The Korg Monologue and Monologue XD are compact and powerful monophonic synthesizers that offer a wide range of features for both beginners and experienced synthesizer players.
Read on to see a full review of the Korg Monologue, to help you decide if this is the mini-synth that fits the bill for your studio or stage needs.
The Korg Monologue is available in Black, Dark Blue, and Silver.
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Contents
Design and Build Quality
The Korg Monologue XD features a sleek and modern design. The curved aluminum chassis makes the monologue durable and stage-ready. The knobs are mounted to the chassis instead of directly to the underlying circuit boards.
The Monologue represents excellent value for any musician due to its high-quality construction. It is available in a range of colors and its compact size makes it extremely easy to transport and use on stage or in the studio.
The Monologue synth is similar to the Minilogue that came before it, and it has the same real wood back panel, the same mini keys, and the same inputs and outputs.
The 25-key mini-keybed ranges from E to E, instead of the common C to C. This lines you up with guitars and bass guitars in standard tuning and makes it easy to hit low bass notes.
Connections
There are three 1/4-inch jack audio sockets, mono audio output, mono audio input, and Sync In and Outs.
There is also a USB port for MIDI, a pair of MIDI sockets providing In and Out, and a power switch with a 9v DC input. One unique addition to the Monologue is its ability to run on 6 AA batteries, which it comes bundled with.
One downside, however, is that it does not come with a 9v power adapter, an oversight on Korg’s part as most users will want the option of the power cord and the battery power.
Sound
- VCO 1: Saw, Triangle, and Square waveforms with waveshaping
- VCO 2: Saw, Triangle, Random waveforms, with waveshaping, Sync, and Ring Mod
- 2-pole VCF: Optimized for monophonic bass and lead sounds
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 Korg Monologue XD features a powerful sound engine that delivers high-quality sounds and synthesis capabilities and allows you to save up to 100 programs.
It includes a new multi-engine that provides a wide range of sound sources, including noise, VPM (variable phase modulation), and user-customizable oscillators.
Additionally, the Monologue XD includes a range of classic analog synth sounds, including bass, lead, and pad sounds.
Effects
The monologue has two oscillators and a handful of waveforms, plus waveshaping, Sync, and Ring Modulation capabilities. The oscillators feed into a 2-pole filter which is optimized for mono bass and leads.
Three envelope shapes along with Attack and Decay controls allow you to create spacey pads and soundscapes in addition to heavy bass or lead sounds.
With the onboard effects, you can drastically alter the sounds of this synth. Distortion is a powerful sonic tool, and the monologue’s built-in analog Drive circuit is ideal for creating synth sounds with character.
The overdrive adds power and weight to your synth sounds. The LFO also section achieves faster rates than the LFO in the Minilogue.
You can assign it to Pitch, Shape, or Filter Cutoff and the 1-shot LFO mode allows for envelope shaping. Two selectable LFO rate ranges allow for a vast range of modulation options.
Micro Tuning
Korg’s monologue allows for separate tuning per note, meaning it supports micro-tuning and custom scales. Use it to emulate subtle detuning to full dissonance. And beyond the factory scales, you can save up to 12 of your 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.
Overall, this analog synthesizer is sonically impressive with excellent customization options for your waveforms, and all from the power of 9v or 6 AA batteries!
Sequencer
The Monologue has a 16-track sequencer onboard which is fantastic for both composers and producers alike.
The sequencer on the Monologue has a sensible layout with 16 dedicated sequencer buttons making it a breeze to use.
This 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.
There is a per-step parameter lock for the sequencer which is a useful feature.
Recording
The Korg Monologue XD is a highly capable recording tool. The 16-step sequencer can be used to create complex multi-layered compositions.
Additionally, the instrument has a range of input and output options, including MIDI, USB, and audio, which makes it easy to integrate with other recording hardware and software such as professional DAWS.
The monologue even lets you record motion sequences to capture knob movements.
The Korg Monologue XD is designed with ease of use in mind, with a simple and intuitive interface that makes it easy to create complex and nuanced sounds, and record your compositions.
The Monologue monophonic mini-synth has easy access to all of its functions and settings with a range of. These can be used to adjust the sound parameters.
Performance
The Korg Monologue XD is a highly capable instrument when it comes to performance. Its advanced sound engines and effects provide a wide range of options for creative expression both in the studio and on stage.
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Conclusion
Overall, the Korg Monologue XD is a highly capable and versatile synthesizer that offers a wide range of features and capabilities for both beginners and experienced synthesizer players.
Its sound quality is excellent, and its range of classic analog synth sounds provides a wide range of creative possibilities.
Additionally, its compact size, ease of use, and affordability make it a great choice for musicians who are looking for a portable and powerful synthesizer.
