Pricing and availability
Average Price: $506
Standard/Professional
$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
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
Software and compatibility
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
5.0 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 6 Ratings
339
Keytar
I used This to write my track "The Circuits Between US" https://soundcloud.com/toxicanima1/the-circutis-between-us
Artist usage
Add artist
In this live performance video of "Armistice" in 2009, Paul is seen at 1:32 using his RK-100 to trigger synth samples.
Tweet from Robin Beanland in which he posted a photo of himself playing a black Korg RK 100.
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.
A picture from Scott Warren's Facebook artist page shows him using the Korg RK 100 Midi Keyboard Controller (White).
Diagram of John Beck's keyboard rig printed in the November 1986 issue of International Musician.
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.
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.
More Korg Synthesizers
Accessories & Related Items
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Synthesizers
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
odysseyeurobeatGear IQ 1709
-