Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $425

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

Unveiling the Korg Prophecy, a legendary analog modeling synth from the 90s era that still holds a special place in the heart of musicians. Redefining the fusion of vintage and modern, it boasts fat sounding oscillators and realistically modeled filters. With the addition of digital patch storage, it effortlessly blends a classic touch with contemporary convenience. Not to mention, its capacity for physical modeling and FM synthesis which opens up avenues for a wide spectrum of sound explorations.

Key Features:

  • Analog modeling synth from the mid-90s
  • Fat sounding oscillators for robust sound generation
  • Realistically modeled filters for authentic sound shaping
  • Digital patch storage for modern convenience
  • Capable of physical modeling and FM synthesis for sound variety
  • 37 keys for extensive playability
  • Monophonic polyphony for focused sound design
  • Audio and MIDI I/O for versatile connectivity

Product specs

Brand Korg
Model Prophecy
Finish Silver
Year 1990s
Categories Digital Synthesizers, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital Digital
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Number of Keys 37 Keys
Polyphony 1 Voice

FAQs

Is the Korg Prophecy suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Korg Prophecy is designed for live use with its compact 37-key format and expressive controls, making it a great choice for musicians who need portability and versatility in sound for live performances.

What type of synthesis does the Korg Prophecy use?

The Korg Prophecy utilizes digital synthesis with virtual analog and physical modeling capabilities, allowing it to produce a wide range of unique and complex sounds.

Can the Korg Prophecy be integrated with modern MIDI setups?

Yes, the Korg Prophecy features MIDI Input, Output, and Through, making it compatible with modern MIDI setups for both studio and live environments.

Is the Korg Prophecy polyphonic?

No, the Korg Prophecy is a monophonic synthesizer, meaning it can play only one note at a time, which is ideal for lead sounds and expressive solos.

What kind of keyboard action does the Korg Prophecy have?

The Korg Prophecy features a synth action keyboard, which is light and fast, suitable for quick playing styles and expressive performance techniques.

Jexus (sounds-for-synths.com)

Jexus (sounds-for-synths.com)

Korg Prophecy | demo by Jexus / WC Olo Garb

Video thumbnail for Korg Prophecy | demo by Jexus / WC Olo Garb by Jexus (sounds-for-synths.com)

Korg Prophecy | demo by Jexus / WC Olo Garb

Jexus (sounds-for-synths.com)

Jexus (sounds-for-synths.com)

Video thumbnail for Korg prophecy Demo  I  No Talking by Alphacode Synth Demos & Custom Sound Banks

Korg prophecy Demo I No Talking

Alphacode Synth Demos & Custom Sound Banks

Alphacode Synth Demos & Custom Sound Banks

Video thumbnail for Bad Gear - Korg Prophecy by AudioPilz

Bad Gear - Korg Prophecy

AudioPilz

AudioPilz

Video thumbnail for KORG PROPHECY Synthesizer 1995 | NEW PATCHES | HD DEMO by AnalogAudio1

KORG PROPHECY Synthesizer 1995 | NEW PATCHES | HD DEMO

AnalogAudio1

AnalogAudio1

Video thumbnail for Korg Prophecy Demo (Part 1) by Perfect Circuit

Korg Prophecy Demo (Part 1)

Perfect Circuit

Perfect Circuit

Video thumbnail for From the Vault: Korg Prophecy Product Overview by Korg

From the Vault: Korg Prophecy Product Overview

Korg

Korg

Video thumbnail for Korg Prophecy In 2020 by Musician Paradise

Korg Prophecy In 2020

Musician Paradise

Musician Paradise

Video thumbnail for Korg Prophecy: The sounds by Gearfacts

Korg Prophecy: The sounds

Gearfacts

Gearfacts

Video thumbnail for Korg Prophecy Demo by Panu M Savolainen

Korg Prophecy Demo

Panu M Savolainen

Panu M Savolainen

Reviews

PROS

  • Realistic brass, reed, and string sounds through physical modeling

  • Extensive parameter options for in-depth sound customization

  • Compact size suitable for limited spaces

  • Unique, expressive flute sound patch available

  • Versatile as a controller with numerous options

  • Ideal for creating unconventional, "weird" synth sounds

  • Praised for use in early internet entertainment and iconic tracks

CONS

  • Monophonic, limiting polyphonic playability

  • Construction feels cheap, akin to a child's toy

  • Requires significant time to learn and program effectively

  • Some users find it difficult to integrate into music projects

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

  • The Prophecy's unique modulation roller/ribbon is essential to its character, unlike typical MIDI controllers.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Karma with EXB-MOSS card offers a more user-friendly experience compared to the Prophecy.

