Korg Z1

$350.00 Price Tier: Budget

4.5 (10)

2 Reviews

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1 community setup

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Page last updated Jun 13, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated June 13, 2026.

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Price

5.0 (5)

$350.00 4 available Used

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Average Price: $350

Budget/Beginner

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

In the Synthesizers category, Korg Z1 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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High-end

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Description

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Dive into the sonic depths with the Korg Z1, a synthesizer that's more than its keys. A successor to the acclaimed Korg Prophecy, this instrument expands your musical horizons with its polyphonic prowess and a wide array of waveforms. Perfect for both studio recordings and live performances, the Z1 offers a blend of classic and futuristic sounds, making it a versatile companion for any musician's arsenal. Whether you're crafting dense layers or intricate solos, the Z1's robust engine and intuitive interface ensure your creativity flows uninterrupted.

Key Features:

12-voice polyphony for complex, layered soundscapes
A rich selection of 13 waveforms, allowing for a broad sonic palette
61 synth-action keys providing a responsive and expressive playing experience
Dual resonant filters and four LFOs for shaping your sound with precision
Integrated dual effects units to add depth and texture to your music
A comprehensive polyphonic arpeggiator with space for 15 user patterns, perfect for sequencing and experimentation
Versatile I/O options including Audio and MIDI, ensuring easy integration into any setup

Product specs

Brand	Korg
Model	Z1
Finish	Silver
Year	1990s
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	12 Voices

FAQs

Is the Korg Z1 suitable for live performances?: Yes, the Korg Z1 is well-suited for live performances, offering 61 full-size keys and a versatile sound engine that can handle a wide range of sounds and effects, making it a reliable choice for stage use.
What type of synthesis does the Korg Z1 use?: The Korg Z1 utilizes MOSS (Multi-Oscillator Synthesis System) technology, providing a wide variety of sound creation possibilities, including physical modeling and virtual analog synthesis.
How many voices of polyphony does the Korg Z1 offer?: The Korg Z1 offers 12 voices of polyphony, allowing for complex layered sounds and rich textures during performance or recording.
Does the Korg Z1 have MIDI connectivity?: Yes, the Korg Z1 is equipped with MIDI Input, Output, and Through, facilitating easy integration with other MIDI-compatible gear and software.
What are the standout features of the Korg Z1's sound engine?: The Korg Z1's sound engine is notable for its ability to produce a wide range of sounds using its MOSS technology, including realistic physical modeling and dynamic virtual analog sounds.

Videos

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Jexus (sounds-for-synths.com)

Korg Z1 | demo by Jexus / WC Olo Garb (part 1 of 2)

Jexus (sounds-for-synths.com)

KORG Z1 MOSS Synthesizer (1997)

RetroSound

KORG Z1 MOSS Synthesizer (1997) single sound demo

RetroSound

Korg Z1 Preset Part. 1 | No Talking |

DKS SYNTH LAB

Korg Z1 Sounds - by Starshipfive

starshipfive

Die "Eierlegende Wollmilchsau" - der KORG Z1 von 1997.

Franz Kreimer Keys

Korg Z1 - Custom Sounds Big Journey

LFOstore

Korg Z1 saxofón sound

Synth Music Chile

Korg Z1 - Jam with Dr Mix

Franz Kreimer Keys

Reviews

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PROS

Wide spectrum of sounds, from digital mayhem to lush analog
Outperforms many analog poly synths in sound range
Features like 18 voices, program multi's, and endlessly modulating patches
Includes 2 op FM with cross modulation for west coast waveshaping
Lauded as the best of its era for flexibility and sound design
Excels in soundtrack/scoring work with hands-on editing
Polyphonic arpeggiator and XY pad enhance performance and control
Favored by artists for creating unique effects and fat pad sounds

CONS

Initial learning curve due to the unconventional menu system

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Korg Z1.

Features and functionality

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The Korg Z1 is noted for its unique modeling engine, excelling in creating modelled brass and woodwind sounds, even after many years since its release.
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The Z1's XY pad and 'scene' buttons offer extensive live expression capabilities, enhancing performance dynamics.
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The Z1 is praised for its impressive arpeggiator and deep synthesis engine, making it a standout for creative sound exploration.
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Use cases and applications

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Owners caution that the Z1 is complex to program, requiring a strong understanding of synthesis to fully utilize its capabilities.
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The Z1 is praised for its ability to create a wide range of sounds, making it a valuable tool for those interested in exploring diverse sonic landscapes.
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The Z1 synthesizes a wide array of sounds, from sub bass to strings and even convincing guitar tones, ideal for diverse musical styles.
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Comparisons

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The Roland JD-Xi is suggested as a more suitable alternative for those needing a compact, multitimbral sequencer that fits well in small spaces like dorm rooms.
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Some users mention a preference for the Z1 over the Korg Prophecy, noting a difference in sound quality and experience despite both being part of the same product line.
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Value and pricing

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At $440, the Z1 is considered a bargain, especially when compared to the $350 price tag of just the Z1 add-on card for the Korg Triton.
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User experience

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Owners describe the Z1 as one of the best virtual analog (VA) experiences, with a deep, versatile sound that can handle almost any synthesis task except sampling.
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Users report the Z1 as an exceptional MIDI controller, with a great keybed and aftertouch, boosting its versatility in studio setups.
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Build quality

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It's noted that finding a Z1 in good shape is rare, highlighting the importance of checking the condition before purchasing due to its age.
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Setup and maintenance

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Owners highlight the need to monitor membrane buttons and the screen for wear, though maintenance is less intensive than a Memorymoog.
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Replacing the soldered battery is noted as a potential maintenance task after years of use, requiring technical know-how.
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