Korg OPSIX

FM synthesis in a new way

The Japanese from Korg have been on fire in recent years. 5-6 years ago, Korg Volca devices made it possible for everyone to turn the knobs of a real synthesizer, regardless of income level. Synthesizers from the Logue series proved that a digital engine inside an analogue synthesizer is a great idea. And the recent Wavestate brought the wave sequencer back to the masses. In turn, the new Korg OPSIX, which was presented in the spring of 2021, was Korg's attempt to bring something new to the world of digital FM synthesis.

6 digital operators

So, Opsix is a "modified" FM synthesizer with six operators. From the Yamaha DX7 and other FM classics, Korg's novelty differs in significantly expanded possibilities for sound modulation. In addition to 6 operators, the Korg OPSIX digital path includes 40 unique algorithms for frequency influence on the original signal. And the basic set of timbres goes far beyond the classic square, sine wave and saw. In total, 2 dozen sounds are built into the engine (8-bit, additive, noise, etc.), each of which can act as both a signal source and an operator that will modify the original wave.

Built-in arpeggiator, step sequencer and settings randomizer

In addition to FM modulation, Korg OPSIX provides a wide range of signal modulation controls and analogue style filters, including 3 envelope generators, 3 LFOs and 11 versatile filters that can aggressively howl like the original Korg MS-20 filter, or vice versa gently cut unwanted low frequencies in Polysix filter style. Also, the synthesizer is equipped with a collection of 30 built-in effects, three of which can be used simultaneously. Rounding out the picture is a built-in arpeggiator, step sequencer, and settings randomizer, allowing you to quickly turn the original sound into something completely new. Note that this combination quickly breaks through any creative block. The only thing we didn't quite like was the tiny digital display in the spirit of Electron devices, through which we have to adjust the sounds. However, this minus is easily balanced by the price, $ 700 for such features is considered a gift.