Korg R3 Synthesizer / Vocoder Keyboard
- Write a Review
- Product #701819
-
- MSRP:
- $799.00
-
- Your Savings:
- - $200.00
-
Free Shipping on Orders over $25
-
- Your Price:
- $59900
- Free Shipping
- Top Rated
- Price Match
- Satisfaction Guarantee
-
res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
-
res13051901751279094606302Arturia Analog Experience - The Factory Hybrid Synthesizer L... $228.65 - $269.00
res13051901751279094606302
-
res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
-
res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
- res13051901751279094606302
Powerhouse analog sounds in a pint-sized digital synth.
The Korg R3 is powered by the MMT (Multiple Modeling Technology) analog synthesis-modeling sound engine and delivers 2-timbre/8-voice performance in an easy-to-use 37-key 'board. 128 programs deliver crucial synth sounds from leads and pads to strings and percussion with 2 oscillators, 3 envelope generators, 2 filters, an amp section, effects, and a noise generator available for each voice. In addition to the vocoder which works with the onboard mic input, it has a modulation sequencer for precision 16-step control of modulation movement.
MMT synthesis
The versatile range of built-in oscillator algorithms covers everything from familiar analog synthesizer waveforms, to unique digital waveforms and even live audio input. For each voice, the R3 provides two oscillators. Oscillator 1 (OSC1) gives you a choice of seven waveforms including sawtooth, pulse, formant, noise, and DWGS, as well as allowing you to select an external audio source connected to the AUDIO INPUT 1 and 2 jacks. To enhance the basic analog synthesizer waveforms such as the sawtooth, pulse and triangle waves, you can apply cross modulation, pulse-width modulation, unison voice-thickening, or even VPM (Variable Phase Modulation).
Oscillator 2 (OSC2) gives you a choice of four waveforms such as sawtooth and sine, and can also be used as a modulation oscillator to apply sync modulation, ring modulation or a combination of the two for distinctively analog synthesizer sounds. The noise generator (NOISE) produces white noise, and provides a useful way to create breath noise for wind instrument sounds, or to produce evocative sound effects. The sawtooth wave and pulse wave use the same basic low-aliasing design as the AL-1 Analog Synthesizer found in Korg's flagship OASYS synthesizer.
Two filters with selectable routing
The R3 features a dual filter structure that can be configured in series, parallel or an individual structure allowing each oscillator to have its own dedicated filter. Filter 1 is a multi-mode resonant design that lets you continuously vary between various low-pass, high-pass and band reject characteristics. Filter 2 has a switchable, multi-mode resonant design that also includes comb filtering, which can be made to feed back in order to boost multiple series of overtones, giving you amazing potential for generating unique tonal changes.
Amp section with a Drive/Waveshaping circuit
The Drive circuit lets you create the subtle yet distinctive distortion typical of an analog synthesizer, or generate new overtones by deeply overdriving the sound. The Waveshaping circuit gives you twelve types of transformation including hard clipping, and can be used as a decimator to produce typically digital roughness by converting the sampling frequency. It can even be used as a sub-oscillator, opening up new sound-making possibilities. The Drive/Waveshaping circuit can be placed either before the amp section or immediately before Filter 1 to give you different nuances of sound. With additional parameters - such as the Punch Level setting that emphasizes the attack, giving greater impact to percussive sounds - you have the tools to enjoy radical creativity that's not restricted by concepts of the past.
Multiple EGs and LFOs
Each voice provides three ADSR envelope generators (EG) for classic analog synthesis control over pitch, filter and amp characteristics. The classic and intuitive four-stage ADSR design has been enhanced with five different attack and release curves, allowing the EG contours to be crafted with new levels of precision and articulation.
Two LFOs with six waveform choices can be used to apply cyclic modulation to synth parameters. High-speed digital processing ensures that vibrato, wah, and tremolo will produce extremely smooth tonal changes, and each waveform can be extensively modified via the Shape control, greatly expanding the versatility of the LFO section for creating highly complex types of modulation.
Virtual Patches for sophisticated sound-creation
The R3 provides six Virtual Patches that simulate the patch cord functions of the PS series and MS series - classic Korg synthesizers of the past. There are twelve modulation source including EG, LFO, velocity, and keyboard tracking (the position at which you play the keyboard) that can be used to apply modulation to fifteen different destination parameters such as pitch, oscillator 1 control, or filter 1 type.