    Source
  • The Korg Z1 is seen as a larger, more expensive version of the Prophecy, offering similar sound capabilities.

    Source
  • Korg Triton with the MOSS board is an alternative that offers the Prophecy's DSP board functionality, but the MOSS board alone can cost around $400.

    Source

Build quality

  • The Prophecy is considered one of the cheapest feeling "professional" instruments by some users.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Prophecy's sound evokes a 90s tracker techno vibe, suitable for genres like Unreal Tournament or Command and Conquer.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The VST version of the Prophecy is praised for its polyphonic capabilities, which the original lacks.

    Source
  • Patch Base synth editor for iPads now supports Korg Prophecy, offering a practical option for programming patches.

    Source
  • Ctrlr and Midi Quest 12 are viable software options for editing Korg Prophecy patches, though Midi Quest's cost-effectiveness is debatable.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • A unique mod was found with harmonica buttons replacing the standard keyboard on a Prophecy, although it was considered overpriced.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Prophecies are available on eBay from Japan for under $500, but require an adapter for use.

    Source
  • Some Korg Triton models are priced lower than certain Prophecy listings, but ensure they include the MOSS board for comparable features.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Memory cards in the Prophecy function similarly to DX7 carts, primarily for patch storage and retrieval.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Korg Prophecy

soundonsound.com

Korg's Prophecy synthesizer is a groundbreaking blend of analog, FM, and physical modeling synthesis, all packed into a surprisingly affordable package. Its sheer synthesis power, including nine oscillator types and extensive real-time control, opens vast creative possibilities, making it a synthesizer in a league of its own. However, its complexity can be daunting, with an initially impenetrable interface that lacks a graphical display, potentially hindering ease of use. Despite minor limitations like its three-octave keyboard and challenging control navigation, the Prophecy's sonic capabilities and expressive depth set a new standard for synthesizers. Ideal for those seeking an instrument with unrivaled versatility and sound quality, this synth is a must-explore for serious musicians.

positive

Korg Prophecy

soundonsound.com

Korg's Prophecy synthesizer is an impressive monophonic solo instrument that balances affordability with a wide range of sound capabilities, including analogue, VPM, and physical modelling synthesis. Its compact size belies its powerful sound, offering searing leads and convincing wind and plucked instrument emulations. With real-time articulation through control wheels and a ribbon controller, it's versatile in performance. However, the lack of a built-in breath controller might limit some users. Overall, the Prophecy is a well-rounded, cost-effective synth poised to be a hit among musicians looking for diverse sound options without breaking the bank.

positive

Blast from the past: Korg Prophecy | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Korg Prophecy is a nostalgic blast from the past, celebrated for its pioneering role in the virtual analogue revolution. This single-voice synth is packed with performance-focused features, including a unique keyboard and expressive control options. However, its tacky '90s design and complex programming interface may deter some users. Despite these quirks, the Prophecy remains a beloved tool for artists seeking diverse sound possibilities, making it a noteworthy choice on the secondhand market.

positive
Add

4.0 out of 5

Based on 6 Reviews and 32 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
C

The sound of Future

The most agressive mono synth of the 90s. Best use with distortion wah in combo, i love the controls.

ecco_aqua

weird masterpiece

this is the weirdest sounding synth ever and in a great way. if only it wasnt monophonic and wasnt built like a kids playroom toy. the flute sound that comes stock on this is one of the most expressive synth patches ever made

mikefiction

Weird but cool

I had one for about 6 months and didn't super gel with it. I kinda wish I had one again to see what I would think of it now. I enjoyed playing it but it never made it into any track. Traded it plus a Micro Q for a Jupiter 6 and didn't regret it.

shok
shok

1509

A unique instrument with a bevy of expressive control

I picked this up second hand in 97 and it was utilized during the Lavender Hill Mob / newgrounds.com and FDA era of early internet entertainment. As a controller, it came before most in terms of the amount of options possible. The sounds are like dreams if you dive deep, which you can!

