Here's what Korg say about the M3M

The Korg M3M heralds the third generation of Korg Workstations.

The Korg M3M features a number of innovations distilled from the flagship OASYS including the new EDS (Enhanced Definition Synthesis) sound generator derived from the HD-1 engine design, the advanced second-generation KARMA functionality, and the multi-purpose control surface.

Adding innovations such as the new concept of “virtualized hardware” that allows an even closer integration with DAW systems, Drum Tracks which provide a instant groove to play along with, and the new "Korg Komponent System" concept that facilitates more flexible system construction, the M3 music workstation/sampler opens a new and exciting page in music making - it’s the workstation that rightfully deserves to wear the “M” that started it all.

The M3 features a newly developed “EDS” sound generating system based on a new chip design that was developed in parallel with the HD-1 engine from the flagship OASYS. It takes full advantage of the M3’s 256 Mbytes of PCM source material which is a veritable “best of” from the OASYS.

The effect section provides up to five Insert effects, two Master effects, and one Total effect. The 170 effect types include dynamic processing effects such as compressor and limiter, amp modeling and speaker simulation effects using Korg’s proprietary “REMS” modeling technology, and evocative effects like the Grain Shifter and Talking Modulator.

The M3 comes loaded with 512 Programs, and room for a total of 1,664 user sounds (13 Banks plus GM). All sound locations are fully editable (except GM banks), so you are always free to tweak a sound if needed.

The second generation KARMA functionality can help you play everything from natural instrument gestures like intricate finger-picking, strumming and harp glissandos, to complex cascades of notes, dance-riffs, gated and chopping effects and “improvising” drum grooves.

The color LCD of the M3 music workstation/sampler not only provides a touch-view GUI that ensures intuitive and easy operation, but it also operates as an X-Y Pad, allowing sound and effect parameters to be controlled in real-time by sliding your finger across or tapping on the screen – much like the innovative Korg KAOSS Pad.

Further control is provided by a Motion function that lets you capture and play back your finger moves to shape your sound and performance in unique ways. The screen even changes colors in response to the movement of your finger for cool visual feedback to your performance.

The RADIAS analog modeling synthesizer sound generator board (one timbre, up to 24 voices), with on-screen integration of all its parameters and full integration with the M3’s effects, control surface and KARMA functionality. It’s a powerful MMT-based (Multiple Modeling Technology) synth engine, featuring dual oscillators which combine to offer analog-modeled waves, DWGS (PCM) waves, noise, ring mod and more. Integrates fully with the M3.

The M3’s Open Sampling System lets you sample and resample in any mode to produce new remixed combinations of sounds and effects, or to capture full performances “In-Track” within the sequencer. Cutting-edge editing tools include Time Slice, Time Stretch, Crossfade Looping, Rate Change and Normalize.

The sequencer that’s at the heart of the M3’s song production is an intuitively-understandable 16-track design that holds up to 128 songs and 210,000 notes.

In addition to being a highly-developed music workstation, the M3 is also able to closely integrate with your computer. By connecting the M3 to your computer via USB and using the included stand-alone “M3 Editor” software, you can edit sounds and settings from your computer.

A plug-in version of “M3 Editor” is also provided, so you can use it from within your DAW as a plug-in instrument. The editor runs as a VST, AU or RTAS plug-in for maximum compatibility. For even more complete integration, Korg’s new “Virtualized Hardware” concept comes into play. When the EXB-FW FireWire board is installed, a single FireWire cable will convey both the M3’s MIDI and audio signals to the tracks of your DAW in which the plug-in is running.

The M3 provides two analog and two digital (S/P DIF) inputs as standard. In addition to the main two-channel output (L/MONO, R), there are four independent outputs as well as two-channel digital output (24-bit optical S/P DIF), meeting the needs of professionals.

Korg M3 main features include:

• Synthesis Technology: EDS (Enhanced Definition Synthesis), MMT (Multi Modeling Technology) sound generator can be added by installing the EXB-RADIAS
• Tone Generator: 256 Mbyte (when converted to 16-bit linear format), 1,032 Multisamples, 1,606 Drum Samples
• Maximum Polyphony: 120 voices, 120 oscillators max, single mode, 60 voices, 120 oscillators max, double mode
• Filters: Four types of filter routing (single, serial, parallel, 24 dB) Two multi-mode filters per voice (low pass, high pass, band pass, band reject)
• Sampling: 16-bit, linear, 48 kHz mono/stereo sampling, Resampling available (Open Sampling System)
• 64 Mbyte memory standard (expandable up to 320 Mbyte with EXB-M256 option)
• Supports Korg format, AIFF, WAV, AKAI S1000/S3000 (with advanced Program conversion), SoundFont 2.0 reading
• 5 Insert Effects (stereo in/out), 2 Master Effects (stereo in/out), 1 Total Effect (stereo in/out) are available simultaneously. 170 types
• The TouchView display can be used as an X-Y controller. Hold function provided. X–Y Control finger movements can be recorded in realtime, and memorized for each Program, Combination, or Song.
• 1,664 user programs, 640 preloaded (512 EDS+128 RADIAS with EXB-RADIAS option installed)
• 1,792 user combinations, 384 preloaded
• Drumkits: 144 user locations, 32 preloaded
• 256 GM2 programs, 9 GM2 drum kits
• 16-track MIDI sequencer with 480 ppq resolution, 128 Songs, 20 Cue Lists, 210,000 notes (max)
• RPPR (Realtime Pattern Play/Recording) - A set of 100 patterns are available per Song
• One KARMA module available in Program Mode, four KARMA modules available in Combination and Sequencer Modes, plus Master Control module, 2,093 preset GEs (Generated Effect)
• Controllers 8 sliders, 8 switches, 8 velocity-sensitive drum pads and chord triggers
• WAVE file editing functionality
• CD-ROM/R/RW can be used when a commercially-available USB drive is connected.
• Audio Outputs: L/MONO, R - 1/4" TS (Mono), unbalanced, INDIVIDUAL-1, 2, 3, 4 - 1/4" TS (Mono), unbalanced
• S/P DIF (optical 24-bit, 48 kHz), S/P DIF IEC60958 EIAJCP-1201, provides digital output of the same signals as AUDIO OUTPUT (MAIN) L/Mono, R
• Headphones - 1/4" TRS (Stereo)
• Audio Input: 1, 2 - 1/4" TS (Mono jacks)
• S/P DIF (optical 24-bit, 48 kHz) IEC60958 EIAJCP-1201
• MIDI IN, OUT, THRU
• 2 USB type A hi-speed connectors, supporting 480 Mbps (for storage devices)
• Semi-weighted synth action (Korg’s new keyboard design)
• Display: 5.7 inch color TouchView GUI, 320 x 240 dot, X–Y control function
• Dimensions - Module: 26.50"(W) x 7.95"(D) x 3.23"(H)
• Radias Board: user installable