Korg RADIAS Synthesizer / Vocoder

Past, present, and future come together in one thrilling instrument that is every synthesist's dream. With a bold new approach that is at once both daring and familiar, RADIAS exceeds common analog expectations and rapidly takes off for uncharted territories. Based on Korg's cutting-edge MMT engine, this 24-voice synthesizer offers a variety of synthesis algorithms together with multiple effects, new comb filter and wave shaping features, modulation sequencing, as well as new formant-motion vocoding. RADIAS offers an innovative design that can be custom configured to suit your set-up. The control module can be used independently or teamed with the unique dedicated keyboard, creating a seamlessly integrated instrument that delivers the sounds of the future today.

Innovative synthesis teamed with remarkable fidelity
The heart of RADIAS beats with Korg's cutting-edge MMT (Multi Modeling Technology) synth engine, and borrows much of its modeling techniques from Korg's flagship OASYS eliminating aliasing noise in even the highest frequencies and delivering clean, pure waveforms. RADIAS provides two oscillators for each timbre. Between them, they deliver not only modeled analog waveforms, but also formant waveforms, noise, ring modulation, sync, plus both classic and up-to-date PCM waveforms. When using the analog modeled waveforms, a variety of oscillator modulation algorithms including pulse-width modulation, a massive Unison mode, Korg's proprietary VPM (Variable Phase Modulation) or cross modulation can be used to create complex sounds, even from a single oscillator. RADIAS provides a dual-filter structure, allowing the two filters to be used individually, side by side, or in series for maximum versatility. Filter 1 is highlighted by a continuously variable multi-mode filter, embracing Low Pass, High Pass and Band Pass modes and new treatments in between. This dual filter arrangement provides a vast range of sounds that would be unimaginable from just a single filter, and opens up new sonic possibilities including some fantastic comb filtering. Three Envelope Generators (EG) are used to apply time-varying changes to the pitch, filter cutoff, and amp level, as well as many other parameters. The classic and intuitive four-stage ADSR design has been enhanced with five different attack and release curves, allowing the EG contours to be crafted with new levels of precision and articulation. Two LFOs are available to apply cyclic changes to a host of synth parameters. Six LFO waveforms are provided, including the popular "Sample & Hold" stepped wave. Each waveform can be extensively modified via the Shape control, greatly expanding the versatility of the LFO section for creating highly complex types of modulation. Adding Drive can produce the distinctive warmth of a true analog synthesizer and can also distort the sound intensely to generate new overtones. The amount of Drive is dependent on the level of each voice as it enters the mixer, so you can create nuances that cannot be achieved by an external effect unit. RADIAS offers eleven innovative types of Wave shaping even recreating the tonal character of an electromagnetic pickup. The Drive/Waveshaping circuit can be placed in different locations in the signal chain, affecting the sound in very meaningful ways. An additional Punch Level setting emphasizes the attack portion of the sound, letting you create sounds with even more impact. Clearly, this is a radical new instrument that is not bound by conventions of the past!

Dynamic modulation station
Three Modulation Sequencers can change a parameter's value in discreet steps over time, similar to using sequencing control voltages (CV) on analog synthesizers of the past. The value of each step can be edited in real time using the front panel knobs. Each Mod Sequence can be up to sixteen steps long, and each can play forwards, backwards, loop, etc., allowing you to create very detailed filter and panning changes or complex and evolving timbres that build over time. The six virtual patches are modern versions of the patch cords found on Korg's classic PS and MS series of synthesizers, among other legends of the past. Going beyond the hardwired limits of a normal voice structure, a virtual patch provides a method for freely connecting any of eleven modulation sources to any of fifteen destinations, accommodating even the most advanced modulation routings. Two audio input jacks and an internal envelope follower allow external audio sources to be processed, to be used as a modulation source, and even trigger the RADIAS. A powerful internal bus structure allows Timbres to be routed to trigger effects, the built-in vocoder, or as modulation sources for the step-sequencers.

Formant motion vocoding keeps things moving
Thanks to the included headset microphone, you can enjoy vocoding using your voice to modulate another sound the instant the idea strikes you, with the push of a single button. RADIAS provides a sixteen-band vocoder that allows the level and pan of each band to be individually adjusted to obtain a wide range of sounds, above and beyond the distinctive talking music and "robot voice" effects. Our new Formant Motion function can record up to 7.5 seconds of incoming formant information (spoken words, scat singing, etc.) so that you can re-create vocoder effects even without a microphone present. Sixteen sets of recorded formant data can be stored in the internal memory.

Powerful program parameters
RADIAS' effect section provides a two-band EQ and two insert effects for each timbre, plus a master effect for the complete program, delivering a total of nine possible simultaneous effects. Thirty effect algorithms are provided, ranging from delay, chorus, and reverb to compressor and talking modulator. You can assign any effect parameter to the front panel knobs for instant control, providing even more versatility in sound design. Arpeggiator settings can be made for each program individually, and the arpeggiator can be applied to any or all of the timbres in a program. Six types of arpeggiator patterns are provided. Patterns can be up to 32 steps long; the gate time, velocity, and on/off status can be set for each step individually to create the exact groove you want. Swing amount and octave range are also assignable for even more detailed control. Two step sequencers can record and play back performance data, each with up to 32 steps. By applying a step sequencer to a drum kit, you can use RADIAS as a programmable drum machine. Each step supports up to eight notes of polyphony, allowing the creation of dense sequenced passages and patterns that can be played back with just one finger. With sequence editing, you can adjust settings such as swing and gate time. The two step sequencers can be set to transpose live from the keyboard, and can also be linked to create a single step sequencer of up to 64 steps.

