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Description

Step into a world where mobility meets musical innovation with the Korg RK-100 Keytar. This modern twist on the classic keytar offers musicians the unique opportunity to break free from the confines of traditional keyboards. Sporting a sleek and ergonomic design, the RK-100 allows you to command the stage with both style and substance. It features a 37-note velocity-sensitive keyboard, delivering a remarkable range of expressive possibilities.

Under the hood, the RK-100 is equipped with the same powerful engine found in Korg's acclaimed microKORG XL. With 200 built-in programs, musicians can explore a vast array of sounds from vintage synths to contemporary tones. Its intuitive interface makes it easy to navigate through patches and tweak parameters using the onboard ribbon controllers and arpeggiator.

The RK-100 offers wireless freedom with battery operation, and MIDI connectivity ensures seamless integration into any setup. Whether you're an experienced pro or an aspiring performer, this keytar provides the tools to craft your unique sound on stage or in the studio.

Key Features:

  • 37-note velocity-sensitive keyboard
  • Powerful sound engine derived from the microKORG XL
  • 200 built-in programs for diverse tonal exploration
  • Intuitive ribbon controllers and arpeggiator
  • Battery operation for ultimate mobility
  • MIDI connectivity for versatile use

Product specs

Brand Korg
Model RK-100 37-Key Keytar Synthesizer
Finish Black, Red
Year 1984
Categories Digital Synthesizers, Keytar MIDI Controllers
Analog / Digital Digital
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
MIDI I/O MIDI Output
Number of Keys 37 Keys
Polyphony 8 Voices

FAQs

What type of sound engine does the Korg RK-100 Keytar use?

The Korg RK-100 Keytar features a digital sound engine, offering a variety of synthesized sounds suitable for live performances and studio use.

Is the Korg RK-100 Keytar polyphonic?

Yes, the Korg RK-100 Keytar is polyphonic, supporting up to 8 voices, which allows for playing chords and complex musical passages.

How many keys does the Korg RK-100 Keytar have, and what is their size?

The Korg RK-100 Keytar has 37 full-size keys, providing a comfortable playing experience similar to traditional keyboards.

Can the Korg RK-100 Keytar be used as a MIDI controller?

Yes, the Korg RK-100 Keytar includes a MIDI output, enabling it to function as a MIDI controller for other synthesizers or computer-based music production.

What finishes are available for the Korg RK-100 Keytar?

The Korg RK-100 Keytar is available in two finishes: black and red, both highlighting its unique and striking design.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Korg RK-100 Keytar.

Features and functionality

  • Korg RK-100S2's sound presets are primarily suited for techno/dance genres, limiting versatility for other styles like prog, funk, rock, or modern pop.

    Source
  • The modulation and pitch bend being controlled by the same touch ribbon is a common point of dissatisfaction among users.

    Source
  • The long ribbon controller is seen as obstructive by some users, who prefer a sustain button or smaller controls for filters.

    Source
  • The RK-100S2 struggles to produce convincing overdriven or distorted lead sounds, as its synth engine is based on the dated MicroKorg XL+.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners note the RK-100S2 is lighter and more ergonomic than the Roland Ax-Edge, making it preferable for those used to lighter instruments like saxophones.

    Source
  • The selector lever is considered poorly designed and could be more durable if replaced with buttons, enhancing the unit's sleekness.

    Source
  • Button quality on the RK-100S2 is superior to Roland's and MicroKORG/Triton series, with better durability noted by users.

    Source
  • The Roland AX-Edge excels in creating realistic guitar tones and is praised for its playability, surpassing the RK-100S2 in versatility and sound options.

    Source

User experience

  • Some owners find the RK-100S2's keys feel cheap and lackluster, contrasting with other synths like the Microkorg XL.

    Source
  • Owners find the RK-100S2's mini keys too small for comfortable chord playing, limiting its use for complex performance pieces.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The inability to import Microkorg XL patches is a significant limitation, as users must rely on the default patches or spend time with the editor.

    Source
  • The RK-100S2 lacks compatibility with sound packs and presets from the Microkorg XL, requiring manual recreation of patches.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The RK-100S2 is seen as comfortable and easy to handle during play, especially for those prioritizing size and comfort in a keytar.

