Korg Modwave MKII Wavetable Synthesizer Set

Powerful Synthesis Engine with Unique Wavetable Sounds, Kaoss Physics, and Motion Sequencing 2.0!

In 1985, KORG's DW-8000 combined digital wavetables with rich analog filters, enabling users to create sounds unimaginable with analog oscillators alone. Even today, this synth enjoys a large fanbase. The modwave builds on the legacy of the DW-8000 and translates its concept into a modern monster synth featuring incredibly versatile wavetable oscillators, beautifully sounding filters, extremely flexible modulation options, unmatched polyphony, comprehensive pattern sequencing, and direct real-time control—delivering unique, powerful, and easily customizable sounds and phrases.

However, the modwave also employs two other unique methods to animate sounds dynamically: Kaoss Physics and Motion Sequencing 2.0. Kaoss Physics combines an X/Y Kaoss pad with modulated gaming physics, creating an instantly responsive, interactive controller that is not only extremely powerful but also a lot of fun. Motion Sequencing 2.0 transfers the organic, constantly evolving patterns of Wave Sequencing 2.0 sound generation from the wavestate into the world of motion sequencing, using multiple tracks ("lanes") and real-time recording to produce complex, continuously changing phrases that conventional step sequencers cannot achieve.

Like Wave Sequencing 2.0 (wavestate) and Altered FM (opsix), the advanced wavetable synthesis of the modwave delivers completely independent sounds with a "one knob per function" concept that allows quick and easy manipulation of these sounds. Hundreds of preset sounds using this innovative architecture are sorted by category and can be intuitively edited via the four MOD knobs. The modwave’s special wavetable sounds include aggressive basses and leads as well as warm ambient pads that add new depth to your productions. But this is just the beginning!

For those who want to dive deeper, the seemingly endless possibilities of the modwave mk II quickly become apparent: thanks to its unique synthesis architecture, there’s always something new to explore. Save as many sounds as you like—there’s enough memory for thousands! You can even transfer your own samples and wavetables in standard formats into the instrument or create entirely new wavetables using the free WaveEdit software!

The modwave mk II delivers an impressive polyphony of 60 voices—almost double that of the original modwave (32 voices)—a feat unmatched by any other wavetable synthesizer so far! Responding to user requests, all LFOs now include options for free running, delayed start, and retriggering. Also new are a pre/post switch for reverb sends, new modulation sources, and much more...

Modwave Synthesis Engine

When we call our wavetable oscillators "versatile," we mean it. Starting with over 200 wavetables, each containing up to 64 waveforms selected from thousands of individual waves. Use over 30 different modifiers to change their basic character, plus 13 morph types to edit them in real time. Create new hybrid sounds from two different wavetables using the real-time A/B blend function. Let’s do the math: that’s already over 230 million possible wavetable variations before you even start thinking about additional modulation!

But that’s not the end of the possibilities! Expand your sonic palette further by transferring new wavetables into the instrument using the editor/librarian software. Try countless free and commercial wavetable libraries in the standard Serum format* or create your own with the free, cross-platform WaveEdit software, available in a special modwave version. Layer wavetables with samples from the modwave’s integrated PCM library, which spans several gigabytes, or import up to 4 GB of your own samples via KORG’s Sample Builder software!

*If an imported wavetable contains more than 64 waveforms, it is interpreted as a generated crossfade, skipping some intermediate waveforms to produce a 64-waveform version.

Each program features two fully equipped wavetable oscillators plus a sub-oscillator/noise generator and any one of a dozen filter types, including the aggressive MS-20 filter, the smooth Polysix filter, and the newly enhanced Multi Filter. Animate nearly every parameter via the extremely flexible modulation system with four triggerable envelopes, five LFOs, two MOD processors, and two key-tracking generators—plus motion sequencing with multiple lanes and Kaoss Physics!

Even with all this synthesis power, capable of using up to four wavetables per voice in a single sound program, the modwave achieves a polyphony of 60 voices—previously unimaginable for a wavetable synthesizer! Simply layer two sound programs to double your sonic possibilities again!

Kaoss Physics

Kaoss Physics models a ball rolling on a surface and bouncing off walls. This surface can tilt in any direction. A bump with adjustable height/depth and position attracts or repels the ball. Adjustable friction slows the ball’s movement, and a time parameter controls the overall speed of the model. All these characteristics are modulatable and can be changed in real time.

