The Korg opsix takes everything you know about FM synthesis and turns it completely on its head. This altered six-operator FM synth reimagines what a standard digital synthesizer is capable of, opening up new and exciting sonic possibilities in the process. This is one seriously versatile and flexible synth, that's for sure.
Under the Hood
The auditory backbone of the opsix is the brand new six-operator sound generator. However, even though it shares a sound structure similar to any standard FM synth, it completely redesigns the tones that emit from the synth.
Enhanced FM Synthesis
Explore a variety of waveforms to generate sounds with far more dynamic and layered harmonic content than ever before. You'll find advanced operator modes which build sound that exceeds the abilities of a classic FM sound generator.
They can be used to form sound via modulation, other than just FM. Each of the five operator modes - filter FM, wave folder, filter, ring modulation and FM - can be used together, while choosing from a selection of different waveforms.
Hands-on Editing
DATA ENTRY knobs make editing an absolute breeze, giving you complete control over the finest nuances of your parameters. They're simple to use too, aided by six graphic settings displayed clearly on the integrated OLED display and a set of rotary encoders.
Thanks to sliders and knobs (with a pair of coloured LEDs) you can reference settings and any relationships among operators at a quick glance too.
Effects Library & Filters
Harness three high-definition effects at once (with 30 unique types available in total). These span chorus, EQ, compression, phaser, reverb, flanger, stereo delay, grain shifters, rotary speakers, and a whole lot more.
These are bolstered by a section of powerful filters, which provide an analog synth influenced subtractive synthesis. Swap between the likes of the Polysix low-pass filter, the MS-20 low-pass/high-pass filter, and the four/two pole high-pass, low-ass, band reject, and band-pass filters.
Modulation & Algorithms
A modulation section which operates away from the operators - with three LFOs, three envelope generators, and 12 virtual patches - ensures that you can harness a bunch of different routing options.
When it comes to algorithms, there's 40 user and preset ones available. It contains a smart user function too, which grants you the ability to build and layout your own algorithm.
Additional Tools
Use the integrated 16-step polyphonic note sequencer to craft patterns from the ground-up. Change the velocity, playback timing and gate time for individual notes, and record up to six notes per each step. This allows for both nuanced tonal changes, and rhythmic drum rolls alike. Add to this a motion sequencer, and you can augment your sounds by capturing tweaks of 6 parameters - delivering better variation with every step.
An onboard oscilloscope gives you the ability to reference the output waveforms, while an in-built analyser showcases your output levels across the frequency bands.
Randomise Mode
This button will formulate a completely random sound, allowing for intriguing tones that shift and morph. This randomise function can either be used for any sequences, the algorithm, the operators or for the complete sound, ensuring you've got plenty of options available. The random tone can then be edited further, or left alone if you love it already!
Included Software
Alongside the opsix, you'll get a suite of software from iZotope, including Skoove, Ozone Elements, and Reason Lite - as well as a library of software synths from KORG and other market leading brands.
Sound Librarian Update
The opsix Sound Librarian lets you view and organize data on a opsix connected to a computer via USB, and transfer sound data back and forth between the opsix and the computer. To use the opsix Sound Librarian, you need an opsix running software version 1.0.1 or later, a USB cable, and a USB-capable Windows / Mac computer. For macOS 11.0 (Big Sur) or later, you will need an opsix running software version 1.0.3
Key Features
- Compact build.
- 37-key keyboard.
- Smooth sound transition and favourite functions.
- Use the randomise feature to apply variation on the fly.
- 16-step polyphonic sequencer.
- Editing using oscilloscope and spectrum analyser.
- Utilise three high-definition effects simultaneously (with 30 types available).
- Eleven filters (Polysix, MS-20 etc).
- Three envelope generators.
- Three LFOs
- 12 virtual patches.
- 40 user and preset algorithms.
- Five operator modes for enhanced FM synthesis.
- Data entry rotary encoders for full editing.
- FM exploration.
- Six-operator FM synthesis.
