Korg X50 61 Key Synthesizer KeyboardThe Korg X50 is a lightweight, 61-key synthesizer with high-quality sounds, a user friendly interface and computer connectivity, all in a streamlined package designed for performing and computer-based musicians.
The X50 features Korg’s HI (Hyper Integrated) synthesis technology as found in the acclaimed TRITON series. Its 64 MB of PCM ROM offers a wide array of sounds, including a velocity-switched stereo piano, strings, guitar and synth timbres. The internal memory offers 512 Programs, 384 Combinations (each consisting of up to eight Programs) and 40 user (16 preloaded) drum kits — plus an additional 128 GM programs and nine drum kits.
Two master effects, a stereo 3-band master EQ and one stereo insert effect are available, using 89 different effect types. Effects parameters can be modulated in real time, with many effects that can sync to MIDI clock.
For live performance and songwriting, the X50 offers dual polyphonic arpeggiators that feature easy-to-use, one-touch functionality. In addition to five basic preset arpeggio patterns, the X50 also provides 251 patterns covering everything from simple riffs to complex polyphonic phrases and drum grooves. For expressive control over the sounds, effects and arp patterns the X50 offers a variety of real-time controllers — two switches, four knobs, plus pitch bend and mod wheels (all assignable).
An intuitive Korg interface makes sound selection quick and easy. Sounds are organized into 16 categories, and users can select the desired Programs and Combinations via a dedicated Category key. A convenient Audition button allows the user to preview Programs using a selection of musically appropriate riffs. Korg’s proprietary ClickPoint cursor system and a backlit LCD display further enhance navigation functions.
The X50 also offers integral USB MIDI functionality, for easy connection to computer-based systems. A powerful Multi Mode allows the X50 to be played from an external sequencer as a 16-part multi-timbral sound module. The included stand alone/plug-in editor software makes it easy to create and organize sounds from a computer (VST, AU and RTAS formats are supported), even from within the user’s DAW or sequencer application. In a first for its class, the X50 features individual outputs, allowing sounds of specific parts to be sent from separate outputs independent of other parts — useful in a variety of recording scenarios.
A modern, stylish body and integrated handles for easy transport complete the Korg X50 package.
Korg X50 Features
- 512 professional-quality sound programs produced by the HI synthesis system used on the world-famous TRITON series.
- 384 combinations, each allowing up to eight programs to be freely combined to create complex sounds.
- Multi Mode allows the X50 to be played from your external sequencer as a 16-part multi-timbral sound module.
- Powerful effect section with four processors (one insert effect, two master effects, one master EQ).
- Four-channel audio output (two main channels, two individual channels), a first in its class.
- Dual polyphonic arpeggiator for even more musical enjoyment.
- USB connector allows single-cable MIDI connection with your computer.
- Stand-alone and innovative plug-in sound editing software is included, allowing you to tweak and program the X-50, even within your DAW software.
Korg X50 Details
Korg's Brilliant Sounds In A Handy Size
The Korg X50 music synthesizer features the HI (Hyper Integrated) sound engine that's used on the world-famous TRITON series. It gives you pro-quality sounds in an ultra-compact body. This keyboard synthesizer delivers unbeatable convenience and enjoyment for live performance or song production.
A Rich Array Of Sounds And Powerful Effects
The 64 MB PCM memory contains a wide range of sounds, including piano, strings, guitar, and synth sounds. With 512 sound Programs, as well as 384
Combinations that let you use up to eight Programs together, you can start enjoying a diverse selection of great sounds right away. The effect section lets you simultaneously use four effects (one insert effect, two master effects, and one EQ), and provides a full selection of effect types such as reverb, chorus, and delay. Best of all, the X50 is compatible with Korg’s TR line of music workstations so you can share sounds and songs with Korg users around the world.
Dual Arpeggiator Makes Performance Even More Fun
An arpeggiator lets you play a variety of phrases using just one finger, and the X50 provides two polyphonic arpeggiators! For example, in Combination mode you can use the two arpeggiators to play drums and bass while you play chords and melody, giving you amazing power for live performances. In addition to five basic preset arpeggio patterns, the X50 also provides an additional 251 patterns containing various phrases. Of course you can also create your own original patterns and store them in internal memory.
Easy Operation For Immediate Use
Finding the right sound quickly when you have so many to choose from can be a problem on some systems, but never Korg’s! The X50 organizes its vast array of sounds into sixteen categories, and provides a Category Select function that makes it quick and easy to choose the sound you need from the category you specify. There's also an Audition Riff function that provides one-touch audition of each sound. Four knobs can be used to quickly adjust sounds, effects and arp settings, and the ClickPoint cursor makes the X50 a pleasure to use and play.
Light And Compact Design For Easy Portability
The X50 packs professional-quality sounds and a wide range of functions into an amazingly light and compact body. Even with a 61-note keyboard that gives you plenty of room to perform, the X50 boasts an ultra-light weight of only 4.5 kg (approx. 8.8 lbs.) - about the same as an electric guitar. The compact design ensures that it can fit into the smallest home studio workspace, and thanks to its cool side handles the X50 is easy to take along wherever you go.
Cutting-Edge Connections
In a first for its class, the X50 features individual outputs, allowing professional setups in which the sounds of specific parts are sent to their own outputs. This can be very useful in situations such as recording when you may want to EQ and process each sound separately, and for surround-sound applications.
The X50 also provides a USB connector that lets you establish MIDI connections with your computer using a single cable – no interface needed. A powerful Multi mode give you 16 parts to create music with, with the full complement of effects and other settings to make complete songs using only the X50 and your computer. 128 Multis can be saved and recalled, with 16 preloaded covering many common music styles and genres.
It also comes with editor/librarian software that makes it easy to create and organize sounds using your computer. Two versions are provided: a traditional stand-alone application and an innovative plug-in version (VST, AU, and RTAS formats supported) that can run within your DAW and MIDI sequencing software. Both versions are colorful, graphic-rich, and provide a wonderful interface for working with the X50 in all its modes.