Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $131
Budget/Beginner
$150
$601+
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Price History
Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Korg Volca Beats". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Introducing the Korg Volca Beats Analogue Rhythm Machine, a game-changer in the world of EDM production tools. This true-analog device generates fat, powerful sounds that only an analog synthesizer can deliver. It's not just about the sound, though - this rhythm machine also comes with sequencing/recording capabilities to help you intuitively create performances that truly stand out.
The Volca Beats is designed for seamless integration with your existing setup. Use it in tandem with other Volca devices via the vintage-style sync in/out, or with your preferred DAW software or MIDI keyboard via MIDI In. Convenience is at the core of its design - it's powered by batteries and has built-in speakers, meaning you can bring your music to life anytime, anywhere.
This rhythm machine is a nod to the age of analog synthesizers, delivering thick, resonant sounds that can hold their own against guitar and acoustic drums. But it's not just about recapturing the past - the Volca Beats also features the easy-to-use step sequencer of the electribe, making it a breeze to turn your musical ideas into high-quality beats.
Key Features:
- True-analog device for powerful, rich sounds
- Built-in sequencing/recording capabilities
- Sync in/out for use with other Volca devices
- MIDI In for compatibility with DAW software or MIDI keyboard
- Battery operation and built-in speakers for convenience and portability
- Easy-to-use step sequencer, inspired by the electribe
- High-quality sound generation for standout beats.
Owner's manual
Korg Volca Beats User ManualProduct specs
| Pads | 16 x keypad shaped touch sensors |
| Sounds | 10 drum parts |
| Patterns | 8 user patterns |
| Sequencer | 16-step |
| Analog Inputs | 1 x Sync input |
| Analog Outputs | 1 x Sync output |
| Headphones | 1 x 1/8" |
| MIDI I/O | In |
| Power Source | AC adapter (sold separately), 6 x AA |
| Height | 1.78" |
| Width | 7.61" |
| Depth | 4.54" |
| Weight | .8 lbs. |
FAQs
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Does the Korg Volca Beats have built-in speakers?
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Yes, the Korg Volca Beats includes a built-in speaker, allowing you to play and perform without additional amplification.
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How many drum sounds does the Korg Volca Beats offer?
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The Korg Volca Beats features 10 distinct drum sounds, providing a variety of rhythmic options for your music production.
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Can the Korg Volca Beats be powered by batteries?
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Yes, the Korg Volca Beats can be powered by 6 AA batteries, making it highly portable for on-the-go music creation.
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Is the Korg Volca Beats compatible with MIDI devices?
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The Korg Volca Beats has a MIDI input, allowing it to be integrated with other MIDI-compatible devices for expanded musical possibilities.
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What type of sequencer does the Korg Volca Beats use?
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The Korg Volca Beats is equipped with a 16-step sequencer, enabling detailed pattern creation and live performance flexibility.
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Does the Korg Volca Beats come with an AC adapter?
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No, the Korg Volca Beats does not include an AC adapter; it is sold separately. However, it can also operate on battery power.
Videos
KORG INC.
Introducing KORG volca beats
Reviews
PROS
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Analog tones (kick, snare, toms, hats) offer fantastic sound
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Grain knob provides unique sonic control
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MIDI note programming enhances performance capabilities
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Compact and highly portable for on-the-go use
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Sync in/out feature allows chaining with other units
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Versatile for various music genres (techno, hip-hop, ambient)
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Stutter effect adds depth to rhythms
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Can be modded for added functionality (e.g., MIDI out)
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Good integration with DAWs for studio work
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Affordable option for analog and PCM drum sounds
CONS
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Snare sound described as weak or lacking punch by some users
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Output limited to mono, no panning options
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Firmware update process considered cumbersome
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Limited sequencer steps restrict pattern complexity
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Build quality perceived as fragile by some
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Lacks USB connection for direct computer interface
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Volume balancing issues between analog and PCM sounds
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No built-in MIDI out; requires modification
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Some users find integration with existing setups challenging
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Only one audio output (3.5mm jack), limiting connectivity options
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Korg Volca Beats.
Mods and upgrades
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Adding a missing capacitor significantly improves the snare sound, addressing a common criticism among owners.
Source
Features and functionality
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The built-in speaker allows for immediate playability, making it convenient for quick jams with other instruments like guitars.
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The depth knob at high settings with the time knob at around 7 or 8 o'clock amplifies tonal adjustments, allowing for detailed sound shaping.
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The Volca Beats outputs clicky, trap-primed drum sounds reminiscent of an 808, with a part-by-part sequencing layout typical of drum machines.
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Users highlight the Volca Drum's feature-rich sequencer, including the ability to set probabilities for each voice, facilitating generative music creation.
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Comparisons
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Owners often compare the Volca Beats to the Korg Electribe ER-1 for its more accessible control surface and expanded storage capabilities.
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Use cases and applications
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The Volca Beats is often used as a "complicated metronome," providing a rhythmic backbone with added options.
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The Volca Beats pairs effectively with a mini Kaoss Pad, creating a versatile setup for exploring complex soundscapes.
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The Volca Drum is praised for its ability to model analog sounds akin to expensive Eurorack systems, making it a cost-effective option for designing custom sounds.
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Value and pricing
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Priced around $100, the Volca Beats is appreciated for its affordability and portability, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious musicians.
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User experience
Software and compatibility
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The Volca Drum's parameters can be live-edited via MIDI CC, with free editor software available, such as Synthmata, to manage the complexity.
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Critic Reviews
4.0 out of 5
Based on 37 Reviews and 220 Ratings
167
Tiny box, big sound at a great price
This is an unbelievably fantastic sound for such a tiny box and such a tiny price. I can't imagine it'll be long before I buy the other two.
not easy task to make an analog drum machine
Good for Korg. Maybe I would ask for a special out for the kick and for the rest. That's all.
291
Great Tiny Drum Machine
Bought it recently and really happy with its 4 analog sounds and pocket size. Really love it!
2532
Did you do the mods yourself? How do you like them?
163
Yes, the mult-out isn't really hard to do, only drilled holes for connectors, and kick welding point. But for the snare mod, it's more difficult 'cause SMT circuit inside. If you interested, check on gearslutz, there is a lot of informations. http://www52.zippyshare.com/v/2C7TF1sM/file.html
I love the Kick and Toms sounds, but the reminder sounds cheap. Therefore I use it a lot more in addition.
2532
Thanks for the info and picture! Looks pretty straightforward, and sounds like a very worthwhile mod.
Artist usage
Add artist
At the 5 minute mark exactly you can see him start what I can only assume is the Volca Drum Machine.
The Volca Beats Analogue Rhythm Machine can be seen at the bottom desk right next to the Volca Bass
Szary, you were using Korg Volca Beats amongst other things live last tour... How has your set-up changed now?
Szary: "Now I'm opposite to Gernot and receive MIDI from him as well as some side signals from both Sascha and Gernot, which go into a little mixer. On my table I have two delays: a Strymon Timeline, which is a really great hybrid reverb/ delay; there's also a Tech 21 D.L.A. guitar delay that I've used since the first Moderat tour in 2009. It's new for me but I've got an MPC1000 with JJ O.S. That's mainly for additional samples and sounds, which I play on different tracks. There's also an Akai Rhythm Wolf drum machine, which is a fairly limited drum machine... [laughs] but the snare drum's nice!"
In this screen capture from the Foals' video on Jimmy https://youtu.be/aihFHrH57A0?t=196 , you can see him messing around with some pedals and the Korg Volca Beats.
Album Usage
The Korg Volca Beats has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Korg Volca Beats, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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