Korg is a company with a history of producing extremely popular synthesizers. Some of their past successes include the O1W, Triton, M1 and the MS20. Sounds from these instruments have shaped the history of popular music. Korg has a new synth that has been grabbing a lot of attention recently. At less than 5 inches wide and a price of under , the Korg Monotron puts authentic analog synthesizer sounds within reach of just about anyone.
There are many features that have contributed to the popularity of the Monotron but the thing that most people are latching on to is the distinctive analog tone it puts out. In fact, the Monotron includes the exact same analog filter architecture as the MS20, Korg's classic analog synthesizer. The MS20 is widely regarded as one of the best-sounding analog synths ever produced. It's amazing that you can now get this same sound out of a device that fits in the palm of your hand.
Lets take a look at some of the features that are driving the Korg Montron's popularity:
Ribbon Keyboard
One of the first things you'll realize after you pick up the Korg Monotron is that it's extremely easy and fun to play, mostly due to the ribbon keyboard. The ribbon controller keyboard opens up all sorts of expressive directions to anyone that gives it a try. In addition to playing with your fingers, you can also use a stylus to get more precise control of the synth.
Two Different Performance Modes
The fact that the Low Frequency Oscillator is switchable between Pitch Modulation and Cutoff Frequency Modulation modes means that the Monotron is both simple to use and extremely flexible at the same time. It follows the simple analog architecture of 1 Voltage Controlled Oscillator, 1 Voltage Controlled Filter and 1 Low Frequency Oscillator. Anyone that has used another analog synth should be able to immediately understand how this thing works. Not only that, but the LFO lights up and pulses in red based on the frequency of its setting.
The Same Voltage Controlled Filter as the MS20
As I mentioned previously, the Monotron uses the same analog filter as the Korg MS20. This ensures that you'll be able to get all sorts of great sounds and effects from this pocket-sized synth.
Built-In Speaker
On first glance, the inclusion of a built-in speaker may make it look like a toy but once you try it out you'll realize that the built-in speaker just contributes to the immediate appeal of the Monotron. If you prefer, there is a headphone jack but the built-in speaker sounds so good you may not use it much.
Auxiliary Input Jack
This is the hidden gem of the Korg Monotron. You can send any external, line-level signal through the filter section of the Monotron by connecting it here. This is perfect for processing your drum loops and vocals. Expect to waste hours and hours just playing with this one feature alone.
As you can tell, I really can't speak highly enough about the Korg Monotron. At a retail price of , there really isn't any reason why every music producer shouldn't have one. If you're still on the fence, take a look at all of the YouTube videos showing how much fun it is to make music with the Monotron. You'll be hooked in no time.
