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Description

The Korg PS-3100 stands as a testament to the ingenuity of early analog synthesizers. Renowned for its polyphonic architecture, this vintage gem offers a unique sonic palette that has captivated musicians and sound designers alike. With its distinctive 48-note polyphony, the PS-3100 allows for complex chord structures and evolving textures that are hard to replicate with modern synths.

A key feature of the PS-3100 is its modular design, which provides unparalleled flexibility. Musicians can shape their sound with a variety of patch points and modulation options, making it a favorite for those who love to experiment. Its three voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs) per voice deliver a rich harmonic spectrum, while the built-in resonators add depth and character to your creations.

The intuitive control panel of the PS-3100, with its wealth of knobs and sliders, invites hands-on interaction, fostering a deep connection between the musician and the machine. Whether you're crafting lush pads or intricate leads, this synthesizer offers a tactile experience that is both rewarding and inspiring.

Key Features:

  • 48-note polyphonic architecture
  • Modular design with extensive patch points
  • Three voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs) per voice
  • Built-in resonators for added depth
  • Intuitive control panel with hands-on interaction
  • Versatile sound shaping capabilities

Product specs

Brand Korg
Model PS-3100 Polyphonic Synthesizer
Finish Wood
Year 1977
Made In Japan
Categories Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital Analog
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
Number of Keys 49 Keys
Polyphony 48 Voices

FAQs

Is the Korg PS-3100 synthesizer polyphonic or monophonic?

The Korg PS-3100 is a polyphonic synthesizer, offering 48 voices of polyphony, which allows for rich, full chords and complex sound textures.

What type of synthesis does the Korg PS-3100 use?

The Korg PS-3100 utilizes analog synthesis, providing warm, classic analog tones that are highly sought after by synthesizer enthusiasts.

How many keys does the Korg PS-3100 have, and what is the key size?

The Korg PS-3100 features 49 full-size keys, offering a standard keyboard feel with synth action, suitable for expressive playing.

What are the standout features of the Korg PS-3100's sound engine?

The PS-3100's sound engine is notable for its unique patching system and resonators, which allow for complex modulation and rich tonal variations.

Is the Korg PS-3100 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Korg PS-3100 is suitable for live performances, thanks to its polyphonic capabilities and robust build, though its vintage nature may require careful handling.

smem

smem

Obscure Objects Ep. 1: The Korg PS-3100.

Video thumbnail for Obscure Objects Ep. 1: The Korg PS-3100. by smem

Obscure Objects Ep. 1: The Korg PS-3100.

smem

smem

Video thumbnail for KORG PS-3100 - Synth Demo by synth4ever

KORG PS-3100 - Synth Demo

synth4ever

synth4ever

Video thumbnail for Exploding dusk - Ambient music on Korg PS-3100 by Francesco Poggianti

Exploding dusk - Ambient music on Korg PS-3100

Francesco Poggianti

Francesco Poggianti

Video thumbnail for Korg PS3100 by splitradix

Korg PS3100

splitradix

splitradix

Video thumbnail for Korg PS 3100 - Resonator Demo by DJjondent

Korg PS 3100 - Resonator Demo

DJjondent

DJjondent

Video thumbnail for Korg PS-3100 For Sale Fully Refurbished by Pro Vintage Synth Restoration Specialists PS-3300 PS3300 by tonetweakers

Korg PS-3100 For Sale Fully Refurbished by Pro Vintage Synth Restoration Specialists PS-3300 PS3300

tonetweakers

tonetweakers

Video thumbnail for Korg PS-3100 Demo / Korg PS-3300 Wanted to Buy PS3300 PS3100 by tonetweakers

Korg PS-3100 Demo / Korg PS-3300 Wanted to Buy PS3300 PS3100

tonetweakers

tonetweakers

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Korg PS-3100.

Features and functionality

  • The PS-3100 is a true polyphonic semi-modular synth with 12 oscillators and 48 voices, utilizing an octave divider for full polyphony.

    Source
  • Each key is equipped with its own envelope generator, VCA, and VCF, offering unique sound-shaping capabilities compared to paraphonic designs.

    Source
  • The PS-3100's 'sound modulator' might output a single sound if faulty, despite functional input and plug connections, indicating potential internal circuitry issues.

    Source
  • The Korg PS-3100 uniquely boasts one VCO per key, unlike most polysynths which share oscillators across voices.

    Source
  • True polyphonic architecture ensures each note has an independent signal path, differentiating it from paraphonic designs that share components.

    Source

Comparisons

  • It's noted that Korg's PS series remains unique as true polyphonic semi-modular synths, contrasting with other paraphonic options on the market.

