Korg microSAMPLER Sampling Keyboard
No longer available at zZounds
Big sampling power comes in a small package with this keyboard from Korg. With battery-powered capabilities, you can create your own loops on-the-go.
Overview
The addition to the Korg "micro" series serves up sampling with a powerful performance punch! The microSAMPLER delivers multi-mode sampling, resampling, Pattern Sequencing and over-the-top effects - and all under a fun-to-use intuitive interface. More than just a sampler, the microSAMPLER is a complete sound design studio for creating up-to-the minute loops and phrases.
Check out this video demonstration from Gearwire.com:
- One-Shot sampling for grabbing and triggering single events such as drums, etc.
- Gate sampling for playing a sound musically across the keyboard
- Auto-Next sampling for capturing phrases as multiple samples.
For grabbing a groove as separate samples on individual keys, choose the AUTO NEXT mode and use Tap Tempo to match the BPM of the source material. The microSAMPLER will automatically divide the sample equally across multiple keys. Each key can be set to capture anything from a 64th note to a full two measures. This method lets you automatically perform the same type of sampling as KEY GATE.
Key Gate sampling is best for grabbing multiple samples from the same source. With Key Gate, you can take multiple samples from the same source or phrase and assign them to different keys as you play them! The individual keys assign the sample and enable recording all at the same time. This intuitive method of sampling, editing, and mapping in a single step is fun, interactive and fast.
In addition, there's a resampling function that lets you play existing layered samples processed by an effect and played by the pattern sequencer - and capture it all as a new sample. You can even sample while playing, allowing the sampling process itself to become part of your expressive performance.
Power Supply: 9V DC AC Adapter (Included) or 6 AAA Alkaline batteries (Not Included) read less
Check out this video demonstration from Gearwire.com:
Giant Sampling / microSIZE
The microSAMPLER hosts a solid complement of top-end sampling features to expand your creative potential. This full-fledged instrument offers sixteen-voice polyphony, reverse playback, editing operations such as Normalize and Truncate, and a Time Stretch feature that lets you change the tempo without affecting the pitch. Selectable sample rates of 48 kHz, 24 kHz, 12 kHz, and down to 6 kHz let you sample at rates beyond CD clarity or add in that Lo-Fi vintage vibe. Each bank contains 36 samples (a maximum of approximately 160 seconds of recording time for monaural samples at a 48 kHz sampling rate) and sixteen patterns of sequence data; the microSAMPLER lets you store eight such banks in internal memory. The Keyboard mode takes a single sample and assigns it chromatically across the keys for instant playability. With its recessed controls, bright LEDs and informative display, the microSAMPLER is fun to use and easy to operate.Swiss Army Sampling
Too many instruments simply offer sampling as an added feature. The microSAMPLER… read more is all about sampling, in every creative form. Five distinct sampling methods allow you to work the way you want, to get the results you need. The microSAMPLER offers traditional One-Shot and Loop sampling, plus a number of creative sampling modes - Loop, Key Gate and Auto-Next. When it comes to sampling, the microSAMPLER has it all.Features
- Loop sampling for recording grooves and phrases, drum loops, etc.- One-Shot sampling for grabbing and triggering single events such as drums, etc.
- Gate sampling for playing a sound musically across the keyboard
- Auto-Next sampling for capturing phrases as multiple samples.
For grabbing a groove as separate samples on individual keys, choose the AUTO NEXT mode and use Tap Tempo to match the BPM of the source material. The microSAMPLER will automatically divide the sample equally across multiple keys. Each key can be set to capture anything from a 64th note to a full two measures. This method lets you automatically perform the same type of sampling as KEY GATE.
Key Gate sampling is best for grabbing multiple samples from the same source. With Key Gate, you can take multiple samples from the same source or phrase and assign them to different keys as you play them! The individual keys assign the sample and enable recording all at the same time. This intuitive method of sampling, editing, and mapping in a single step is fun, interactive and fast.
In addition, there's a resampling function that lets you play existing layered samples processed by an effect and played by the pattern sequencer - and capture it all as a new sample. You can even sample while playing, allowing the sampling process itself to become part of your expressive performance.
