The Korg monologue puts rich, vibrant analog synthesis in your hands for an amazing price. Its engine is similar to the acclaimed minilogue analog synthesizer, with updated voicing and a 2-pole VCF that's optimized for monophonic bass and lead tones. The powerful 16-step sequencer is perfect for creating classic acid-style basslines and more, and you can transpose your sequence just by pressing any key on the 25-key mini-keybed. Factor in micro tuning, per-step parameter lock for the sequencer, and the ability to save 100 programs — the Korg monologue analog synthesizer is an impressive monosynth indeed.
In classic Korg fashion, the monologue starts with two oscillators and a handful of waveforms, plus waveshaping, Sync, and Ring Modulation capabilities. The built-in OLED oscilloscope shows you the results of your sound-shaping — very cool. The oscillators feed into a 2-pole filter designed specifically for the monologue, optimized for mono bass and leads. Three envelope shapes along with Attack and Decay controls provide a wide range of creative options, allowing you to create evocative pads and soundscapes in addition to rock-solid bass and lead sounds.
Distortion is a powerful sonic tool, and the monologue's built-in analog Drive circuit is the perfect thing for creating synth sounds that come alive. Add a bit of sizzle or full-on fuzz, it's your call. At moderate levels, the Drive circuit can add a definite sense of punch and impact without sounding overly distorted — try it on some percussion-type sounds and you'll see what we mean.
The monologue's LFO section can achieve faster rates than the LFO in the Korg minilogue, and you can assign it to Pitch, Shape, or Filter Cutoff. The 1-shot LFO mode allows for creative envelope-like shaping. Two selectable LFO rate ranges allow for a vast range of modulation options.
If there's one thing synthesists at Music Experience love, it's knob-per-function programmability, and the monologue delivers. And while it's easy enough to shape your sounds on the fly, monologue allows you to save up to 100 programs for instant recall.
Korg's monologue allows for separate tuning per-note, opening up the colorful world of micro tuning. Use it to emulate subtle detuning to full dissonance. And beyond the factory scales, you can save up to 12 of your own custom scales. And when you're not experimenting with alternate tunings, monologue's self-tuning circuit maintains well-tempered tuning no matter how long you play it.
Creating sequences on the monologue is intuitive, and you can transpose your sequence at any time simply by pressing a key — very cool for live performance. As you'd expect from Korg, the monologue also lets you record motion sequences to capture knob movements. And by popular demand, monologue's sequencer allows for per-step parameter locks, which means you can set parameter values on a per-step basis.
Thanks to its smart keybed layout, the Korg monologue is easy to fit into a band setting. The 25-key mini-keybed ranges from E to E, instead of the common C to C. This lines you up with traditionally-tuned guitars and bass guitars, making it easy to hit low bass notes in tune with your bandmates.
The monologue offers Audio Sync to connect with Korg Volcas, electribes, minilogue, and the SQ-1 sequencer. MIDI In/Out is present too, along with USB MIDI, making the monologue equally capable as a standalone synth, an element in your hardware synth rig, or as a MIDI controller for your DAW.
The curved aluminum chassis gives the monologue reassuring durability — once you get your hands on it you'll know it was made to perform. Even better, the knobs are mounted to the chassis instead of directly to the underlying circuit boards. You normally wouldn't expect to find these features on such an affordable synth, making it a serious value for any performing musician.
Sound Engine Type(s) | Analog |
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Number of Keys | 25 |
Type of Keys | Synth action, slim-keys, velocity sensitive |
Polyphony | Monophonic |
Number of Presets | 100 programs (80 factory, 20 user presets) |
Oscillators | 2 x VCO (square, triangle, sawtooth), 1 x LFO |
Effects Types | Analog Drive distortion |
Sequencer | 16-step |
Audio Inputs | 1 x 1/4" |
Audio Outputs | 1 x 1/4" |
Headphones | 1 x 1/4" |
USB | 1 x Type B |
MIDI I/O | In/Out |
Other I/O | 2 x 1/8" Sync in/out |
Features | Micro Tuning, OLED oscilloscope screen |
Power Supply | 9V DC power supply (sold separately) / 6 x AA batteries |
Height | 2.99" |
Width | 13.78" |
Depth | 10.87" |
Weight | 3.7 lbs. |
Manufacturer Part Number | MONOLOGUEGD |