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Description

Introducing the Korg Prologue 16-Voice Analog Keyboard Synthesizer, a polyphonic powerhouse that marks a new pinnacle in Korg's recent analog synthesizer development. Crafted using 11,000 discrete electronic components, the Prologue 16 retains the user-friendly nature of its predecessors while delivering stunning, unparalleled sound quality.

The Prologue's sound architecture employs a 2VCO + MULTI ENGINE, 1VCF, 2EG, 1VCA, and 1LFO structure. It offers unique circuitry such as wave shaping for shaping the oscillator's overtones and a sync/ring switch. It also showcases features like a two-pole low pass filter with enhanced sharpness, powerful distortion drive, and a low cut (high pass) switch.

But the Prologue's true ingenuity extends beyond its analog design. The newly developed multi-engine, provided as VCO3, introduces digital waveforms and FM into the mix. This engine, equipped with three different sound engines, can be combined with the analog VCOs to expand the Prologue's sonic potential far beyond that of a traditional analog synthesizer.

Whether you're crafting fat basses, powerful leads, or beautiful pads, the Prologue 16 is your ticket to a vast world of analog synthesis.

Key Features:

  • 16 multitimbral voices
  • Structure of 2VCO + MULTI ENGINE, 1VCF, 2EG, 1VCA, and 1LFO
  • Distinctive, original circuitry with wave shaping and sync/ring switch
  • Two-pole low pass filter with enhanced sharpness
  • Drive for adding powerful distortion
  • Low cut (high pass) switch
  • Newly developed multi-engine with digital waveforms and FM
  • Noise generator with four types of noise
  • VPM (Variable Phase Modulation) / FM oscillator
  • User oscillator section for loading custom oscillator programs
  • High-quality digital effects with 24-bit floating-point processing
  • Two effect units (a modulation effect and delay/reverb)
  • User-customization with 16 user oscillator slots and 16 user effect slots
  • Analog comp/booster with exclusive VU meter (only on Prologue-16)
  • Bi-timbral, allowing for two different programs to be played simultaneously

Product specs

Brand Korg
Model Prologue 16 Polyphonic 61-Key 16-Voice Analog Synthesizer
Finish Black/Wood
Year 2018 - 2025
Categories Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital Analog
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Number of Keys 61 Keys
Polyphony 16 Voices

FAQs

Is the Korg Prologue 16-Voice Analog Synthesizer polyphonic?

Yes, the Korg Prologue 16-Voice is a polyphonic synthesizer, offering 16 voices which allow for complex chordal textures and rich soundscapes.

Does the Korg Prologue 16 have built-in effects?

Yes, the Korg Prologue 16 features built-in digital effects including modulation effects, reverb, and delay, which can be used to enhance your sound directly from the synth.

What type of keyboard action does the Korg Prologue 16 feature?

The Korg Prologue 16 features a synth-action keyboard, which is designed for fast and responsive play, suitable for both traditional and experimental synthesizer techniques.

Can the Korg Prologue 16 integrate with my DAW?

Yes, the Korg Prologue 16 can integrate with your DAW via MIDI Input, MIDI Output, and USB MIDI, making it compatible with most digital audio workstations.

Does the Korg Prologue 16 support layering sounds?

Yes, the Korg Prologue 16 supports layering sounds, allowing you to play two different programs simultaneously for richer and more complex performances.

Perfect Circuit

Perfect Circuit

Korg Prologue 16 Voice Sounds

Video thumbnail for Korg Prologue 16 Voice Sounds by Perfect Circuit

Korg Prologue 16 Voice Sounds

Perfect Circuit

Perfect Circuit

Video thumbnail for Synths That Time Forgot: Korg Prologue 16 Voice by Alamo Music Sound Lab

Synths That Time Forgot: Korg Prologue 16 Voice

Alamo Music Sound Lab

Alamo Music Sound Lab

Video thumbnail for Synth Stuff Ep. 52 - Korg Prologue 16 by tritonrecordings

Synth Stuff Ep. 52 - Korg Prologue 16

tritonrecordings

tritonrecordings

Video thumbnail for Korg Prologue 16 Polyphonic Analog Synth - Overview & Demo by PMTVUK

Korg Prologue 16 Polyphonic Analog Synth - Overview & Demo

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Let's play | Korg Prologue 16 | Analogue Synthesizer | Thomann by Thomann's Guitars & Basses

