Korg phase8 Synthesizer

Magnetism and sound research

Korg introduces the Phase8, an extraordinary synthesiser that utilises a specially developed form of acoustic synthesis. This synthesis is neither strictly analogue nor digital. Instead, it is based on haptic interaction with physical objects. The synthesiser features eight differently tuned metal resonators, which are vibrated by electromagnetic impulses. Users can adjust and modulate the sound and volume progressions using physical controls. Functions such as envelope shaping, sequencing, analogue wavefolding, and pitch-dependent modulation are available for sound customisation.

The sound characteristics of the resonators largely depend on how they are interacted with. Whether you touch, strike, pluck, or come into contact with various objects, such as small or large coins, a piece of wood, or a whisk, the effects can vary significantly and are worth exploring. Additionally, the resonators can be easily swapped for different pieces if needed. Along with the three resonators designed exclusively by Korg Berlin, the package includes five other resonators. This allows the Phase8 to be used with different scales and enables the production of a wide range of sounds.

The integrated step sequencer supports the synthesiser’s eight-voice polyphony and enables the recording of controller movements. Users can also skip individual steps, resulting in polymetric rhythms. Moreover, a total of eight patterns can be saved, each with a pattern length of eight steps.