Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $266
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
The Korg N5 is a powerhouse in the world of synthesizers, designed to cater to both studio musicians and live performers. This versatile synthesizer boasts an extensive range of sounds, making it a go-to choice for artists seeking both classic tones and modern versatility. With 61 semi-weighted keys, the Korg N5 provides a responsive and authentic playing experience, suitable for any style or genre.
Equipped with a substantial sound engine, the Korg N5 offers a wide array of voices, from lush pads and dynamic leads to intricate basses and realistic acoustic instrument simulations. Its intuitive interface includes a large LCD display, ensuring ease of navigation and sound editing, even during live performances. The synthesizer also features a built-in effects processor, allowing musicians to enhance their sound with reverb, delay, and modulation effects directly from the board.
MIDI connectivity is another highlight, making the Korg N5 an excellent choice for those who want to integrate it with other gear or computer setups. Whether you're composing, performing, or recording, the Korg N5 delivers reliability and a broad sonic palette that keeps creativity flowing.
Key Features:
- 61 semi-weighted keys for a responsive playing experience
- Extensive sound engine with a variety of voices including pads, leads, and basses
- Large LCD display for intuitive navigation and sound editing
- Built-in effects processor with reverb, delay, and modulation
- MIDI connectivity for seamless integration with other gear
- Suitable for studio work and live performances
Videos
Synth Cloud
KORG N5 SYNTH | JAM
Reviews
PROS
-
Exceptional soundset for its price range
-
Ideal for live applications without needing a sequencer or sampling
-
61 keys with aftertouch for expressive performances
-
Banks of sounds are easy to tweak and save
-
Built-in effects enhance sound quality
-
Retains relevance and utility over time
-
Unique, personality-filled sounds for nostalgic productions
CONS
-
Not suitable for those seeking modern, cutting-edge sounds
-
Limited by the absence of built-in sequencer and sampling capabilities
-
Shows its age in design and technology
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Korg N5.
Features and functionality
-
The N5EX lacks a digital output and onboard sequencer, and does not support USB-MIDI, limiting modern connectivity options.
Source -
The keybed on the N5EX is lighter compared to the Korg 01WFD, offering a different tactile experience.
Source -
The N5 has around 1200 presets with a haphazard categorization system, making it challenging to navigate the sound library efficiently.
Source -
Users note the N5 supports GM, XG, and SC sounds, enabling compatibility with various soundtracks, including video game music.
Source -
The digital filters in the N5 lack resonance, with a global resonant filter effect applied paraphonically, affecting sound customization capabilities.
Source
User experience
-
Some owners report unresponsive buttons over time, indicating potential durability issues with the interface.
Source -
The display is described as eye-searing with green, yellow, and orange colors, which can be visually overwhelming during use.
Source -
Owners describe the keybed as feeling cheap and flimsy compared to models like the M1, O1W, Triton, and TR series, affecting the playing experience.
Source
Comparisons
-
Sounds are less bright than modern romplers, attributed to the N5EX's 32kHz sample rate, which might not suit those seeking contemporary sound profiles.
Source -
The N5EX is likened to a scaled-down version of the Triton, with additional waveforms like the CP70 piano but lacking the power and realism of higher-end models.
Source
4.0 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 3 Ratings
254
90s cheese
If you're buying this looking for the greatest modern sounds ever, look elsewhere. If you're buying this in hopes of getting a digital synth booming with personality, you're in the right place. It's goofy, it's dated, but it's got some lovely sounds on it, and if you're trying to make something that feels old, this is a great pick. I did a full review on it here that covers everything in just over half an hour: https://youtu.be/tYP9Ds6ycqM
1151
good korg workstation and library sound
for the price, you could have the best of KORG in a small synth...
Artist usage
Add artistGenre 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 N5, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
More Korg Synthesizers
Accessories & Related Items
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Synthesizers
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
DdustbrigadeGear IQ 267
-