Sample Anything; Anytime, Anywhere
The microSAMPLER can run on batteries, so you can perform on the go - or capture samples anywhere. Both line input and mic input are provided to allow a broad range of input sources including electronic musical instruments, CD, and voice. A gooseneck microphone is included so you can capture sounds with ease. The convenient caddies (located beside the mic jack) provide a cradle for your portable MP3/audio player when using it as a sample source. Truly, the world is yours to sample anytime and anyplace.Pattern Possibilities
The pattern sequencer uses an overdub operating style that lets you continually layer your performances. You can switch between patterns during playback for seamless performances. Up to sixteen patterns (16,000 notes per pattern, or a maximum 64,000 notes) can be stored in each bank.The KAOSS Effect(s)
Developed for Korg's KAOSS PAD series, the effect engine serves up a great selection of effects - so important when editing samples. The twenty-one effects include not only traditional delay and chorus, but also ring modulator and grain shifter, and even a Looper that's derived from the Loop Recording feature of the KAOSSILATOR Dynamic Phrase Synthesizer. The effects can be applied to any sound while resampling, allowing the effects to be used over and over again for more sonic expression.Made to be Played
The microSAMPLER features the Natural Touch micro keyboard, offering greatly enhanced playability and expressive power. By adjusting the proportion of the black keys and white keys, they've made chords easier to finger, and the touch has been improved so that rapid phrases can be played more easily - and with less fatigue. The box-shaped keys project a sense of quality, and also allow smoother glides and smears. The controllers you need for an exciting performance are laid out on the panel for intuitive operation. The status of the samples assigned to each key (and the item being edited) is indicated by the lit state of the LEDs running along the top of the keyboard, ensuring excellent visibility even on stage.USB-eautiful
By using the free editor/librarian software for the microSAMPLER, you can manage a gigantic sample library that's all your own. You can back up sample and pattern sequence data to your computer via USB, or load samples and patterns back in just as easily. Importing and exporting of WAV/AIFF data on your computer is also supported. The possibilities are endless...Power Supply: 9V DC AC Adapter (Included) or 6 AAA Alkaline batteries (Not Included) read less
Specs
Specifications
Keyboard: 37 Natural-Touch mini-keys, velocity sensing
Sampling Specs:
- Sampling Rates: 48 kHz, 24 kHz, 12 kHz, 6 kHz
- Bank Structure: 36 Samples per Bank (160 Seconds max.)
- Available Banks: 9 Total (8 User +1 ROM)
- Sampling Time:
- - 48 kHz: 160 seconds (mono) per bank; x 8 Banks = 21.33 minutes (max.)
- - 24 kHz: 320 seconds (mono) per bank; x 8 Banks = 42.66 minutes (max.)
- - 12 kHz: 640 seconds (mono) per bank; x 8 Banks = 85.33 minutes (max.)
- - 6 kHz: 1280 seconds (mono) per bank; x 8 Banks = 170.66 minutes (max.)
Polyphony:
- 16 voices
Sampling Modes:
- One-Shot; Gate; Loop; Key Gate; Auto-Next
- Resample in any mode
Keyboard Modes:
- Sampling Mode: 36 Sample Playback Keys + 1 Audio Input
- Keyboard Mode: Single sample assigned chromatically across the keyboard
Effects:
- Structure: 1 Master FX
- Effect Types: 21 (Compressor, Filter, 4-Band EQ, Distortion, Reverb, Delay, L/C/R Delay, Auto-Panning
- Delay, Modulation Delay, Tape Echo, Chorus, Flanger, Vibrato, Phaser, Tremolo, Ring Modulation, Grain
- Shifter, Pitch Shifter, Talking Modulator, Looper)
Pattern Sequencer:
- Patterns: 16 Patterns per bank; x 8 Banks
- Note Count: 64,000 notes total; 16,000 per bank
- Resolution: 480 ppq (parts per quarter note)
Audio Connections:
- Input: 1/4-inch Jack (rear); XLR Balanced (top); with Mic/Line switch; Level knob
- Outputs: L/Mono, R; 1/4-inch unbalanced
- Phones: 1/4-inch Stereo Jack
Other Connections:
- MIDI: In, Out
- USB: Type B
Display:
- Custom LCD; 37 LEDs above keys
Dimensions:
- W x D x H: 20.31 x 9.37 x 2.56 in.
- Weight: 4.19 lbs
microSAMPLER Editor Librarian Software
Operating Requirements:
- PC: Microsoft Windows XP (SP3 or later); Windows Vista (SP1 or later); USB port
- MAC: OSX Version 10.4 or later; USB port
Power Supply: 9V DC AC Adapter (Included) or 6 AAA Alkaline batteries (Not Included)
Keyboard: 37 Natural-Touch mini-keys, velocity sensing
Sampling Specs:
- Sampling Rates: 48 kHz, 24 kHz, 12 kHz, 6 kHz
- Bank Structure: 36 Samples per Bank (160 Seconds max.)
- Available Banks: 9 Total (8 User +1 ROM)
- Sampling Time:
- - 48 kHz: 160 seconds (mono) per bank; x 8 Banks = 21.33 minutes (max.)
- - 24 kHz: 320 seconds (mono) per bank; x 8 Banks = 42.66 minutes (max.)
- - 12 kHz: 640 seconds (mono) per bank; x 8 Banks = 85.33 minutes (max.)
