Korg multi/poly 37: 4 Reasons This Might Be the Ultimate Mid-Range Polysynth
When Korg released the original Mono/Poly in the early 1980s, it quickly became a cult favorite among synth enthusiasts for its unique blend of monophonic and polyphonic capabilities. The Monopoly’s raw analog sound and innovative design cemented its place in synth history, and it remains highly regarded today. Fast forward to the present, and Korg has once again embraced the power of polyphony in their recent synth releases. Models like the Minilogue and Wavestate have shown Korg’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of modern polysynthesis, combining analog warmth with digital versatility to meet the needs of today’s musicians. Building on this legacy, the Korg multi/poly 37 represents the next step in their polysynth journey. While paying homage to the original Mono/Poly, it brings cutting-edge technology and features that elevate it into the modern era. With a focus on flexibility, sound design, and real-time performance, the multi/poly 37 promises to bridge the gap between vintage-inspired tones and futuristic soundscapes. In this post, we’ll dive into four standout features that make the Korg multi/poly 37 one of the most exciting mid-range polysynths on the market today.
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Hybrid Oscillator Design for Expansive Sound Design
The heart of any synthesizer is its oscillators, and the Korg multi/poly 37 doesn't disappoint. Its hybrid oscillator section is where analog meets digital in the most seamless way possible. By blending the richness of analog waveforms with the complexity of digital synthesis, this hybrid engine opens up a vast palette of sound possibilities. Whether you're after thick, vintage-style analog leads or futuristic, evolving textures, the multi/poly 37 can deliver. This design empowers musicians and sound designers to explore beyond conventional boundaries, pushing creativity to new heights.
What sets this hybrid design apart is its versatility in generating both classic and cutting-edge sounds. You can mix sawtooth, square, and sine waves in their analog forms with more intricate digital waveforms, including wavetable synthesis. This fusion gives you control over textures that range from raw and gritty to clean and digital. The oscillator section also supports FM (Frequency Modulation) synthesis, allowing for rich harmonic content and complex timbres that evolve in real time.
On top of that, the user interface is intuitive, making sound design approachable even for those new to the world of synthesis. The dedicated knobs and parameter controls offer immediate feedback, letting users tweak their sounds with precision. The range of tones you can achieve is nearly limitless, making the multi/poly 37 perfect for everything from ambient pads to experimental soundscapes. It’s truly a sound designer's dream.
Real-Time Modulation Matrix with Customizable Routing
A standout feature of the multi/poly 37 is its real-time modulation matrix, a playground for musicians looking to bring their performances to life with dynamic expression. This system allows for endless customization, where you can route modulation sources like LFOs, envelopes, and even external control signals to almost any parameter on the synth. This kind of flexibility means you’re not limited to static sounds; you can make your patches breathe and evolve with the touch of a controller.
The real beauty of the modulation matrix is how easy it is to set up custom routings. With just a few tweaks, you can modulate filter cutoffs, oscillator pitch, or effects parameters, creating deep, morphing sounds that transform over time. Want to control the rate of an LFO with an envelope or modulate an effect with aftertouch? No problem—the modulation options are virtually limitless, allowing for complex, evolving patches that feel alive.
This real-time control over your sound becomes particularly powerful during live performances. The ability to assign multiple parameters to a single controller, such as the modulation wheel or aftertouch, means you can create dramatic shifts in your sound on the fly. It adds a layer of expressiveness to your performance that can set you apart, giving you control over the subtle nuances that take a synth performance from good to exceptional.
Analog Circuitry with FPGA Processing for Precision
The multi/poly 37 brilliantly combines true analog circuitry with cutting-edge FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) technology, offering the best of both worlds. While its analog circuits provide the rich, warm sound that synthesis enthusiasts love, the FPGA technology ensures ultra-fast modulation and sequencing with high precision. This hybrid approach makes the synth capable of handling both detailed sound manipulation and the lush character of analog synthesis without compromise.
The use of FPGA allows for super-fast modulation rates and complex sequencing, which wouldn’t be possible with traditional analog-only circuits. This means you can create ultra-precise, intricate patches where every little modulation, pitch bend, or filter sweep happens exactly as programmed, with zero latency. Combine that with the analog warmth of the oscillators, and you have a synth that’s as precise as it is characterful.
What really sets the multi/poly 37 apart in this regard is how it maintains the depth and subtle imperfections of analog sound while delivering the clean, reliable performance of a digital system. Whether you’re using it in the studio for detailed sound design or on stage for live performances, this balance of analog warmth and digital precision makes it a versatile powerhouse.
Built-in Analog Effects for Instant Sound Shaping
One of the most exciting features of the multi/poly 37 is its array of built-in analog effects. These effects allow you to instantly shape and polish your sounds without needing any external processors. The synth comes equipped with a variety of effects, including a lush analog reverb, a rich chorus, and a gritty analog distortion. These effects are designed to work seamlessly with the analog engine, adding depth and character to your patches right out of the box.