    Source
  • In contrast to digital synths, the PS-3100's polyphony is hardware-based, not limited by computational power.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The PS-3100 can command prices over $10,000 in working condition, making it a highly valuable find.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Finding repair services for vintage synths like the PS-3100 can be challenging, but enthusiasts often offer help in specialized forums.

    Source
  • The 'card slots' holding voice and filter cards often crack over time, leading to connection issues, and original parts are difficult to find for replacement.

    Source
  • Manuals, including complete circuit diagrams, are critical resources. Locating these can be a valuable asset in troubleshooting and restoration efforts.

    Source
  • The PS-3100 requires regular maintenance due to complex circuitry and the aging of components, such as matched transistor pairs in VCFs.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Users recommend Full Bucket's free VST emulation of the PS-3100, 3200, and 3300 for those who cannot access the hardware.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report that refurbishing capacitors is a common step, even if not the direct cause of sound issues, as it generally improves reliability.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Nils Frahm uses Korg PS-3100

Nils Frahm

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

Can be seen in use in this video from the artist's studio.

See how Kraftwerk uses Korg PS-3100

Kraftwerk

Composer, Music Producer

Kraftwerk

...
Verified via Kraftwerkfaq

Kraftwerk has utilized the Korg PS-3100 synthesizer in their music production, as detailed in the Kraftwerk FAQ.

See how Ryuichi Sakamoto uses Korg PS-3100

Ryuichi Sakamoto

Keyboardist, Composer

Yellow Magic Orchestra

...
Verified via Sitesakamoto

Sakamoto discusses using the synth as part of his 1978 work "Memories of Nazca" "I mostly used a Korg PS-3100 for the recording. I loved this equipment back in the day—I even used it on the first YMO album. It was a pretty expensive synth, but I just went for it. Somehow these Korg and Roland circuits sound more Japanese compared to the Moog or ARP synths, even though in theory they are the same. You can hear what I’m talking about on the YMO pieces ‘Simoon’ and ‘Firecracker.’ From the second album, Solid State Survivor, our sound became sharper, but the first album really contained a lot of exotic sounds which all came from the Korg."

See how Olafur Arnalds uses Korg PS-3100

Olafur Arnalds

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

Mentioned at 21:40 in the video. "It's pretty much the only actual polyphonic synth ever made cause it has an oscillator for every key."

See how Junkie XL uses Korg PS-3100

Junkie XL

Composer, Music Producer

Tiësto vs. Junkie XL

...
Verified via YouTube

You can see it at 3:14 in the Video

See how Keith Emerson uses Korg PS-3100

Keith Emerson

Keyboardist

Emerson, Lake & Palmer

...
Verified via Backgroundmagazine

In this review of Keith Emerson's 1981 album "Honky", Background Magazine notes where the album was recorded and what musical gear Emerson used on it:

"Honky was recorded in the Bahamas and 'honky' is what the local children called Keith while he was there! The pictures inside the booklet show that Emerson's stay there was primarily a holiday, so this album was recorded in a relaxed, carefree spirit. For this record Emerson used the following instruments: Yamaha CP30, MiniMoog, Hammond C3, Korg 3100 & 3300, Steinway concert grand model D, Yamaha grand and a vocoder. [...]

See how Röyksopp uses Korg PS-3100

Röyksopp

Music Producer

Röyksopp

...
Verified via EMusician

the korg ps-3100 is mentioned to be part of their setup in this interview

See how Neon Indian uses Korg PS-3100

Neon Indian

Music Producer

Neon Indian

...
Verified via Complex

On Night School, he credits a Korg PS-3100 (which appears on the album cover), an Emulator II, and a finicky MemoryMoog for helping him capture many of the sounds that appear on the record.

See how Karl Bartos uses Korg PS-3100

Karl Bartos

Keyboardist, Composer

Electronic

...
Verified via Kraftwerkfaq

A Korg PS-3100 was used live by Karl Bartos when he was with Kraftwerk.

See how Chrome Sparks uses Korg PS-3100

Chrome Sparks

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In this instagram story by Jeremy (Chrome Sparks) you can see him using the Korg PS-3100, which he also confirms with the added text.

See how Hirokazu Tanaka uses Korg PS-3100

Hirokazu Tanaka

Composer

...
Verified via Photo

Hirokazu Tanaka is shown with a Korg PS-3100 synthesizer in a post by chiptanaka on Instagram, highlighting its impressive size and notable price of approximately 860,000 Yen.

See how La Priest uses Korg PS-3100

La Priest

Singer, Guitarist

Late of the Pier

...
Verified via YouTube

korg ps3100 is visible from around 3:38 in the video and is more visible in the picture inside the vinyl sleeve

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 PS-3100, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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