P

It's a BEAST...!!!

I fell in love with this synth back in the 90's during the rave movement... It's still a beast of a synth. If you are into riding the outer edge of insanity (much like one might do with any of 'the Access Virus' machines), then this synth might give you what your appetite has been craving...

deepsignalstudios

Should explore more

It is very hard to program but I should explore mine more now that there is an editor http://ctrlr.org/710 It has the most realistic sax and trumpet type sounds short of using samples. Famously used by The Prodigy for most of the synth sounds on Firestarter and Smack My Bitch Up.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kurt Ader KApro uses Korg Prophecy

Kurt Ader KApro

...
Verified via Facebook

Kurt Ader KApro is associated with the Korg Prophecy synthesizer, as evidenced by his Facebook page.

See how Überzone uses Korg Prophecy

Überzone

Music Producer

...
Verified via Academic Dictionaries and Encyclopedias

the Korg Prophecy is on the Instrument List on this article

See how Mark Isham uses Korg Prophecy

Mark Isham

Composer

...
Verified via Soundonsound

Not that Isham has entirely forsaken his 'synthetic' past — far from it, in fact. Even his beloved analogue collection — now expanded to incorporate an Oberheim Xpander, a Roland MKS80 with MPG80 programmer, and a rare Moog Model 12, one of those 'big modular Moogs' he once admired from afar — regularly gets a look in: "I just did an entire film score that used the 2600, MIDI'd via an old Roland MPU101 MIDI‑CV converter" says Isham, with a hint of bravado. Isham's studio also contains an extensive selection of more modern synths. Of his Korg Trinity Plus, Z1, Prophecy, Wavestation A/D and ubiquitous M1, Roland JD800, and newly acquired, knob‑laden Access Virus, the latter is currently proving most agreeable with the composer.

See how Ronski Speed uses Korg Prophecy

Ronski Speed

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

Korg Prophecy on his desk

See how Sascha Dikiciyan uses Korg Prophecy

Sascha Dikiciyan

Composer

...
Verified via Time+Space

"I use mainly PCs, running Steinberg’s Cubase 6.5. My audio IO is a RME fireface. I just added a Dangerous Music D-Box to my setup so I’m finally enjoying the advantages of summoning mixing. Before the audio goes back into my DAW, I run everything through my Obsidian Compressor. It’s a simple but solid and good-sounding chain. I still use real keyboards, like the Korg MS2000, Korg Prophecy, Juno-106 and I’ve used a real CS-80 for my score on Mass Effect 3. I love the newer, more experimental synths like the OP-1 and all of the synths from Dave Smith. There are tons of other hardware gems I use, like Metasonix pedals and the Moog Froggers to name a few."

T

Tim Baker

Singer

Cirith Ungol

...
Verified via MusicTech

Ranging from Korg’s classic Prophecy and MS2000 to the Moog Sub 37, Timo’s synths cover most bases…

See how Ernst Horn uses Korg Prophecy

Ernst Horn

Keyboardist, Composer

Deine Lakaien

...
Verified via Photo

As can be seen in the official photo shoot of the Blackfield Fesitval of 2015, Ernst Horn is using a Korg Prophecy for the live performance.

See how Tyson Leslie uses Korg Prophecy

Tyson Leslie

Singer, Keyboardist

Vixen

...
Verified via BandMix.com

Tyson Leslie, a distinguished keyboardist, is verified to include the Korg Prophecy synthesizer in his array of musical instruments. This factual detail is substantiated through an inventory list featured on BandMix.com, which catalogs Leslie's equipment.

See how Franny Griffiths uses Korg Prophecy

Franny Griffiths

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Space

...
Verified via Photo

Franny used a Prophecy whilst performing with Space in 1998.