Having these effects integrated into the synth means that you can craft fully produced sounds on the fly. For instance, the reverb adds an incredible sense of space to your pads and atmospheres, while the chorus thickens up leads and basses, giving them a wider, more immersive feel. And when you want to add some edge to your sound, the analog distortion is perfect for dirtying up those otherwise clean tones, making it ideal for more aggressive, experimental music.
The beauty of the multi/poly 37’s effects section is that it’s fully integrated with the modulation system, meaning you can modulate the effects in real time. Imagine assigning an LFO to the distortion or controlling the reverb mix with aftertouch during a performance. This level of control makes the built-in effects not just a convenient add-on but a core part of the synth’s sound design potential.
Is the Korg multi/poly 37 Right For You?
So, is the Korg multi/poly 37 the right synth for you? It really depends on what you're looking for in a polysynth. If you value a blend of analog warmth and modern digital versatility, the multi/poly 37 has a lot to offer. Its hybrid oscillator design, real-time modulation matrix, and built-in analog effects provide a rich toolkit for creative sound design, making it a strong contender for both live performances and studio production. For musicians who appreciate deep sound-shaping capabilities and the flexibility to craft everything from vintage-style tones to experimental textures, this synth ticks a lot of boxes.
However, if you’re someone who prefers a more streamlined, plug-and-play approach, the multi/poly 37 might feel a bit complex, especially if you’re newer to synthesis. While its extensive features are a dream for sound designers, those who want immediate gratification without diving deep into modulation routing or complex patching might find it a bit overwhelming. Additionally, as a mid-range synth, it sits in a competitive price bracket, and there are other great options out there depending on your specific needs. Ultimately, if you’re after a versatile, feature-packed synth with a balance of analog and digital power, the Korg multi/poly 37 is well worth considering.
Other Polysynths to Explore: Comparing the Best Alternatives
Behringer MonoPoly
The Behringer MonoPoly is a faithful recreation of the spirit of Korg’s original 1980s classic, offering four-voice paraphonic synthesis with fully analog oscillators and filters. It retains the vintage sound of the original while adding modern conveniences like MIDI and USB connectivity, making it a great choice for those seeking classic analog tones with updated functionality. With features like oscillator sync, cross-modulation, and polyphonic mode, the Behringer MonoPoly offers a rich, vintage sound palette at a more affordable price point compared to other polysynths on the market.
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Korg Minilogue XD
The Minilogue XD is one of Korg’s most versatile mid-range polysynths, offering four-voice polyphony with a hybrid sound engine that combines analog oscillators and a digital multi-engine. The multi-engine allows for everything from wavetable to user-programmable oscillators, making it perfect for both classic and experimental sound design. It also features a 16-step polyphonic sequencer, stereo effects, and microtuning capabilities, giving musicians a range of creative tools to explore. Compact, intuitive, and powerful, the Minilogue XD offers a lot for those looking for a deep but approachable synth.
Sequential Take 5
The Sequential Take 5 delivers five-voice polyphony with an analog signal path, and it's perfect for those who want the warmth of analog oscillators with modern features. It includes two VCOs per voice, along with analog filters and overdrive for rich, fat tones. The velocity-sensitive keybed with aftertouch makes it a highly expressive synth for live performances. It’s also equipped with a modulation matrix, dual digital effects, and a multi-mode filter, all packed into a portable form factor. The Take 5 offers a premium sound engine in a compact and accessible package, ideal for both seasoned players and newcomers.
Arturia MiniFreak
The Arturia MiniFreak is a hybrid six-voice polyphonic synth that combines digital oscillators with analog filters for a broad range of tonal possibilities. Its sound engine allows users to blend multiple oscillator modes, from FM to waveshaping and superwave, offering incredible versatility for sound design. The inclusion of dual LFOs, modulation matrix, and onboard effects like reverb, delay, and distortion gives musicians creative flexibility in shaping their sound. The MiniFreak is an excellent alternative for those seeking deep modulation options and hybrid synthesis at an affordable price.
Modal Electronics Argon8
The Modal Argon8 stands out with its eight-voice polyphony and wavetable synthesis engine, perfect for those who love dynamic, evolving textures. It offers 32 high-resolution wavetable oscillators, with options for morphing and wave-shaping across a vast array of waveforms. The three stereo effects engines, along with a modulation matrix that includes eight assignable slots, allow for endless sound-shaping potential. The Argon8 also features aftertouch and MPE support, making it a solid choice for musicians who want expressive performance capabilities with deep sound design options.
Final Verdict: multi/poly 37 Pros & Cons
Pros
Versatile hybrid synthesis engine combining both analog and digital elements for a wide range of sounds.
Extensive modulation options for deep sound-shaping and creative expression.
Integrated analog effects that add richness and texture without the need for external gear.
Balanced mix of analog warmth and digital precision, offering flexibility in both live and studio settings.
Compact and portable design, ideal for musicians on the go or with limited space in their setups.
Cons
Complex interface may feel overwhelming for beginners or those seeking a more straightforward synth experience.
Four-voice polyphony may feel limited for more complex chordal or layered arrangements.
Mid-range pricing places it in competition with other versatile polysynths that might offer more voices or features.
FPGA-based digital control might not appeal to purists seeking a fully analog experience.
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