The Korg Monologue is a programmable monophonic analog synthesizer. It has been launched with a new (unique) synthesis architecture, a new step sequencer, microtuning support and more. The smaller sibling to the Korg Minilogue, the Monologue features two-pole filter, drive circuit, 16-step sequencer, and E-E range.
Korg Monologue: Pros & Cons
- Pros: Big synth in a small package. Value For Money, solid build quality, capable of complex sequencing and sound wave modulation. Comes with batteries (but they won’t last long)
- Cons: Cheap plastic body
Use the 16-step sequencer to create acid-style basslines and more, and you can transpose your sequence just by pressing any key on the 25-key keyboard.
Korg Monologue Analog Synthesizer: Review
KORG monologue Analog Synthesizer comes with 25-keys, has sleek layout, comes with USB connectivity and MIDI.
While it is a monophonic synth, the options you get on this one makes it a much more desirable product. You can make some really awesome sounds using this synthesizer, and it hooks right into any amplifier and it’s ready to rock. Wonderful filters, updated electronics, comes with 80 (tweakable) built-in presets, 16-step sequencer, audio input, output, MIDI, and USB out.
You can do complex sequencing and sound wave modulation with it. You can use it for recording with a DAW. Its easy to create excellent synth patches.
Available in five different colours, the Monologue features a built-in step sequencer that allows users to record up to four knob movements for creating “motion sequences.” It features slim keys (most musicians prefer slim keys over proper piano keys on small mono synths.)
Artists can use the microtuning feature to experiment with Ionian, Dorian and other alternative scales, and also to create their own scales.
In terms of connectivity, you get audio and MIDI inputs/outputs with a USB port as well.
Great for Creating Bass Synth Lines
Bass players will like this board, it lets you match the keyboard range to a 4 string bass guitar. While it may not offer as many features as say a Novation Bass Station II, its much easier to make patches with this one, its also much smaller and lighter.
While it may not replace your Minimoog, multi-instrumentalists who play synth bass on a two octave keyboard will like this board. The board is small and compact enough to be kept on a music stand shelf. You can keep it near your primary instrument so that you can switch between the two.
Monologue vs Minilogue
Monologue has a similar design as its elder sibling Minilogue but is much cheaper. It houses the same synthesis design as the pricier Minilogue, and this one helps you create a monophonic sound “for all types of musicians.”
Korg Monologue: Video Demo / Review
Here are some audio clips that will give you the idea of how it sounds.
Korg Monologue Faetures / Technical Details
Here are the main features:
- Keyboard: 25 keys (Slim-key, velocity sensitive)
- Sound Generation: Analog synthesis. An all-new synthesis structure optimized for amazing monophonic sounds and sequences
- 100 program memories (80 presets included / 20 Users)
- 16-step sequencer with extensive motion sequence technology
- Microtuning: 32 settings (20 Preset tunings / 6 User scales / 6 User octaves). Each setting can be set the key.
- Controls: 23 dedicated panel controls deliver immediate parameter access
- Display: Real-time OLED oscilloscope provides visual feedback of parameter changes. Oscilloscope function to visualize the waveform in real time
- Battery-powered
Main Synthesis Parameters:
MASTER: Drive
VCO1: Wave (Saw, Triangle, Square), Shape
VCO2: Octave, Wave (Saw, Triangle, Noise), Sync/Ring, Pitch, Shape
MIXER: VCO1, VCO2
FILTER: Cutoff, Resonance
EG: Type (A/D, A/G/D, G), Attack, Decay, Int, Target (Pitch, Pitch 2, Cutoff)
LFO: Wave (Saw, Triangle, Square), Mode (Fast, Slow, 1-Shot), Rate, Int, Target (Pitch, Shape, Cutoff) - Sequencer: 16-step monophonic sequencer
- Rugged and stylish with aluminum top panel, chassis-mounted pots, rubber-coated knobs, and real wood back panel
- Connectors: Headphones. Output.Audio In.Sync In. Sync Out. MIDI In. MIDI Out. USB Type B. Audio Sync for all types of in-studio and live connectivity, including direct sync with minilogue, SQ1, volca, electribe, and more
- Power Supply: AA alkaline battery x 6 or AA nickel-metal hydride battery x 6Or AC adapter (DC 9V) (optional)
- Battery Life: Approximately 6 hours (using alkaline batteries) Approximately 8 hours (using nickel-metal hydride batteries)
- Power Consumption: 2.5 W
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 350 x 276 x 76 mm / 13.78? x 10.87? x 2.99?
- Weight: 1.7 kg / 3.78 lbs
- Color Variations: Silver, Black, Red, Dark Blue, Gold
- Included Items: AA alkaline battery x 6 (for verifying operation)
- Accessories: AC adapter (DC 9V). Sync Cable SQ-CABLE-6
Pricing and Availability
Korg Monologue monophonic analog synthesizer has a similar design as its elder sibling (Minilogue), houses the same synthesis design as the pricier Minilogue, but costs just a few hundred dollars. The extra features on the Monologue help create a monophonic sound “for all types of musicians.”
The Korg monologue puts rich, vibrant analog synthesis in your hands, and that too for a price that you cannot resist.
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Sequencer/motion sequencing, microtuning, waveshaping, audio rate lfo, great synth patches, and more. Use it for bass lines, midi synth is great for recording in time with a daw.
Sounds amazing. There’s much more functionality in the firmware, so be sure to get the detailed owners manual from Korg’s website to use those.
Only downsides – comes with a cheap plastic body (I would have gladly paid more for an aluminum shell) and lack of power supply. If you order this, get the Korg 9v power supply.
$300 KORG Monologue synth is a sequel, not a mini Minilogue
A 25-key, monophonic version of Korg’s clever 4-voice Minilogue polysynth wouldn’t be a bad idea. And it’s what you’d expect, given the Minilogue came out only at the beginning of this year. But that’s not what the Monologue is. No, the Monologue is more a sequel to the Minilogue than it is just one with less keys and voices. And there are a number of smart ideas here. There’s a new filter. You want some different character with a monosynth than a polysynth, so here there’s a new 2-pole VCF and analog drive for what Korg says gives you “more …
if you’re using an analogue synth for the first time, you will notice the difference between its sound and that of VST’s and Digital synths. These filters sound smooth and the step sequencer is so useful, with endless sonic possibilities.
Note: The Korg Sync app (designed for the monotribe) works very well with this synth as well. The app is a great way to sync the synth to Ableton Live without having to use USB or MIDI.