Dramatic tonal changes from the Modulation Sequencer
The Modulation Sequencer can apply a time-varying change to a specific parameter, similar to CV control on an analog synthesizer. You specify the value of each of sixteen steps, and then choose how to play back these steps (forward, backward, looping etc.) to vary the sound in unique ways. There's also a Motion Rec function that lets you capture and replay realtime knob movements.
Formant Motion produces personalized Vocoder sounds
The R3's powerful vocoder function lets you use your voice to add a distinctive tonal character to the sound of the oscillator, creating "speaking" tones. The vocoder consists of sixteen filter bands, and can replicate the classic vocoder sounds of the past, as well as letting you dramatically transform the timbral character by adjusting the level and pan of each frequency band to create absolutely original vocoder sounds. The R3 comes with an XLR-connector gooseneck microphone, so you can start enjoying this superb vocoder functionality right away.
Features
Keyboard
- 37 notes (full size keys, velocity sensitive):
- Programs: 2 Timbres maximum (when using Layer, Split, or Multi)
- 8 voice polyphony (maximum)
- 128 programs (16 banks x 8 programs)
- 16 formant motion data sets (7.5 second x 16): *Specifications and features are subject to change without notice.
Inputs
- AUDIO INPUT 1 (with MIC/LINE switch): Rear Panel 1/4" phone jack (unbalanced)
- Input Impedance: 600 Ohm
- Maximum Input Level: -10 dBu (LINE), -33 dBu (MIC)
- AUDIO INPUT 1 (MIC): Front Panel XLR jack (balanced)
- Input Impedance: 600 Ohm
- Maximum Input Level: -33 dBu
- AUDIO INPUT 2: 1/4" phone jack (unbalanced)
- Input Impedance: 600 Ohm
- Maximum Input Level: -10 dBu
Outputs
- L/MONO, R 1/4" phone jacks (unbalanced): Output Impedance: 1.1 k Ohm (MONO: 550 Ohm)
- Maximum Output Level: +7.5 dBu or more
- Load Impedance: 10 k Ohm or more
- PHONES 1/4" phone stereo jack: Output Impedance: 10 Ohm
- Maximum Output Level: 35 mW
- Load Impedance: 33 Ohm
- Foot Switch: ASSIGNABLE [SW], ASSIGNABLE [PEDAL]
- MIDI: IN, OUT, THRU
- USB: Type B
Display
- Main Display: 8-character x 2 line LCD
- Four Sub Displays: 8-character x 1 line LCD
- Power Supply: DC 12 V, 6.5 W
- Dimensions: 25.00" (W) x 10.63" (D) x 2.99" (H)
- Weight: 6.17 lbs.
- Included Items:
- Gooseneck microphone
- AC adapter (DC 12 V)
- CD-ROM
Structure
- Synth: 2 oscillators + noise generator
- Oscillator 1: Wave: 8 types (Sawtooth, Pulse, Triangle, Sine, Formant, Noise, DWGS, Audio In), Modulation: Waveform, Cross, Unison, VPM
- Oscillator 2: 4 types (Sawtooth, Square, Triangle, Sine), Modulation: Ring, Sync, Ring+Sync
- Waveshape: 12 types: Drive, Decimator, HardClip, OctSaw, MultiTri, MultiSin, SubOSCSaw, SubOSCSqu, SubOSCTri, SubOSCSin, Pickup, LevelBoost
- Multimode Resonant Filters: Filter 1: -24 dB/oct LPF ~ -12 dB/oct LPF ~ -12 dB/oct BPF ~ -12 dB/oct HPF ~ Thru, Filter 2: LPF, HPF, BPF, COMB
- EG x 3, LFO x 2
- Vocoder: 16 channel vocoder, adjustable level and pan for each channel, Formant Shift function, Formant Motion function, Formant Hold function
- Effects: Timbre: 2 band EQ, Insert effect (per timbre), Program: Master effect
- Arpeggiator: Six types: UP, DOWN, ALT1/2, Random, Trigger, Individual step on/off function
Extremely smooth analog synthesis waveforms from a compact digital keyboard. Order your R3 now!
-
Interview with Richard Barbieri who plays a Roland...
