Korg Wavestation

$223.38 Price Tier: Budget

4.5 (15)

3 Critic Reviews

1 Review

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

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Korg Collection WAVESTATION V2 Software Synthesizer

4.5 (41)

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3 community setups

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Page last updated Jun 12, 2026

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5.0 (3)

$223.38 7 available Used

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Average Price: $223

Budget/Beginner

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

In the Synthesizers category, Korg Wavestation is priced in the Budget/Beginner range. This is great gear to get started with or for creators on a budget.

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Description

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Unleash your creativity with the Korg Wavestation, a synthesizer that revolutionized sound design with its groundbreaking vector synthesis system. Originally launched in 1990, this iconic instrument paved the way for innovative soundscapes by seamlessly blending multiple waveforms. The use of a joystick to dynamically morph between four oscillators and its unique wave sequencing function allows musicians to craft rhythmic and melodic patterns that remain unparalleled in the world of synthesis.

The modern Korg Collection Wavestation V2 pays homage to its legendary predecessor by faithfully recreating its sound architecture in a refined software package. Benefit from over 1,500 programs and more than 700 waveforms, including the complete set from the original expansion ROM cards. Whether you're producing contemporary music or creating atmospheric scores for film and television, the Wavestation offers a rich canvas for sonic exploration.

Enhanced for today's production standards, the Wavestation V2 features a high-resolution interface compatible with Retina and 4K displays, ensuring a crystal-clear view of your sound creation palette. Its intuitive program browser, equipped with dual tagging options, simplifies the search for the perfect sound, while the powerful random sequence engine injects a touch of spontaneity into your music-making process.

Key Features:

Complete reproduction of the advanced vector synthesis system
High-resolution interface optimized for Retina and 4K
Over 1,500 programs and 700+ waveforms from all Wavestation models
New program browser with instrument and sound character filters
Powerful random sequence engine for spontaneous sound creation

System Requirements:

Mac:

Mac OS X 10.14 Mojave or higher
Intel Core i5 or better (Apple Silicon Native supported)
8 GB RAM (16 GB recommended)
8 GB free disk space (SSD recommended)
AU, VST, VST3, AAX (64-bit plug-ins only)
Internet connection required

PC:

Windows 10 64bit or higher
Intel Core i5 or better
8 GB RAM (16 GB recommended)
8 GB free disk space (SSD recommended)
VST, VST3, AAX (64-bit plug-ins only)
Internet connection required

Product specs

Brand	Korg
Model	Wavestation WS1
Finish	Black
Year	2010s
Made In	Japan
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	61 Keys
Polyphony	32 Voices

FAQs

What type of synthesis does the Korg Wavestation use?: The Korg Wavestation utilizes vector synthesis, enabling dynamic sound creation by blending multiple waveforms for evolving textures and complex sounds.
How many voices of polyphony does the Korg Wavestation offer?: The Korg Wavestation provides 32 voices of polyphony, allowing for rich, layered soundscapes and complex performances without voice-stealing.
Is the Korg Wavestation suitable for live performances?: Yes, the Korg Wavestation is well-suited for live performances, featuring a 61-key synth-action keyboard and robust MIDI capabilities for seamless integration into live setups.
Can the Korg Wavestation be used with external MIDI devices?: The Korg Wavestation includes MIDI Input, Output, and Through ports, allowing it to connect with and control external MIDI devices efficiently.
What are the key features of the Korg Wavestation's sound engine?: The Korg Wavestation's sound engine is known for its vector synthesis and wave sequencing, enabling unique, evolving soundscapes and a wide range of sonic possibilities.

Videos

Add video

AnalogAudio1

KORG WAVESTATION Digital Synthesizer 1990 | HQ DEMO

AnalogAudio1

KORG Wavestation Vector Synthesizer (1990) sound demo

RetroSound

KORG WAVESTATION - Better than the Wavestate?

