Korg Monotron Analog Ribbon Synth Revealed

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Korg has released a new analog synthesizer at Musikmesse 2010 in Frankfurt, Germany.  The Korg Monotron Analog Ribbon Synth is a compact, pocket-sized analog synthesizer with real analog circuitry, not digital modeling.

Reading the words “new analog synthesizer” is likely enough to inspire lust in any vintage synth lover.  Nowadays, synthesizers use digital modeling to mimic the source and arrangement of sound creation– but the Korg Monotron is powered by a real VCO (voltage-controlled oscillator) and VCF (voltage-controlled filter).  The Korg Monotron is a stunning simple device, adding an LFO and a simple, one-octave ribbon keyboard for touch style control.  There are presets, no patches– just a collection of five knobs to craft the sound of your choice and a simple keyboard to play it back.  Also, the slatted section in the upper right of the case is a built-in speaker, and the unit also features a headphone jack for private listening.

The Korg Monotron Analog Ribbon Synth may appear to be toy-ish, but it could certainly add analog depth to any studio or touring synth rig.  Just as well, the Korg Monotron is great just-for-fun, at home or on the go.  The Monotron will begin shipping in May 2010, but pricing information has not yet been revealed.