Korg Monologue — AudioTechnology

audiotechnology.com

Korg's Monologue is praised as the best synth under $500, offering genuine analogue charm with impressive bass and lead sounds. It's lauded for its powerful motion sequencer and broad sonic palette, making it a dynamic choice for musicians seeking depth in a compact package. However, it lacks an arpeggiator and a dedicated portamento knob, which may disappoint some users. Overall, it stands out as a modern classic, combining robust hardware features with a touch of Aphex Twin's influence through its unique presets and microtonal capabilities. A solid choice for those looking to invest in a versatile and tactile synth experience.

positive

Full Review

Korg Monologue Review - The Minilogue's Little Mono Brother

musictech.com

The Korg Monologue is a compact, vibrant monosynth that impresses with its striking design and robust sound capabilities. Its standout features include a versatile sequencer and intuitive controls, making it easy to integrate into any setup. However, the small keys may not suit everyone, and the lack of an included power supply is a minor inconvenience. Despite these drawbacks, the Monologue offers exceptional value, especially given its analog character and creative potential. With contributions from Aphex Twin, its presets add a unique edge, cementing its status as a remarkable synth at an affordable price.

positive

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 9 Reviews and 41 Ratings

5 star

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lottielovesdogs

222

almost 8 years ago

Perfect beginner synthesiser

This is all-analogue and you can tell. Despite being a mono synth, it's plenty versatile to work with both lead and bass tones, the sequencer is incredibly intuitive and easy to use and sounds fantastic. It's only a little bit bigger than a laptop, weighs about the same and looks beautiful. If you want to get into the world of synthesisers this is the ideal starting point! :)

ozoneau

168

almost 7 years ago

Lots of useful.

Rabid and brash sound, great little sequencer, compact size and battery powered which has been useful. Its a little modern tb303 acid take and also goes well for bass and percussion.

kid_o

over 6 years ago

lovely

i love it. i sample the basic waveforms and edit the filter digitally. i also made an entire drumkit with the noise channel. just wish i could use sinewaves and map squarewaves to the second oscillator.

synrouge

about 5 years ago

Great basic mono synth

Very nice mono synth, compact and lightweight, a nice piece for your setup to get leads or bass role. It's great bang for the buck.

zane_green

100

over 7 years ago

Almost amazing

I love this synth and it is great for beginners considering the price, and it would be great for everyone else except it has an incredibly frustrating re-triggering issues, every time two notes overlap (including the release trail) an obvious pop sound occurs which renders it nearly unusable for any kind of immersive music

brad_omen

117

over 7 years ago

Really Simple Great sounding Mono Synth, Easy and fun to Program.

I love this little synth. The Sequencing is really intuitive. It sounds fantastic. It's simple to pick up but has some really cool buried features veteran synthesists would really appreciate.