    Source

Build quality

  • The wood body of the RK-100S2 provides a more authentic instrument feel compared to the plastic construction of other keytars like those from Roland.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Users highlight the absence of a "Factory Reset" guide in the manual, which is typically included in other keyboard manuals.

    Source
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5.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 6 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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1 star
ben_liss

Ben Liss

He played one

T

Keytar

I used This to write my track "The Circuits Between US" https://soundcloud.com/toxicanima1/the-circutis-between-us

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Rick Wakeman uses Korg RK-100 Keytar

Rick Wakeman

Keyboardist

Ozzy Osbourne

...
Verified via reverb.com

One from 1984 was listed for sale on Reverb.com in June 2020.

See how Keith Emerson uses Korg RK-100 Keytar

Keith Emerson

Keyboardist

Emerson, Lake & Palmer

...
Verified via Soundonsound

This Sound On Sound article states Emerson owned a Korg RK-100.

See how Paul Meany uses Korg RK-100 Keytar

Paul Meany

Singer, Keyboardist

MUTEMATH

...
Verified via YouTube

In this live performance video of "Armistice" in 2009, Paul is seen at 1:32 using his RK-100 to trigger synth samples.

See how Ke$ha uses Korg RK-100 Keytar

Ke$ha

Singer, Rapper

Hollywood Vampires

...
Verified via Photo

in this photo you can see her playing a Korg RK-100 Keytar

See how Robin Beanland uses Korg RK-100 Keytar

Robin Beanland

Composer

...
Verified via Twitter

Tweet from Robin Beanland in which he posted a photo of himself playing a black Korg RK 100.

See how Gregg Giuffria uses Korg RK-100 Keytar

Gregg Giuffria

Keyboardist

House of Lords

...
Verified via YouTube

Gregg Giuffria was seen using a Korg RK-100 1984 (Black) during a live performance with Giuffria in Japan in 1985. The Korg RK-100 can be observed at the 3 minutes and 37 seconds mark in the video titled "Giuffria - Turn Me On (LIVE 85 JAPON)" by Carlos Rock Melodic on YouTube.

See how Jörn-Uwe Fahrenkrog-Petersen uses Korg RK-100 Keytar

Jörn-Uwe Fahrenkrog-Petersen

Keyboardist, Composer

Nena

...
Verified via YouTube

As seen in Anders/Fahrenkrog's video for "I Miss You".

See how Scott Warren uses Korg RK-100 Keytar

Scott Warren

Keyboardist

Dio

...
Verified via Photo

A picture from Scott Warren's Facebook artist page shows him using the Korg RK 100 Midi Keyboard Controller (White).

J

John Beck

Keyboardist

The Alan Parsons Project

...
Verified via Photo

Diagram of John Beck's keyboard rig printed in the November 1986 issue of International Musician.

See how Andrew Johns uses Korg RK-100 Keytar

Andrew Johns

Singer, Keyboardist

Boulevard

...
Verified via YouTube

At the 2 minute and 33 second mark in the music video for "Never Give Up" by Boulevard, Andrew Johns is seen using a Korg RK-100 1984 (Black). This video, restored by Crosscut Films, is available on YouTube and showcases one of the singles from their debut album released in 1988.

See how Jimmy Waldo uses Korg RK-100 Keytar

Jimmy Waldo

Keyboardist

Quiet Riot

...
Verified via YouTube

As seen 3:04 seconds in Alcatrazz's live performance of "God Blessed Video".

See how André Andersen uses Korg RK-100 Keytar

André Andersen

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Royal Hunt

...
Verified via YouTube

During the live performance of "Royal Hunt - Keyboard Solo / Freeway Jam (Live in Japan 1997)," André Andersen is seen using the Korg RK-100 1984 (Black), as documented by Blaise Collins on YouTube.

Album Usage

The Korg RK-100 Keytar 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 RK-100 Keytar, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1
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Korg SQ-10 Audio Sequencers
1
Yamaha GX-1
Yamaha GX-1 Synthesizers
1
Yamaha TX816
Yamaha TX816 Modular Synthesizers
1

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