Review Snapshot®
by PowerReviews(based on 22 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
Most Liked Positive Review
Excellent, powerful synth for the price
I've had this synth for about three years now, and I have not grown tired of it or regretted purchasing it in any way. I have found practical uses for this synth in all ...Read complete review
I've had this synth for about three years now, and I have not grown tired of it or regretted purchasing it in any way. I have found practical uses for this synth in all the genres listed above. There is a slight learning curve due to the modulation sequencing and virtual patches, but it's not much more difficult to program than a microKORG, GAIA, Micron, or similar synth.
My only real gripes with this keyboard are the keys themselves (slightly stiff feeling and at a strange angle compared to the top of the board), an omission of the ability to rename the patch banks (more LCD screens would have been nice), and the fact that there is not a dedicated case/gig bag for it.
That having been said, the R3 has a decent enough arpeggiator, a great synth engine and effects section, additional sound-shaping via the virtual patch bay, smooth and responsive knobs, and the ability to process external audio for some weird and awesome effects.
Neon Indian to Flux Pavillion to Kanye to Radiohead to Devil Wears Prada, to Tiesto, this thing can really do it all. Leads, basses, and analog pads/strings are this powerful little device's specialty.
Just wish the housing had more metal. A step sequencer and more lcd screens couldn't be too much to ask for at this price, in my opinion.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Korg R3 cool concept
Korg R3 cool concept/sound but... the rotary knobs on the unit I received out of the box would not go to value 127, only 000-125 or 126 sometimes.I found, on a...Read complete review
Korg R3 cool concept/sound but... the rotary knobs on the unit I received out of the box would not go to value 127, only 000-125 or 126 sometimes.I found, on a Korg forum, that other R3s have this type of problem as well, I do not know the numbers though. What a disapointment, sending it back.
Reviews
Reviewed by 22 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-10
Previous | Next »
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Portable
Cons
- Plastic Construction
- Poor Action
- Set Names For Patch Banks
Best Uses
- Alternative
- Dnb
- Dubstep
- Hip hop
- House
- Indie
- Metal
- Pop
- Progressive
- Rock
- Trance
Comments about Korg R3 Synthesizer / Vocoder Keyboard:
I've had this synth for about three years now, and I have not grown tired of it or regretted purchasing it in any way. I have found practical uses for this synth in all the genres listed above. There is a slight learning curve due to the modulation sequencing and virtual patches, but it's not much more difficult to program than a microKORG, GAIA, Micron, or similar synth.
My only real gripes with this keyboard are the keys themselves (slightly stiff feeling and at a strange angle compared to the top of the board), an omission of the ability to rename the patch banks (more LCD screens would have been nice), and the fact that there is not a dedicated case/gig bag for it.
That having been said, the R3 has a decent enough arpeggiator, a great synth engine and effects section, additional sound-shaping via the virtual patch bay, smooth and responsive knobs, and the ability to process external audio for some weird and awesome effects.
Neon Indian to Flux Pavillion to Kanye to Radiohead to Devil Wears Prada, to Tiesto, this thing can really do it all. Leads, basses, and analog pads/strings are this powerful little device's specialty.
Just wish the housing had more metal. A step sequencer and more lcd screens couldn't be too much to ask for at this price, in my opinion.
Comments about Korg R3 Synthesizer / Vocoder Keyboard:
The Korg R3 I got for my birthday two years ago has been somewhat well. Unfortunately, the 3.5 rating came from the lack of different sounds and mixes. Value for the keyboard COULD get a 4.0 if kept tidy and nice, but with how little Korg offers on the R3, its not worth the dollar. The features rating wouldve been up to a 4.0 if there were more than 37 keys, dont you agree? Hands need room to play and not much space to be creature. It is lightweight, so its easy to carry. The R3 is more suited for a beginner when it comes dowm to it. Not saying you shouldnt get it, but that you should choose wisely.
Comments about Korg R3 Synthesizer / Vocoder Keyboard:
This synth is the cats pajamas man! The sounds you can get with this thing are unlimited! The vocoder is really good and the mic that comes with it is also preety good.
Comments about Korg R3 Synthesizer / Vocoder Keyboard:
Korg R3 cool concept/sound but... the rotary knobs on the unit I received out of the box would not go to value 127, only 000-125 or 126 sometimes.I found, on a Korg forum, that other R3s have this type of problem as well, I do not know the numbers though. What a disapointment, sending it back.
