Korg NS5R

4.5 (3)

1 Critic Review

1 Review

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Page last updated Aug 10, 2025

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Description

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Unleash a world of sonic possibilities with the Korg NS5R, a versatile sound module that has earned its place in the hearts of musicians and producers alike. As part of the renowned X5 series, the NS5R stands out with its impressive array of features, designed for both studio use and live performance. Equipped with the AI2 Synthesis System, the NS5R delivers rich and dynamic sounds that cover a wide range of musical genres. Whether you're layering lush pads, crafting intricate leads, or adding depth with atmospheric effects, this module serves as a powerful tool in your musical arsenal.

The Korg NS5R offers a wide array of 936 programs and 384 combinations, ensuring that you have the right sound for any project. Its intuitive interface makes navigation and sound modification straightforward, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: your creativity. The module also integrates effortlessly with other MIDI devices, making it a seamless addition to any setup.

Ideal for both budding musicians and seasoned professionals, the Korg NS5R provides an exceptional balance of functionality and performance. Dive into its expansive sound library and discover the unique voice it can bring to your music.

Key Features:

AI2 Synthesis System for high-quality sound production
936 programs and 384 combinations
Extensive effects section including reverb, chorus, and delay
User-friendly interface for easy sound manipulation
MIDI compatibility for seamless integration into your setup
Compact design suitable for both studio and live performance

Videos

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magermunson

Korg NS5R/NX5R - On Board Demo

magermunson

Korg NS5R Synthesizer Factory Demo Songs

Sound Programming

Korg NS5R/NX5R with DreamBlaster S2

enilenis

JayB - Corgi [Progressive House track using Korg NS5R & X5DR]

JayB

KORG NS5R Demo

DearHoney 數位音樂工作室

JayB - November Sadness [Atmospheric Breakbeat on Korg NS5R]

JayB

Retro Synth Wave on the Korg NS5R

Synthesaurus Rex

Reviews

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Korg NS5R.

Features and functionality

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Adjusting to access the motherboard sounds requires setting MIDI channel 1 to port C and scrolling through presets on the keyboard.
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The NS5R is noted for having rich-sounding samples, particularly the strings, despite its poorly designed interface.
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Mods and upgrades

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To utilize the Yamaha XG sounds, it's necessary to send a specific Bank Select command: MSB 0 CC00 + LSB 64 CC20 + Program change.
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Software and compatibility

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The NS5R requires connection to a keyboard and specific MIDI channel adjustments to access the daughterboard sounds, as front panel controls alone are insufficient.
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Connection through a PC tracker and serial port driver, functional until Windows 98, was a past method for accessing certain sound functions.
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Comparisons

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The NS5R's sound, especially the saxophone patches, has been described as "Vangelical," suggesting a lush, synth-heavy quality similar to Vangelis' music.
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User experience

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The module is criticized for its awful filter and incomplete interface, contrasting negatively with other models in its range.
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Use cases and applications

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Owners appreciate the NS5R's ability to produce nice swells, which might appeal to those looking for expressive dynamics in their music.
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Critic Reviews

Korg NS5R

soundonsound.com

Korg's NS5R is a powerful synth module that delivers an impressive array of sounds and a user-friendly interface, making it a joy to operate. With 1177 programs and 512 combinations, it excels in versatility, especially for those seeking quality over quantity. However, it falters with only two outputs, limiting its multitimbral capabilities. While the effects section is strong, some sounds—like certain violins—miss the mark. Overall, the NS5R stands out for its ease of use and solid sound quality, appealing to both novices and seasoned musicians.

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 3 Ratings

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alicegrimaude

116

almost 6 years ago

Interesting little module for its price point

This little module contains a mixed bag of recycled samples from Korg's M1 and Wavestation romplers, but manages to punch far above its weight in some areas. Not an all-around perfect machine, but it's got a beautiful kind of sound either way under the right circumstances.

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Genres:

Stage & Screen Metal Soundtrack

Artist usage

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Michael Bradford

Guitarist, Composer

Uncle Kracker Band

Verified via Soundonsound

Michael Bradford's 'Chunky Style Gear'

A big, beefy guy with a penchant for making big, beefy‑sounding records, Michael Bradford aptly names his production company Chunky Style Music. Accordingly, he also has his own chunky style setup at a post‑production facility named Millennium Sound. Mostly MIDI‑related or used to run Pro Tools, this collection of equipment is pretty comprehensive:

Akai S1100 sampler.Alesis ADAT digital multitrack w/BRC.Apple Power Macintosh 9600 running a Digidesign Pro Tools 5.1 Mix Plus system.Casio RZ1 drum machine.Clavia Nord Rack and Nord Modular synthesizers.CM Automation Motormix.Compaq AP500 Pentium III with Windows NT running Pro Tools 5.0 Mix Plus System.Emu E6400 and Emax samplers, Orbit and Planet Phatt sound modules, and E‑Synth keyboard.Korg M1R and N5SR sound modules.Line 6 Pod and Bass Pod.Mackie HR824 hard disk recorder.Mackie HUI control surface.Mackie 3304 mixer.Yamaha FB01 sound module.