- - 6 kHz: 1280 seconds (mono) per bank; x 8 Banks = 170.66 minutes (max.)
Polyphony:
- 16 voices
Sampling Modes:
- One-Shot; Gate; Loop; Key Gate; Auto-Next
- Resample in any mode
Keyboard Modes:
- Sampling Mode: 36 Sample Playback Keys + 1 Audio Input
- Keyboard Mode: Single sample assigned chromatically across the keyboard
Effects:
- Structure: 1 Master FX
- Effect Types: 21 (Compressor, Filter, 4-Band EQ, Distortion, Reverb, Delay, L/C/R Delay, Auto-Panning
- Delay, Modulation Delay, Tape Echo, Chorus, Flanger, Vibrato, Phaser, Tremolo, Ring Modulation, Grain
- Shifter, Pitch Shifter, Talking Modulator, Looper)
Pattern Sequencer:
- Patterns: 16 Patterns per bank; x 8 Banks
- Note Count: 64,000 notes total; 16,000 per bank
- Resolution: 480 ppq (parts per quarter note)
Audio Connections:
- Input: 1/4-inch Jack (rear); XLR Balanced (top); with Mic/Line switch; Level knob
- Outputs: L/Mono, R; 1/4-inch unbalanced
- Phones: 1/4-inch Stereo Jack
Other Connections:
- MIDI: In, Out
- USB: Type B
Display:
- Custom LCD; 37 LEDs above keys
Dimensions:
- W x D x H: 20.31 x 9.37 x 2.56 in.
- Weight: 4.19 lbs
microSAMPLER Editor Librarian Software
Operating Requirements:
- PC: Microsoft Windows XP (SP3 or later); Windows Vista (SP1 or later); USB port
- MAC: OSX Version 10.4 or later; USB port
Power Supply: 9V DC AC Adapter (Included) or 6 AAA Alkaline batteries (Not Included)
Documents and Manuals
For support or warranty questions, please contact the manufacturer:
Phone: 631-390-6800
Web: https://www.korgusa.com/support
Phone: 631-390-6800
Web: https://www.korgusa.com/support
Reviews
Reviewers gave this product an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
(6 ratings)
Submitted January 24, 2011 by a customer from hotmail.com
"An Inspiring and Fun Tool for Sound Design and Making Loops"
Verified Customer
zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
If you want to get into the art of creative sampling, this is one of the best tools available. It's also terrific if you just want to make a beat quickly and jam. I could also see this being a great alternative to Ableton Live for live performers who want to trigger loops and have some fun with the effects. It is rather limited compared to software tools such as Live, Kontakt, NN-XT, etc. but it is a really great asset if you are the type of person who finds computers kind of un-inspiring when you are trying to develop ideas. The limitations actually make it easier for me because I don't have 8 million samples, a hundred parameters, and dozens of effects plug-ins to choose from whenever I want to make up a 4-bar loop. If you share this appreciation for the limitations and immediacy of hardware, do yourself a favor and purchase a microSampler. I really think it offers the best balance of sampling features at an affordable price.
Sound
The highest sampling resolution is 48 kHz at 24-bit, but you can also sample at 24, 12, or 6 kHz or use the decimator effect to reduce the resolution and/or bit depth. You can get anything from better-than-CD quality to lo-fi dirt. The onboard effects sound pretty good to me; they are much better than the effects on the Korg Electribe ES-1 MKII sampler I used to own. As for the included ROM sounds; they are mostly useless-- some beatboxing one-shots and loops, some keyboard sounds, and a few others miscellaneous… read more ones. Of course, you will mostly be recording/loading your own samples.
Features
The microSampler is great for working with one-shot samples (e.g. drum hits) or loops. The sequencer is simple, but it is adequate for making rhythmic patterns. You can slice a loop using the auto-next or key-gate sampling modes, which is useful if you want to do something like creating a drum kit from a loop. If you want to use the keyboard to play pitched samples, however, the microSampler is very limited. The microSampler cannot do multi-sampling, so most samples will sound crap if you play them more than an octave above or below the root note. Also, the sequencer can only sequence one keyboard part per pattern. You can adjust the decay and release of samples, but not the attack or sustain, which is kind of a strange omission. I would say that the pitched keyboard sampling features are adequate for doing little experiments or putting down a harmonic or melodic idea quickly, but most types of instruments will sound crap on this compared to even the most basic software sampler or rompler. The 21 effects are quite useful and really open up the sound design possibilities-- a multi-mode filter with a dedicated, tempo-syncable LFO, stereo compressor, 4-band EQ, decimator, several delay algorithms, reverb, various modulation effects, etc. You can only control two effect parameters at a time, but you can choose which two to assign the knobs to. Since you can only have 1 effect per bank, the re-sampling feature is tremendously valuable. Re-sampling enables you to apply an effect, re-sample, apply another effect, etc. and even tweak parameters as you are sampling, which makes some really wild sounds possible. The keys are very small, but they are velocity-sensitive and the feel better than a toy casio. No pitch or mod wheels, but you can use a pitch wheel if you plug in an external midi keyboard. The included gooseneck microphone is a really great tool that will let you get started recording your own samples right away. One other great feature is the free software editor that you can use to transfer samples between the microSampler and your computer via USB. It's very easy to use and is a vast improvement over samplers like the Electribe that require you to copy samples to a media card and load them into memory, etc. Because you cannot use media cards, the storage is somewhat limited, but I expect that it should be big enough for most applications.