J

JS Clayden

Singer

Pitchshifter

...
Verified via Archive

Used for www.pitchshifter.com, as stated in a news post on Pitchshifter's website announcing its auction.

The latest of the Pitchshifter online silent auctions is not a guitar, but it is the piece of musical equipment that defined the Pitchshifter sound, and also helped to usher in the "Rocktronica Era" of British music in the 90s. It is the synthesizer, affectionately named "Genie" by the band, on which they created the lead line for the song "Genius" (along with many parts for other tracks on the "www.pitchshifter.com" album).

This is a physically synthesizer, not a virtual synth (i.e. it has a keyboard and a power supply and you can actually touch it--it won't work on your iPod).

When asked about the synth, JS said: "The Korg Prophecy Solo Synth was revolutionary in it's time. It had a very forward-facing control surface in the form of a ribbon, and some great 303 sounds to go with it.

The sound for the song "Genius" came from cranking a 303 patch to the point of harmonic distortion and then playing the filter across the ribbon to keep the tone rising after the initial note-hit.

Although we have many fond memories of this synth, as with some of the previous guitar auctions, there's only so much equipment we can physically house in PSI Studios and still close the doors. The time has come for Genie to take the long walk."

This silent auction contains:

  • Pitchshifter's very own Korg Prophecy (including original Pitchshifter-programmed "Genius" patch!)
  • 512 Memory Card
  • Original Korg Prohpecy Manual
  • Signed letter of authenticity confirming that the song "Genius," and the "www.pitchshifter.com" album, was written and performed on this exact machine

As in our prior auctions, you can bid by sending an email with the words "Silent Auction" in the subject line, also containing your bid amount, full legal name, and mailing address in the body of the email to: music [at] psirecords.com.

Bidding in this auction will close on February 22nd, 2010 unless the auction is ended early.

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

E-mu Vintage Keys
E-mu Vintage Keys Sound Modules
5
Roland JD-800
Roland JD-800 Synthesizers
4
Roland MKS-80 Super Jupiter
Roland MKS-80 Super Jupiter Synthesizers & Sound Modules
4
Roland JV-2080 Synthesizer Module
Roland JV-2080 Synthesizer Module Synthesizers & Sound Modules
3
Akai S3200
Akai S3200 Audio Samplers
3
Kurzweil K2000
Kurzweil K2000 Synthesizers
3
Roland MPG-80
Roland MPG-80 Synthesizers & Sound Modules
3
Roland JD-990
Roland JD-990 Synthesizers & Sound Modules
3

Community setups

Show yours
C

christopher_steller

Gear IQ 72

wintersunproject

wintersunproject

Gear IQ 230

A

alex1234

Gear IQ 65

More Korg Synthesizers

Korg Minilogue

$411.00 - $699.99

# 12

Rank

Aphex Twin King Krule Misha Mansoor
133 artists using
Korg MicroKORG

$379.00 - $530.00

# 16

Rank

Kevin Parker Joe Duplantier Frank Iero
324 artists using
Korg MS-20 Mini

$493.48 - $899.99

# 19

Rank

Kevin Parker Mike Shinoda Deadmau5
93 artists using
Korg microKORG XL+

$425.00 - $749.99

# 52

Rank

JPEGMAFIA Tobacco Neil Cicierega
19 artists using
Korg Volca Bass

$119.99 - $159.99

# 53

Rank

Richie Hawtin Eric Avery Amir Derakh
39 artists using
Korg PolySix

$99.99 - $1,100.00

# 73

Rank

Frank Ocean Roland Orzabal Swimming With Dolphins
75 artists using
Korg microKORG S

$444.00 - $749.99

# 88

Rank

Stu Mackenzie SEMATARY Arca
10 artists using
Korg Wavestate

$549.99 - $649.99

 
Jordan Rudess Vangelis Jean Michel Jarre
8 artists using
Korg Opsix

$329.00 - $417.95

 
Damon Albarn The Chemical Brothers Jordan Rudess
12 artists using
Korg Karma

$14.99 - $408.00

 
Phil Collins Rick Wakeman Tuomas Holopainen
29 artists using

Accessories & Related Items

Similar

Gear Guides