Send the ball on its journey with a swipe on the X/Y touchpad or let it move automatically via another modulation source. Dragging a finger across the touchpad also allows direct control of the ball. The ball’s position generates eight different modulation signals, which can be used to target any modulation destination: X and Y position, distance from center, angle relative to the X-axis, and separate signals for +/- X and +/- Y.

Walls can slow the ball as if padded or speed it up like in a pinball machine. Walls can also be removed entirely, causing the ball to reappear on the opposite side, reminiscent of early computer games.

This virtual environment can create very specific modulation effects. For example, use a centered bump with negative height so modulation values always eventually return to zero. Or place a bump with positive height on one side or corner to keep modulation values away from that zone.

The result is an interactive controller that amplifies your physical gestures and turns them into complex, musical results. Did we mention this is also a lot of fun?

Motion Sequencing 2.0

Inspired by wavestate’s Wave Sequencing 2.0, Motion Sequencing 2.0 divides timing, pitch, shape, and four sets of step sequence values into "lanes," each with its own loop start and end points, enabling highly comprehensive and customizable modulation recording.

Each time the sequence advances, the individual lanes combine to produce the output signal. For example, a step sequence step might sound with different length, pitch, and shape each time it plays. Loop points of each lane can be modulated per note via velocity, LFOs, envelopes, MOD knobs, or other controllers. In fact, every note of a held chord can play slightly differently!

Lanes can also randomize the order of steps each time the sequence loops. Finally, steps can be randomly skipped with a probability adjustable from 0% to 100%. The result is organic, constantly evolving sounds that you can control at any time. The two built-in arpeggiators can interact with motion sequences, opening even more possibilities.

Insights into the Synthesis Engine

Filters Galore

Add vintage character to your sounds with the aggressive MS-20 lowpass or highpass filters or the creamy Polysix lowpass—all with extended gain control to adjust resonance behavior. Shape and refine your sounds with a comprehensive collection of resonant 2- and 4-pole lowpass, highpass, bandpass, and band-reject filters. Or venture off the beaten path with KORG’s unique Multi Filter, offering modulated blends of different filter types simultaneously—now even with presets selectable via a panel knob, simplifying operation and expanding possibilities.

Abundant Control and Modulation

Loaded with knobs and controllers, the modwave invites experimentation. Oscillators, filters, envelopes, LFOs, and effects can be manipulated directly via panel knobs. Four programmable MOD knobs bring out the best in every sound. Use the knobs for real-time performances and save the results as new sounds. The HOLD button lets you sustain pressed notes or chords indefinitely while you adjust knobs or focus on another device.

Add Kaoss Physics plus pitch-bend and modulation wheels for multiple dimensions of expressiveness.

Still not enough? Nearly every knob and most parameters accessible via the menu can be modulated. You can even modulate individual steps of a motion sequence! MOD processors allow further processing of modulation signals with quantization, smoothing, curvature, and more.

Connectivity

Balanced stereo outputs enable professional connection to any recording or monitoring system. A headphone output is also available for silent playing or stage preparation. Classic MIDI jacks ensure connection to other MIDI-capable instruments or audio devices, and of course, the modwave supports class-compliant USB-MIDI connections to Windows and macOS systems.

Developed by KORG R&D in California

KORG R&D is responsible for the wavestate and the original Wavestation, contributed to the development of OASYS and KRONOS, and developed fundamental technologies found in many other KORG instruments. The modwave embodies KORG R&D’s philosophy by combining cutting-edge technology with impressive sound, extensive flexibility, and immediate physical control. Two of wavestate’s key sound designers, Airwave and Peter "Ski" Schwartz, collaborated with Francis Preve, Richard Devine, and the KORG voicing team to develop the modwave’s inspiring sound library.

Free Software Package

The modwave comes with a versatile collection of music software to help take your productions to the next level—including iZotope’s Ozone Elements for AI-assisted mastering, a trial subscription for the piano teaching software Skoove to improve your playing skills, and software synthesizers from KORG and other manufacturers.

Comfortable Stereo Headphones

The KH-238 delivers full, balanced sound with rich bass and clear highs. It offers plenty of volume while maintaining clean and precise stereo imaging. The softly padded, wide headband is adjustable in length with 12 steps per side for an optimal fit. For extra comfort, the ear cups rotate on two axes. The thick, soft padding of the circumaural cups also provides good external noise isolation. The integrated volume control on the cable is always within reach, simplifying use with PCs or MP3 players. The 3.5 mm stereo jack offers excellent transmission quality, and a 6.3 mm stereo adapter is included.

The second generation of the modwave—now with nearly double the polyphony, extended free-running LFOs, and more!