Ease of Use
The interface is simple and intuitive. Everything pretty much works as you would expect it to.
Quality
The build quality seems decent. The plastic case seems durable and the knobs and buttons are recessed to prevent them from breaking. The audio ins and outs sound okay, and the backlit LCD screen looks nice. Overall, I think it is a well-built little unit.
Value
This product is a great value. It is definitely superior to the other hardware samplers in this price range, and can even compete with the more expensive MPC's.
The Wow Factor
It's kind of ugly looking, but the flashing buttons look cool in the dark. To many people, the microSampler (like the other "micro" keyboards from Korg) probably looks like a toy, but this is absolutely a professional-level product that is great at what it does.
Musical Background:
Music student and hobbyist
Musical Style:
Electronica, ambient, experimental read less
Sound
The highest sampling resolution is 48 kHz at 24-bit, but you can also sample at 24, 12, or 6 kHz or use the decimator effect to reduce the resolution and/or bit depth. You can get anything from better-than-CD quality to lo-fi dirt. The onboard effects sound pretty good to me; they are much better than the effects on the Korg Electribe ES-1 MKII sampler I used to own. As for the included ROM sounds; they are mostly useless-- some beatboxing one-shots and loops, some keyboard sounds, and a few others miscellaneous… read more ones. Of course, you will mostly be recording/loading your own samples.
Features
The microSampler is great for working with one-shot samples (e.g. drum hits) or loops. The sequencer is simple, but it is adequate for making rhythmic patterns. You can slice a loop using the auto-next or key-gate sampling modes, which is useful if you want to do something like creating a drum kit from a loop. If you want to use the keyboard to play pitched samples, however, the microSampler is very limited. The microSampler cannot do multi-sampling, so most samples will sound crap if you play them more than an octave above or below the root note. Also, the sequencer can only sequence one keyboard part per pattern. You can adjust the decay and release of samples, but not the attack or sustain, which is kind of a strange omission. I would say that the pitched keyboard sampling features are adequate for doing little experiments or putting down a harmonic or melodic idea quickly, but most types of instruments will sound crap on this compared to even the most basic software sampler or rompler. The 21 effects are quite useful and really open up the sound design possibilities-- a multi-mode filter with a dedicated, tempo-syncable LFO, stereo compressor, 4-band EQ, decimator, several delay algorithms, reverb, various modulation effects, etc. You can only control two effect parameters at a time, but you can choose which two to assign the knobs to. Since you can only have 1 effect per bank, the re-sampling feature is tremendously valuable. Re-sampling enables you to apply an effect, re-sample, apply another effect, etc. and even tweak parameters as you are sampling, which makes some really wild sounds possible. The keys are very small, but they are velocity-sensitive and the feel better than a toy casio. No pitch or mod wheels, but you can use a pitch wheel if you plug in an external midi keyboard. The included gooseneck microphone is a really great tool that will let you get started recording your own samples right away. One other great feature is the free software editor that you can use to transfer samples between the microSampler and your computer via USB. It's very easy to use and is a vast improvement over samplers like the Electribe that require you to copy samples to a media card and load them into memory, etc. Because you cannot use media cards, the storage is somewhat limited, but I expect that it should be big enough for most applications.
Ease of Use
The interface is simple and intuitive. Everything pretty much works as you would expect it to.
Quality
The build quality seems decent. The plastic case seems durable and the knobs and buttons are recessed to prevent them from breaking. The audio ins and outs sound okay, and the backlit LCD screen looks nice. Overall, I think it is a well-built little unit.
Value
This product is a great value. It is definitely superior to the other hardware samplers in this price range, and can even compete with the more expensive MPC's.
The Wow Factor
It's kind of ugly looking, but the flashing buttons look cool in the dark. To many people, the microSampler (like the other "micro" keyboards from Korg) probably looks like a toy, but this is absolutely a professional-level product that is great at what it does.
Musical Background:
Music student and hobbyist
Musical Style:
Electronica, ambient, experimental read less
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