Let's play | Korg Prologue 16 | Analogue Synthesizer | Thomann

Thomann's Guitars & Basses

Thomann's Guitars & Basses

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique sound with a perfect modern analog blend

  • High-quality build and beautiful design that encourages play

  • Wide variety of sound possibilities for full-sounding tracks

  • High-quality effects comparable to more expensive synths

  • Offers deep sound exploration with user oscillator and split/layer functions

  • Ideal for creating both phat and light sounds

  • Competitive price for its sound quality and capabilities

  • Flagship VCO synth with plenty of voices

  • Multi-engine oscillator adds immense depth

  • Resolved tuning issue enhances reliability

CONS

  • Requires warming up before tuning, approximately 20 minutes

  • Limited by a single LFO, could benefit from more modulation options

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Korg Prologue 16-Voice Analog Keyboard Synthesizer.

Features and functionality

  • The Prologue's multi-engine can be cumbersome due to limited controls, but user oscillators integrating front panel controls ease workflow.

    Source
  • There is a desire for a Minilogue-style sequencer in the Prologue, as its absence limits modulation capabilities, according to some users.

    Source
  • The Prologue's low comp control is specifically noted for enhancing its sound, offering a beefed-up audio presence that users appreciate.

    Source
  • The sound librarian feature is highlighted as essential for managing the Prologue's extensive sound capabilities, adding to its usability.

    Source
  • The Prologue includes a user-installable third digital oscillator that enhances sound diversity, making it more versatile than typical analog synths.

    Source
  • The Prologue 16 can receive aftertouch from an external controller, enhancing its expressiveness despite lacking native aftertouch.

    Source
  • The Prologue’s built-in compressor is frequently highlighted as a valuable feature, enhancing sound quality and versatility in live performances.

    Source

User experience

  • Despite initial tuning issues, firmware updates have rectified these problems, and users now report a stable and reliable playing experience.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the keyboard's feel and build quality, describing it as robust and well-constructed, suitable for both performance and studio use.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Users compare the Prologue favorably against the Novation Summit and Peak, citing its immediate and natural sound profile that requires less modulation.

    Source
  • The Prologue's keybed is praised for its quality compared to the System 8, which feels more plasticky and has shorter keys.

    Source
  • Despite limited modulation, the Prologue competes with more expensive synths like Moog One 16, offering a vintage and modern sound balance.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners recommend exploring third-party oscillators like those from Tim Shoebridge to significantly expand the Prologue's sound palette.

    Source
  • Users recommend using an expression pedal for dynamic control, suggesting it compensates for the absence of aftertouch.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • It's considered one of the best deals in the used market, often available for under $1,000, making it a strong contender against higher-priced synths.

    Source
  • Owners find the Prologue 16 a strong value alternative to pricier models like the OB-6 and Prophet 6, offering comparable sound quality at a lower cost.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The Prologue benefits from user-created effects like the Juno chorus available from sources such as GitHub, expanding its sonic palette.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Users report that firmware updates have resolved initial tuning instability issues, making the Prologue more reliable over time.

    Source

Other

  • The Prologue's filter is often compared to the MS20, praised for its grit and growl, adding a unique character to the sound profile.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Many users utilize the Prologue for its ability to produce massive mono synth sounds, leveraging its split and layer functionality for dynamic performances.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Korg Prologue

soundonsound.com

Korg’s Prologue 16-Voice Analog Keyboard Synthesizer offers an appealing blend of vintage analog charm and modern digital versatility. While its hybrid nature might not satisfy purists, the Prologue excels with its impressive sound quality, thanks to its unique combination of analog VCOs and digital oscillators. The build is solid and stylish, and the range of onboard effects is commendable. However, its simplicity could be seen as a limitation, especially with a non-standard MIDI CC map and lack of aftertouch. Despite these drawbacks, the Prologue stands out as a robust and characterful polysynth, deserving of its flagship status.

positive

Review: Korg Prologue 16 — AudioTechnology

audiotechnology.com

Korg's Prologue 16 synthesizer impresses with 16-voice polyphony, superb sound, and solid build quality. The inclusion of a digital Multi-Engine oscillator adds versatility, making it a powerhouse for both classic and modern tones. However, it lacks a modulation matrix and aftertouch, which may limit its appeal for some. Despite these downsides, the Prologue 16 shines as a live performance synth, offering a rich, warm sound palette and robust features that will likely make it a favorite among synth enthusiasts. Its high polyphony and quality construction position it as a modern classic in the making.

positive
Add

5.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 13 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
finetales

Heavenly!