The best sounds around
RADIAS comes loaded with 256 programs, 32 drum kits, and 16 formant motion sets, all created by an international team of synth experts. A program can consist of up to four complete timbres, and each timbre can be assigned its own note range, output, MIDI channel and control parameters, allowing your RADIAS to perform as a multitimbral module or one monster performance synth. Each drum kit consists of sixteen different drum or percussion instruments assigned to separate keys. In addition to calling up an individual PCM drum waveform, each drum instrument uses all of the parameters in the synth section, such as filter, EG, LFO and virtual patches to create incredibly detailed sounds. To speed up the sound creation process, RADIAS includes templates that can be used as "starting points;" and you can begin your own customization from there. RADIAS provides template data for 128 synth timbres, 128 insert effects, and 128 master effects so you can create new sounds faster than you ever thought possible. And as easy as RADIAS is to use, you'll also appreciate the free RADIAS Sound Editor/Librarian software for editing, managing and archiving your RADIAS settings on your computer (Mac or PC). A single USB connection makes transferring data quick and easy.

New shape, new possibilities
You can choose the RADIAS model that's right for you; RADIAS consists of a sound module section plus a dedicated 49-note, velocity-sensing keyboard with traditional Pitch and Mod wheels. The panel layout features a lavish complement of knobs and buttons, letting you enjoy the same intuitive feel of creating sounds as on an analog synthesizer. The unique design allows the knob-laden control module to pivot up or down, and even move to the side to accommodate a laptop computer, ElecTribe, KAOSS Pad or other audio unit. RADIASR is the sound module by itself, which can be used both as a rackmount or tabletop synthesizer.

Specifications

• Tone Generator: MT (Multiple Modeling Technology) synthesis,Maximum Polyphony - 24 voices, Varies depending on the parameters that make up the sound.

Structure

• Synth: 2 oscillators + noise generator: Oscillator 1 - 9 basic waveforms, 4 types of modulation, PCM (64 synth sounds, 128 drum sounds),Oscillator 2 - 4 basic waveforms, 2 types of modulation,2 filters (w/serial, parallel, individual routings):Filter 1 (variable multi-mode) -24 dB Low Pass, -12 dB Low Pass, High Pass, Band Pass, Thru
• Filter 2 (switchable multi-mode) Low Pass, High Pass, Band Pass, Comb, 1 driver or wave shaper (11 types), EGs
• 2 LFOs,6 virtual patches, 3 modulation sequences
• Vocoder: 16-band vocoder.variable level/pan for each channel,formant motion function (sixteen 7.5 sec. formant motion data sets can be recorded), formant shift function,formant hold function
• Envelope Follower: A detected envelope can be used as a virtual patch source or effect control source, or to generate note-on/off (maximum 8-note polyphony)

Effect Section

• Number of Effects: 30 types
• Structure: 2-band EQ + 2 Insert effects per timbre (x4) + 1 Master effect

Arpeggiator

• Arpeggio Type: 6 types (Up/Down/Alt1/Alt2/Random/Trigger)
• Structure: Switchable on/off for each of 32 steps

Step Sequencer

• Simultaneous polyphony: 8 notes
• Structure: Two 32-step sequencers (both can be linked for playback),Three playback modes (OneShot/Loop/Step)
• Step entry via keyboard or panel keys

Programs

• Number of Programs: 256 (16 x 16 banks, including program/user area),128 Timbre Templates,128 Insert effect Templates,128 Master effect Templates
• Structure: Program = 4 timbres + 1 vocoder + 1 master effect + arpeggiator + 2 step sequencers
• Timbre = 1 synth program or 1 drum kit + EQ + 2 insert effects

Drums

• Number of Programs: 32 kits
• Structure: one Timbre = 1 drum kit, one drum kit = 16 synth programs, A drum kit can be assigned to one of the four timbres in a program.
• Keyboard: 49 keys (velocity sensitive)
• Controllers: modulation wheel pitch bend wheel

Connections

• Audio Inputs:
• AudioIn1: 1/4" phone jack
• AudioIn2: 1/4" phone jack and mini jack with Mic/Line SW
• Audio Outputs: MAIN OUTPUT (Lch/MONO, Rch): 1/4" phone jacks
• INDIV. OUTPUT (Lch, Rch): 1/4" phone jacks
• PHONES OUT: 1/4" stereo phone jack
• Control Inputs: Assignable Pedal, Assignable Switch,keyboard (FROM KYBD)
• MIDI: In, Out, Thru
• USB: TYPE B connector
• Display: 128 x 64 pixel full-graphic LCD with backlight
• Power Supply: DC 9 V

Dimensions

• RADIAS: panel upright 885 (W) x 383 (D) x 223 (H) mm, panel folded 885 (W) x 383 (D) x 99 (H) mm
• RADIAS-R: 482 (W) x 185 (D) x 76 (H) mm
• Weight: RADIAS: 19.18 lbs. / 8.7 kg, RADIAS-R:5.95 lbs. / 2.7 kg.
• Included Items: headset microphone (condenser microphone), AC adapter, CD-ROM (PC editor software, etc.)
• 4 washers, 4 bushings, 4 screws (RADIAS-R only), accessory shelf (RADIAS only)
• RADIAS / RADIAS-R Options: XVP-10 Exp/Vol Pedal, EXP-2 Expression Pedal,PS-1 Pedal Switch, DS-1H Damper Pedal