Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $266

Budget/Beginner

$500

$1501+

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Standard

High-end

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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
Synth Cloud

Synth Cloud

KORG N5 SYNTH | JAM

Video thumbnail for KORG N5 SYNTH | JAM by Synth Cloud

KORG N5 SYNTH | JAM

Synth Cloud

Synth Cloud

Video thumbnail for Korg N5: Budget Price, Studio Quality! - Sound Profile by Speedy DTM

Korg N5: Budget Price, Studio Quality! - Sound Profile

Speedy DTM

Speedy DTM

Video thumbnail for korg N5 demo by scoobychap1

korg N5 demo

scoobychap1

scoobychap1

Video thumbnail for Korg's N5 new millenium synth still sounds great! by Gearfacts

Korg's N5 new millenium synth still sounds great!

Gearfacts

Gearfacts

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

Setup and maintenance

  • Over time, button responsiveness can degrade, requiring potential maintenance or repair attention.

    Source
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4.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
speedydtm

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

spleentaste

good korg workstation and library sound

for the price, you could have the best of KORG in a small synth...

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Noisia uses Korg N5

Noisia

Music Producer

Noisia & Pacific

...
Verified via Dogsonacid

"korg n5, terratec tmp1 (x2), roland fp 8, korg sp 200"

See how Prok & Fitch uses Korg N5

Prok & Fitch

Music Producer

My Digital Enemy meets Prok & Fitch

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram photo, Prok & Fitch are seen using a Korg N5 in the studio while working on new music with DJ Mark Knight.

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 N5, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Terratec TMP1
Terratec TMP1 MIDI Keyboard Controllers
1
Roland fp-8
Roland fp-8 Synthesizers
1

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