Korg Opsix MkII Altered FM Synthesizer

Korgs original Opsix synthesizer debuted to critical acclaim, attaining new heights of digital synthesis in an impressively easy-to-use form factor. Now, the dark horse of FM synthesis rides again with the Opsix MkII Altered FM Synthesizer, doubling its polyphony from its predecessors 32 voices to a massive 64 voices of 6-operator FM madness. Its velocity-sensitive, revamped 37-key chassis conceals a deceptive level of depth into its streamlined interface, blending user-friendly arrangements with six distinctive styles of synthesis, allowing you to get as granular as desired in your sound design, but never more than a few steps away from one of its 250 diverse presets. Analog modeling, waveshaping, additive synthesis, and more are always on tap within the synths time-bending architecture, and synth scholars are especially impressed with its broad range of expressive tools, including assignable aftertouch, 30 built-in FX, a polyphonic motion sequencer, a randomizer, and an armature of limitless sonic virtuality begging to be explored.
We dont have to look too hard at Korgs illustrious history to recognize their innovations in both analog and digital synthesis, as well as bridging the liminal sonic spaces between them. The Opsix MkII channels that aural expertise through groundbreaking digital modeling technology, boasting six distinct shades of synthesis in a single instrument. By removing parts of the sound you dont want, Subtractive hones in on precisely what you want to hear, with up to six envelopes and multi-modeled filters to channel classic to contemporary synth sounds. Semi-modular reroutes signal paths to subtly or drastically change your sound, with a handy Algorithms section to reshape your base without needing patch cables. Analog boasts a wealth of stackable waveforms alongside analog-style controls, capable of booming basses, stinging lead lines, lush pads, and more. Turn to Waveshaping for some added distortion, which is great when seeking to channel a dirtier overall sound with plentiful overtones. Additive stacks waveforms and blends harmonics for a wide range of dissonant and harmonic sounds. Classic FM rounds out the list, which is capable of many of those iconic synth sounds heard from the 1980s to the present day, all accomplished courtesy of genuine 6-operator FM architecture.
When FM synthesis was popularized throughout the 1980s, it came with an often frustrating caveat: it was incredibly difficult to use, regardless of the latent sonic potential within this harmonically rich approach to synthesis. With the original Opsix, Korg tore down that barrier to entry, and the Opsix MkII continues its legacy of paradoxically expanding the possibilities of FM synthesis while making it more accessible than ever. Hands-on controls boast a satisfying tactility with real-time visual feedback to indicate which operators are functioning as Carrier signals and which are responsible for modulation. With Korgs heavy-duty 12-route V.Patch virtual patching system, modulation possibilities have never been so creatively inspiring, allowing you to craft intensely complex and detailed patches across its robust 64-voice polyphony, six operator modes, 40 preset algorithms, and a trio of ADSR envelope generators. Of course, if youre feeling lucky, throw the dice. The Randomize feature will not only allow you to conjure unique synth patches with a single click, but also let you choose to randomize specific aspects of your patch, like the algorithm, the operators, and more, for controlled chaos thats yours to sculpt and wield.
For all of the Opsix MkIIs synthesis capabilities, youll be pleasantly surprised by just how much power Korg has packed under the hood for near-endless sonic sculpting. With oscillators alone, 21 waveform options ranging from basic shapes and multi-bit-rate variants to complex additive options and