Comments about Korg R3 Synthesizer / Vocoder Keyboard:
So i am a guitar player and i decided, maybe i should try a synth or keyboard. so i tried this one out and i was amazed by all the sounds you get out of this mugg. so i thought it was cool. then i just kinda got bored with it until one day, i put some studio headphones on instead of running it through an amp. and now i think its even more amazing... in the end, it really cool. if you don't play keybaords and you want a synth... This is it. i really like the arrpegiator, makes you sound like your amazing at synth. buy it.
Comments about Korg R3 Synthesizer / Vocoder Keyboard:
I just got mine and I am very happy with its performance. Although I am a guitarist/vocalist in a country rock band, SmokinGuns out in k-falls oregon. I have always wanted one of these babies. I have been studying the keys for about 6mo. and i'm currently building a studio. This korg will be a great addition to our compositions. Also happy with musician's friend service. Thanks SmokinGuns Band
Comments about Korg R3 Synthesizer / Vocoder Keyboard:
Have owned it for about 9 mos now and I am still amazed by the sounds I can produce with it. I did comparison shopping for about a mo. and played many comparable synths the R3 won out every time. USB computer hook up to save and load programs is awesome. The 4 knobs for tweeking sound and pitch/mod wheels make it fun to jam on-- I turn on a drum track with a sic house beat and all I need is dancers to turn the studio into a club. Oh, and the vocoder is cool, you can also run a line in through the programs, pretty sweet to tweek drum tracks or bass lines. Since I'm a newb to synths I cant say much about the playability and action of the keys other than I had no problems whatsoever using it, velocity data is responsive and adjustable. My only reason for awarding it 4.5 out of 5 stars for function is that the tempo knob is super sensitive and its easy to blow past your desired bpm. Also, the selectable bpms are kind of weird. For instance, from 20bpm to about 160 bpm you can adjust in 1 bpm increments, 160-216 bpm by 2 bpm increments, and 216-300 bpm by 5 bpm increments. This is not that big of a deal, but I have to keep it in mind when composing songs that I plan to add a programmed drum track to. In addition, I wish it was adjustable to .1 bpm accuracy. Perhaps Korg could fix this with a software download?I was recently given an old 76 key yamaha CVP-3 and am driving the R3's sound engine via MIDI with it. It is awesome, the 37 key limit on the R3 leaves me usually playing in the same key of D, but using the CVP-3 to drive it I can play in any key I want. What is more, I can still tweek all the knobs and wheels on the R3, or drop/raise the R3's octaves and play on it's keys expanding my 76 key further.For the price you will not find a better or more well equipt compact synth with as many features of sound. You can always get a larger or better keyboard to run the R3's tones.Very satisfied, would recommend to anyone wanting a synth.
Comments about Korg R3 Synthesizer / Vocoder Keyboard:
it sounds great, ruined two of the jacks with what i thought were bad cables but now I think it might just be the rather flimsy construction of the whole thing - anyway that's all forgivable, given the features and the price, but what is not forgivable is the TEMPO KNOB JITTER/CLOCK INSTABILITY (SOMETHING.) I bought this mostly to be my live master keyboard and need to sync samplers to it - nope. Got a gear with a faulty clock to make up for Roland SP404's crappy clock, UGH. Given that and the fact that it will NOT SURVIVE GIGGING I think i might have to sell it.
Comments about Korg R3 Synthesizer / Vocoder Keyboard:
This synth was delivered to me with a bad DSP chip, so it sounded all messed up. I sent it back, got a new one, and THAT one's DSP chip was broken as well.Korg produces TOYS. period. If you want a real synth save up a few more bucks and get a nord or virus, these R3's are TOYS.Build quality is that of a TOY. Cheap plastic feels like if it took a fall it would shatter. The only plus side to this synth is the sound - it sounds great, but again, the build quality is so poor and the 2 times mine was delivered broken has lost all my faith in korg.Once a great synth manufacturer, now a TOY COMPANY.
Comments about Korg R3 Synthesizer / Vocoder Keyboard:
I'm very glad to have bought this sweet synth. Korg hasn't dissapointed me with anything they have put out so far. This thing is just as powerful as the radias and way cheaper! it's got a nice vocoder, and it's actually got an XLR mic output with a fairly decent mic, which the Microkorg doesn't have. Easy and quick to program, packed with features. If you are serious about playing synth, or looking for your first synth you can't go wrong with this!
