 Korg Unveils Cutting-Edge Radias SynthesizerKorgPosted 2006-02-02 Korg introduces the RADIAS synthesizer, a new instrument that combines traditional and forward-thinking concepts in both synthesis and physical design. Based on Korg’s proprietary MMT™ (Multi Modeling Technology) engine, this 24-voice synthesizer offers a variety of synthesis algorithms together with multiple effects, new comb filter and wave shaping features, modulation sequencing, as well as new formant-motion vocoding. RADIAS offers an innovative design that can be custom configured to suit your set-up. The sound module can be used independently or teamed with the unique dedicated keyboard, creating a seamlessly integrated instrument.
Each of the 256 onboard Programs is comprised of up to four timbres, which can be split, layered or operate independently on separate MIDI channels, allowing the RADIAS to function as a powerful performance system or multitimbral sound generator.
Each Timbre provides two oscillators, which share the low-aliasing design of Korg’s flagship OASYS. They deliver modeled analog, formant and Korg’s classic DWGS waveforms, PCM playback, as well as ring modulation and sync. The voice architecture provides dual multimode filters; three envelopes; two LFOs; three modulation sequencers; six virtual patches (for freely connecting any of 11 modulation sources to any of 15 destinations); two-band EQ; Drive; 11 types of Wave Shaping; and Punch (which emphasizes the attack portion of the sound).
Each Program contains an arpeggiator with six pattern types and two Step Sequencers, each supporting 32 steps with 8-note polyphony and adjustable gate time, velocity and on/off status per step. To speed up the sound creation processing, RADIAS includes templates for 128 synth timbres, 128 Insert Effects and 128 Master Effects.
One Timbre in each Program can be assigned to a Drum Kit. Each editable Kit contains 16 PCM waveform-based instruments, and there are 32 preloaded drum kits.
The Vocoder section features 16 bands, each with individual level and pan controls. Korg’s new proprietary Formant Motion function records up to 7.5 seconds of incoming formant information per Program (spoken words, scat singing or any sound), so users can recreate vocoder effects even when no microphone is present. Sixteen sets of Formant Motion information can be stored in internal memory and instantly recalled. As a bonus, a headset microphone is included, for instant vocoding right out of the box.
Two insert effects are available for each timbre, plus a program-wide master effect. The 30 included effects types range from delay, chorus and reverb, to compressor and talking modulator. Any effect parameter can be assigned to the front panel knobs for instant control, providing further versatility in sound design.
Two models are offered: RADIAS consists of the sound module section plus a dedicated 49-note, velocity-sensing keyboard with traditional Pitch and Mod wheels. The panel layout features a full complement of knobs and buttons, letting users enjoy the same intuitive feel and hands-on control as on an analog synthesizer. A unique mounting rail design allows the control module to pivot up or down, and even slide over to one side to accommodate a laptop computer, Korg ELECTRIBE, KAOSS Pad or other audio unit. The RADIAS•R is the dedicated sound module alone, and it can be used either as a rackmount or tabletop synthesizer.
Free RADIAS Sound Editor editor/librarian software allows for editing, managing and archiving RADIAS settings on a Mac or Windows PC using a simple USB connection for quick and easy data transfers.
The Korg RADIAS and RADIAS•R are available March 2006 with respective U.S. MSRPs of $1999 and $1899.
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