I got obsessed with the Prologue the day it was announced, and when I finally got my hands on one it lived up to all my expectations. It sounds amazing and is a pleasure to play. Now that Korg has resolved the tuning issue this synth is epic!

thedarklands

top notch synth

this is one tasty looking synth, extremely well built in Japan, the sounds are amazing, this is one synth I would not sell..

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Toro y Moi uses Korg Prologue 16-Voice Analog Keyboard Synthesizer

Toro y Moi

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Google

Toro y Moi used the Korg Prologue 16-Voice Analog Keyboard Synthesizer during a live performance, as shown in a Google search result.

See how Jordan Rudess uses Korg Prologue 16-Voice Analog Keyboard Synthesizer

Jordan Rudess

Keyboardist, Composer

Dream Theater

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "Studio Tour- Piano and synths" by Jordan Rudess on YouTube, the Korg Prologue 16-Voice Analog Keyboard Synthesizer is visibly seen at 4:32, confirming its presence in his setup.

See how KAYTRANADA uses Korg Prologue 16-Voice Analog Keyboard Synthesizer

KAYTRANADA

Music Producer

KAYTRAMINÉ

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube video, Kaytranada can be seen playing to Korg Prologue at the 1:00 mark

See how Bruno Mars uses Korg Prologue 16-Voice Analog Keyboard Synthesizer

Bruno Mars

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Silk Sonic

...
Verified via Twitter

the synth on the right in the prologue (check the shape and where the red lights are)

See how Paul Meany uses Korg Prologue 16-Voice Analog Keyboard Synthesizer

Paul Meany

Singer, Keyboardist

MUTEMATH

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post, Paul Meany showcases the Korg Prologue 16-Voice Analog Keyboard Synthesizer in his studio while announcing the release of the "Voice In The Silence" EP.

See how Timecop1983 uses Korg Prologue 16-Voice Analog Keyboard Synthesizer

Timecop1983

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post by Timecop1983, the Korg Prologue 16-Voice Analog Keyboard Synthesizer is clearly visible. The artist mentions, "People often ask me what gear I use. Well, here's my studio! This is where I create all my music."

See how Roughton Reynolds uses Korg Prologue 16-Voice Analog Keyboard Synthesizer

Roughton Reynolds

Singer, Keyboardist

Enter Shikari

...
Verified via MusicRadar

In a 2019 Music Radar interview, Rou explains:

I started off, way back in the day, on the Kaoss Pad and the Electribe, and I just got the Prologue not so long ago, which is awesome.

However, it's not clear whether Rou uses the 8 or 16 voice version of the Korg Prologue.

See how Kishi Bashi uses Korg Prologue 16-Voice Analog Keyboard Synthesizer

Kishi Bashi

Singer, Keyboardist

Of Montreal

...
Verified via Instagram

Kishi Bashi uses the Korg Prologue 16-Voice Analog Keyboard Synthesizer, as confirmed by an Instagram post by Kishi Bashi himself, where he mentions programming the synthesizer for his tour.

See how Tomas Dolas uses Korg Prologue 16-Voice Analog Keyboard Synthesizer

Tomas Dolas

Keyboardist

Thee OhSees

...
Verified via YouTube

seen beside Tomas in this here van jam

See how Kurt Ader KApro uses Korg Prologue 16-Voice Analog Keyboard Synthesizer

Kurt Ader KApro

...
Verified via Facebook

Kurt Ader KApro is known to use the Korg Prologue 16-Voice Analog Keyboard Synthesizer. This information is supported by his Facebook profile, which highlights his involvement with this synthesizer.

See how Afordisman Salihins (Akordisman) uses Korg Prologue 16-Voice Analog Keyboard Synthesizer

Afordisman Salihins (Akordisman)

Guitarist, Drummer

Büyük Ev Ablukada

...
Verified via Photo
See how Valley uses Korg Prologue 16-Voice Analog Keyboard Synthesizer

Valley

Guitarist, Bassist

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram GIF, Rob is sitting in front of a Korg Prologue

Album Usage

The Korg Prologue 16-Voice Analog Keyboard Synthesizer has been featured on the following albums:

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 Prologue 16-Voice Analog Keyboard Synthesizer, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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