Vulture Culture

Korg Wavestation Part. 1 | No Talking |

DKS SYNTH LAB

The Korg Wavestation - Orbital's Halcyon+On+On Synth

Bleeps and Boops

Reviews

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PROS

Incites creativity and experimentation with external and internal effects
Exceptional for era sound layering, offering unique studio additions
Delivers quantum leap in sound production capabilities
Pads and textures provide delightful sound experiences
Enables complex wave combinations for versatile sound crafting

CONS

Editing can be difficult and confusing, deterring customization
Lacks the ability to use personal samples directly

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

0 0

The Wavestation's patches are organized across virtual memory cards without clear sorting, complicating patch creation and performance building.
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User experience

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Some users find the vector synthesis feature intriguing as it allows crossfading between four sound sources, but it can be unintuitive for beginners.
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0 0

Some users report issues with stuck notes when stopping the transport in the VST, impacting workflow.
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Users find programming the Wavestation from the front panel challenging, similar to the M1, but appreciate its depth and versatility once mastered.
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Software and compatibility

0 0

The VST is noted for its accurate emulation of the hardware's complexity, including its less intuitive aspects, which can frustrate those seeking ease of use.
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Comparisons

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The iWavestation app is highlighted as having a more intuitive UI compared to the Wavestation VST, despite offering similar features.
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0 0

The Wavestation is described as more flexible and complex compared to the M1, which is limited but popular for its classic presets like the retro techno piano.
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Use cases and applications

0 0

Ideal for sound designers due to its deep modulation capabilities, but may overwhelm composers looking for quick results with presets.
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0 0

The Wavestation excels in creating evolving, ambient soundscapes suited for film scoring and industrial music, whereas the M1 is more tailored towards pop hits.
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Mods and upgrades

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Upgrading the OG Wavestation to EX is recommended due to compatibility issues with patches using EX waveforms, avoiding frequent system lockups.
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Setup and maintenance

0 0

It's advised to replace the Wavestation's battery to prevent leaks and ensure stability, particularly in older units.
Source

Critic Reviews

King Korg and the Wave Monster! (SOS Aug 90)

muzines.co.uk

The Korg Wavestation impresses with its unique blend of Advanced Vector Synthesis and Wave Sequencing, offering musicians an innovative way to sculpt dynamic and evolving sounds. While its lack of drum parts and sequencer may deter some, its ability to produce rich, multilayered textures and its powerful digital effects section are standout features. With its excellent MIDI implementation and user-friendly interface, it serves as a strong contender for a master keyboard in many setups. Despite some minor sample noise and less convincing sax emulations, its diverse waveforms and high-quality effects make it a compelling choice for synth enthusiasts. At a price that seems surprisingly affordable for its capabilities, the Wavestation is a thrilling addition to Korg's lineup, promising hours of creative exploration.

positive

Full Review

Korg Wavestation Tips & Techniques

soundonsound.com

The Korg Wavestation is a cult classic, lauded for its unique wave sequencing capabilities that offer evolving soundscapes unlike any other synth. However, its lack of built-in piano and drum sounds initially hindered its commercial success. While it can produce high-quality sounds, its complex architecture can be frustrating to navigate. Users often stick to the Performance mode for its complex sound possibilities, as Multisets prove less practical. The need for reinitialization to fix data corruption issues is a recurring hassle. Yet, its ability to generate intricate, evolving sounds keeps it relevant and prized among dedicated users.

neutral

Full Review

Vintage Rewind: Korg Wavestation

musictech.com

The Korg Wavestation remains a groundbreaking synth with its introduction of wave sequencing and vector synthesis, offering lush, evolving soundscapes that were ahead of its time. While its programming interface may feel cumbersome, akin to "wallpapering a hallway through a letterbox," and its lack of 'organic' instrument waveforms might deter some, the Wavestation's unique capabilities and enduring influence make it a cherished piece of vintage gear. Its legacy lives on in modern software versions and new iterations like the Wavestate, keeping its innovative spirit alive for a new generation of musicians.

positive

Full Review

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 15 Ratings

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dukimusic

497

over 4 years ago

nice old waves and combinations

I love that to do very complex wave combinations in old korg manier - nice pads and many more - rhythm textures with samples...miss own samples...there should exist an easier way do use own samples....now modwave does this - very easy....

Roles:

Music Producer

Genres:

Electronic Electronica Electro