You'll have to reconsider everything you thought you knew about FM synthesis. The Altered FM sound generation of the Korg opsix expands the sonic horizons of digital hardware synthesizers by combining typical elements of virtual analog with an FM generation structure, featuring filters, envelopes, LFOs, and effects that, thanks to immediate control, will make you not miss the most used virtual instruments in modern music production.
Korg Opsix Video (Update 2.0.1 News)
What is Korg opsix?
Korg opsix is an "evolved" FM synthesizer based on 6 operators. With its surprisingly accessible mixer for operator management and the flexibility of its sound engine that goes far beyond traditional FM synthesis, this instrument maximizes the potential of digital sound synthesis. The Korg opsix is a keyboard synth for musicians of all backgrounds, modern and ready to provide classic FM sounds and a synthesis structure that propels you into the future of sound design. Whether you are new to the world of sound synthesis, looking to expand your sound palette, or a purist of original FM synthesis, the opsix will not disappoint your expectations. opsix gives you many sonic possibilities at an extremely competitive price.
- Explore FM synthesis intuitively
- Full editing with 6 DATA ENTRY knobs
- 6 operator modes to expand FM synthesis
- 40 preset and user algorithms
- 3 envelope generators, 3 LFOs and 12 virtual patches for extended modulation
- 11 powerful filters, including those from MS-20 and Polysix
- 3 sets of 30 high-definition effects
- Satisfying visual editing with spectrum analyzer and oscilloscope
- Powerful 16-step polyphonic sequencer
- Randomize function to generate unpredictable sounds
- Favorite preset memories and assisted transition function (seamless) between patches
- Compact design with 37-key keyboard
Korg Opsix Video by Enrico Cosimi for Synth Cafè
6-operator FM synthesis, and much more
opsix is a new digital synthesizer based on a 6-operator sound generator developed by Korg. Although the instrument uses a 6-operator structure like classic FM synths, opsix does not just reproduce their sounds, but reinvents them completely! With various waveforms, the operator modes go far beyond the world of frequency modulation synthesis and are combined with a multimode filter to merge with the concept of subtractive synthesis. Korg opsix allows us to circumvent the complexity of FM synthesis in order to focus on exploring new sounds, rather than pure programming. As simple as it appears at first glance, opsix relies on the typical intuitiveness of analog synthesizers to control the power of what is probably one of the most articulated digital synthesis structures.
Exploring FM synthesis has never been so simple. Nowadays, musicians use digital hardware synthesizers for the immediacy of interaction that distinguishes them from software synths. The 6 sliders and the same number of rotary potentiometers of the operator mixer, as well as the 6 multifunction knobs on the opsix panel are emblematic. The Korgvolca FM (click here for info/purchase) was the first reincarnation of FM synthesis with essential parameters comfortably controllable from the panel, but with opsix we went much further.
The knobs and faders supported by a two-color LED backlight will allow you to quickly understand their correlation with the operators and the role they play depending on the algorithm in use: orange for carriers, purple for modulators. This will allow you to apply immediate and direct modifications to the pitch and volume of the carriers, to manage the brilliance and intensity of the harmonics on the modulators. Through these controls, opsix puts complete management of its sound generation structure at your fingertips, allowing you to tame the unpredictability of FM by subtracting or adding sound components as if you were using a mixer or a drawbar.
Complete editing with data entry potentiometers
In addition to the mixer for the 6 operators, in the section on the right of the panel, opsix presents a group of rotary controls. Using these 6 DATA ENTRY potentiometers, we will have access to in-depth editing. Thanks to the indications that will appear on the large OLED display, we will never risk getting lost in menus as happened with FM synthesizers of the past. The opsix's initial page is HOME/ALGO, which includes main parameters such as algorithms, envelopes, and effects. Always use this page in combination with the operator mixer to begin your sonic experience, both in sound design and in performance.
The 6 operator modes that expand FM synthesis
Naturally, opsix incorporates everything related to FM synthesis, but not only that... In addition to sine waves, opsix offers a wide range of waveforms to obtain more complex sounds, which can also be used as a subtractive synth with a filter. The opsix's operator modes can be used to generate sounds that go beyond what traditional FM synthesis has accustomed us to. You can create sounds using different modulations than FM. Opsix provides you with a very wide sonic horizon, letting you combine the 6 operational modes of the operators (FM, ring modulation, filter, filter FM, wavefolder, and effect) with a wide palette of selectable waveforms.
