Korg have announced the upcoming release of the microKORG Crystal, a special edition version of their popular miniature synthesizer that marks the 20th anniversary of the original instrument’s launch. The company have also confirmed that the recently announced limited run of the ARP 2600 FS will also be available in the UK and Ireland as well as the USA.
microKORG Crystal
This special edition version of the microKORG features a stainless top panel with a mirror finish, and is housed in a semi-transparent chassis that reveals the instrument’s internal construction and electronics. A pair of aluminium side panels then finish off the look, replacing the retro wooden alternatives found on the original synth.
The instrument is a four-voice analogue modelling synthesizer equipped with a pair of oscillators and a noise generator, with a multi-mode filter offering a choice of 24dB/octave low-pass, and 12dB/octave low- band- and high-pass filter options. A pair of envelope generators are also present, as well as two LFOs, and a range of onboard effects including modulation, delays and EQ are also included.
The microKORG Crystal also comes supplied with a microphone for use with the built-in four-voice vocoder section, as well as a transparent vinyl carry bag.
ARP 2600 FS
Korg also recently announced that the ARP 2600 FS, their recreation of the iconic ARP 2600, would return to production for a limited run due to popular demand. Many assumed that this release would be exclusive to customers in the US, but the company have confirmed that this is not the case, and that the instrument will also be shipping to the UK and Ireland later in May 2023. Those interested in purchasing an ARP 2600 FS can sign up to be notified of its availability on the Korg website.
To find out more about each instrument, check out the following SOS reviews:
Pricing & Availability
The microKORG Crystal will be available in July 2023, priced at £569 including VAT. The ARP 2600 FS is expected to arrive to the UK and Ireland at the end of May 2023, priced at £3499 including VAT.
