Things just got fun again. Korg has taken the legendary Hyper Integrated (HI) engine that has fueled the entire TRITON line, and freed it from its workstation obligations to create two powerful new synths that are a blast to play, go anywhere, and sound incredible: microX and X50.

But Korg didn’t just strip stuff away. They’ve added a number of new features that make these two instruments versatile and up-to-date. Korg’s CickPoint™ allows you to move the cursor around the backlit LCD screen and select parameters with a single controller. For easier editing, each one ships with an Editor / Librarian program so you can graphically edit, save, and organize sounds on your computer. Best of all, this free software runs either as a stand-alone program, or it can run as a plug-in from inside your favorite RTAS, VST or AU environment; and USB-MIDI provides single cable convenience.

Speaking of computer sequencing, both instruments feature a new “Multi” mode that can save and recall 128 sixteen-part multi-timbral set-ups for easy interfacing with an external / software sequencer. Sounds can quickly be selected by Category, and pre-programmed “riffs” allow you to audition individual Programs. In Combi mode, up to eight programs can be split, layered and zoned across the keyboard for more dramatic performances.

Sure, portability is important (the microX even comes in its own travel case). But don’t let their size fool you. With 62 voice polyphony and 64MB of ROM (twice that of the original TRITON), the microX and X50 are packed with sounds. The X50 shares the same sound set as the TR workstation, with a great stereo grand piano, and improved set of essential sounds; nylon and acoustic guitars, electric pianos, strings, brass, voice and solo woodwinds. The microX, on the other hand, is set to take on the most modern synth and dance genres, plus a nice collection of unique ethnic instruments and traditional sounds as well. The microX and X50 provide a full suite of effect processors - plus a polyphonic arpeggiator. Two Master effects and an additional Insert effect provide extra kick, with 89 fully editable algorithms to choose from. There’s even a Master EQ. The programmable Arpeggiator and can create simple up/down lines, or full drum/groove patterns.

Which one is right for me?

X50
The X50 was definitely created with live performance in mind. At under 10 pounds, it features 61 full-size keys, Pitch and Mod Wheels, assignable switches, and four realtime control knobs that feature three parameter sets. Both models feature damper pedal, assignable pedal and assignable footswitch inputs.

microX
With its small footprint and low-dispersion red LCD, the 25 full-size key microX is at home in any studio environment. A four-way joystick replaces the Pitch and Mod wheels. The microX controller mode allows the four realtime knobs to access up to twelve parameters on an external MIDI device or software program. Sixty-four of these controller “Sets” can be saved. On stage, the microX is killer as a keyboard and/or a multi-timbral expander.