40 preset algorithms and user algorithm
An algorithm is a combination of different operators, roles, and connections. In opsix, we have 40 preset algorithms that go beyond the traditional concept of FM synthesis. In addition, thanks to the user algorithm, we can build and set up an algorithm from scratch to further extend the sonic potential of this digital hardware synthesizer.
Dr. Leonardo Gabrielli explains FM Synthesis
Extended Modulation
The synthesis offered by opsix has an extra gear thanks to the processors integrated in the final stage of the signal chain. The MOD section works independently of the operators and provides us with 3 envelope generators and 3 LFOs, with a virtual patch that allows up to 12 sources to interact with as many destinations, all selectable from a robust list of parameters and functions. All this represents an incredible source of extension of the instrument's sonic potential, allowing the generation of extremely particular and evolutionary timbres, especially modern ones comparable to the most popular EDM virtual instruments currently in vogue.
The powerful filters of the Korg opsix
Unlike traditional FM synthesis, the FILTER section of opsix supports you in sound creation by offering the classic subtractive synthesis experience typical of the analog world. Select the filter from a list that includes low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, and band-reject filters with 2- and 4-pole slopes and resonance, as well as emulations of the MS-20's high-pass and low-pass and the Polysix's low-pass for those who want to add that final touch of vintage to their sounds.
The effects of the Korg opsix
The high-definition effects present in opsix can also be safely used for live recording in a recording studio. The instrument offers 3 series (usable simultaneously) of 30 effects. From classic signal processors like compressor, equalizer, chorus, flanger, phaser, and stereo delay to more distinctive, unique effects: rotary speaker, grain shifter, etc... A reverb could certainly not be missing to add spaciousness and dimension to the powerful sound generation chain.
Spectrum analyzer and oscilloscope
The spectrum analyzer integrated in opsix is a fundamental tool for visualizing FM synthesis. It shows us in real time the level of each frequency band so that we can see the distribution and harmonic changes introduced by the modulations. Also present is the oscilloscope, which shows us the final waveform reproduced by the synthesis chain.
16-step polyphonic sequencer
The 16 buttons located on the right of the lower part of the panel, just above the keyboard, illuminate green when operating as steps for the sequencer, evoking the classic colors of FM synths. In the integrated polyphonic sequencer, we can record up to 6 notes for each step, modify the velocity, gate time, and length of each note. This allows us to create musical phrases, simulate strumming or rolls; functions not always available in classic 16-step sequencers. In addition, the opsix's motion sequencer allows us to record automations for 6 distinct parameters, whether they are constant for the duration of the phrase or programmed on the individual step to create real drastic changes that will result in actual rhythms.
From the 37-note keyboard for immediate use to the step sequencer to compete with grooveboxes. Simply press PLAY to discover the potential of this powerful instrument.
The Randomize function for unexpected sounds
When you want to experiment, use the Randomize function already familiar to wavestate users. Press the button with the dice icon to generate a completely new, unprecedented sound. You can use this option on the entire sound, or only for operators, algorithms, or sequences. Use the stochastically generated sound as is or modify it to your liking: there are no limits to the sonic expressiveness of Korg's opsix.
Free software included with opsix
Korg opsix entitles you to free licenses for software such as iZotope's "Ozone Elements," "Reason Lite," and various virtual instruments produced by Korg and other brands. Additionally, you will be entitled to a "Skoove" subscription: an application dedicated to interactive music lessons.
Apps for iPad/iPhone
KORG Gadget Le (music production studio DAW app)
KORG Module Le (piano/keyboard sound module app)
Software for Mac/Windows
KORG Collection - M1 Le (synthesizer sound module)
UVI Digital Synsations (synthesizer sound module)
AAS Ultra Analog Session (synthesizer sound module)
AAS Strum Session (acoustic guitar sound module)
AAS Lounge Lizard Session (electric piano sound module)
Propellerhead Reason Lite (DAW music production software)
Skoove free 3 month trial of Skoove Premium (online piano lessons)
KORG Gadget Le for Mac (DAW music production software)
iZOTOPE Ozone Elements (Audio Mastering Plug-in Software)
NB:Algam EKO is NOT responsible for technical and/or commercial support of software or music applications provided free of charge and/or via download with the distributed hardware product. For more information, please consult the website http://www.korg.com/bundle directly and contact the software manufacturers with whom you will enter into a contract during download and/or installation.
Korg opsix Features
Keyboard: 37 velocity and release velocity sensitive keys
Maximum Polyphony: 32 voices; or 24 voices depending on settings
