AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Korg General Synthesizers 2026
The top pick is Korg Monologue Monophonic Analog Synthesizer ($301). Korg Volca Beats Analogue Rhythm Machine gives you the most for the money at $148. Korg Wavestate 37-Key Wave Sequencing Synthesizer leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 29 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 11, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Korg Monologue Monophonic Analog Synthesizer
Monologue Silver · Korg
55 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
The Monologue Silver is a fantastic little analog powerhouse. It's incredibly fun for basslines, leads, and sound design, especially if you're into gritty, raw sounds. Perfect for producers, electronic musicians, or anyone wanting a focused, hands-on analog experience without a huge investment.
Pros
- Solid metal chassis provides a reassuring, robust feel.
- The sequencer is surprisingly deep for a monophonic synth.
- Excellent value for an all-analog, subtractive synthesizer.
Cons
- Limited polyphony restricts layering and complex arrangements.
- The 25-key keyboard feels cramped for extended playing sessions.
74AudioFu
Index↓ 10.0%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$335 · Aug 14$301 now$301€269 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Korg MicroKORG 2 37-Key Synthesizer / Vocoder
microKORG 2 · Korg
45 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight2.1 kg
The microKORG 2 is a fantastic, compact synthesizer that's surprisingly deep. It's perfect for bedroom producers, electronic musicians, or anyone wanting a portable, fun sound design tool – just be prepared for those mini keys! It's a great entry point into synth sounds and offers a lot of creative potential for its size.
Pros
- Excellent value for a modern, versatile synthesizer.
- Improved keybed offers a more playable, responsive experience.
- The dual engine allows for surprisingly complex sound design.
Cons
- Mini keys are cramped; not ideal for fast, complex playing.
- Limited polyphony can be restrictive in dense arrangements.
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Korg Multi / Poly 37-Key Analog Modeling Synthesizer
multi/poly · Korg
28 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight3.5 kg
- Key actionSemi-weighted keys
The Korg multi/poly is a seriously powerful sound design tool. It’s got a ton of sonic potential thanks to its flexible architecture and modulation options, making it ideal for experimental musicians, soundtrack composers, or anyone wanting to build complex, evolving patches. Just be prepared for a steeper learning curve than some simpler synths.
Pros
- Exceptional flexibility with oscillator routing and modulation options.
- Dual filter design delivers a wide range of tonal possibilities, from aggressive to smooth.
- Motion Sequencing 2.0 allows for dynamic and evolving soundscapes.
Cons
- 37 semi-weighted keys lack the feel of a full-sized, weighted action.
- The sheer number of parameters can be overwhelming for beginners.
72AudioFu
Index↓ 12.6%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$1,037 · Aug 14$905 now$905€808 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Korg MicroKORG 2 37-Key Synthesizer / Vocoder
microKORG S · Korg
45 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Weight2.5 kg
The microKORG S is a seriously fun, affordable entry point into synthesis. It's a great grab-and-go option for electronic music producers, or anyone wanting to experiment with vocoding and quirky sounds. Don't expect studio-grade depth, but it's a fantastic creative tool for the price.
Pros
- Excellent value for a compact, feature-rich synthesizer
- Vocoder functionality is surprisingly usable and creative
- The slim keys are surprisingly playable, especially for beginners
Cons
- Limited polyphony restricts complex, layered sounds
- The 37-key layout can feel cramped for complex playing
71AudioFu
Index↓ 2.1%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$524 · Aug 14$513 now$513€458 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Korg Minilogue XD Polyphonic Analogue Synthesizer
Minilogue · Korg
41 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Weight2.8 kg
The Minilogue is a surprisingly capable and fun analog synth, perfect for bedroom producers, sound designers, and anyone wanting a portable, hands-on experience. Its accessible price and intuitive sequencer make it easy to dive in, while the voice mode unlocks some truly unique sonic textures. It's a great entry point into analog synthesis.
Pros
- Robust aluminum control panel feels premium and durable.
- Rubberized knobs offer excellent tactile feedback and grip.
- Voice mode provides unique sonic sculpting possibilities.
Cons
- 37 slim keys can feel cramped for players with larger hands.
- Limited modulation options compared to higher-end synths.
69AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$532 now$532€475 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Korg Modwave mkii 37-Key Wavetable Synthesizer
Modwave MKII · Korg
26 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight2.9 kg
The Modwave MKII is a seriously fun and capable synth. It’s perfect for sound designers, electronic musicians, or anyone wanting a fresh take on wavetable synthesis with intuitive performance options. The Motion Sequencing and KAOSS Physics really set it apart – it's a joy to experiment with.
Pros
- Excellent wavetable engine delivers uniquely evolving textures.
- KAOSS Physics offers truly novel, expressive performance control.
- Motion Sequencing 2.0 enables intricate, evolving soundscapes easily.
Cons
- 37-key layout limits playing versatility for some users.
- Modulation matrix, while powerful, has a learning curve.
68AudioFu
Index↓ 16.2%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$763 · Aug 14$640 now$640€571 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Korg KROSS 2 61 61-Key Synthesizer Workstation
Kross 2-61 · Korg
33 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight3.8 kg
- Keys61 keys
The Kross 2-61 is a fantastic grab-and-go solution for keyboardists needing a wide palette of sounds. It’s a great choice for gigging musicians, songwriters, or anyone needing a versatile and portable instrument—just be aware of the compromises inherent in its compact design.
Pros
- Impressive 120-voice polyphony unlocks lush, layered sounds.
- The integrated effects engine provides surprisingly usable and creative textures.
- Lightweight design (3.8 kg) makes it incredibly portable for gigging musicians.
Cons
- 61-key action feels somewhat compromised compared to full-sized keyboards.
- Limited editing capabilities compared to more dedicated workstation synthesizers.
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$746 now$746€666 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Korg Wavestate 37-Key Wave Sequencing Synthesizer
Wavestate SE · Korg
28 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight8.6 kg
The Wavestate SE is a seriously cool synthesizer offering a fresh take on sound design. Its wave sequencing engine is unlike anything else out there, perfect for experimental musicians and sound designers who want to create evolving, textural soundscapes. It's a premium-priced instrument, but the sonic possibilities are truly expansive.
Pros
- Metal-coated knobs offer satisfying tactile control and durability
- Wave Sequencing 2.0 provides uniquely evolving, complex textures
- Vector joystick enables expressive, real-time morphing of sounds
Cons
- 61-key action may feel cramped for seasoned keyboardists
- Wave sequencing engine has a learning curve for immediate mastery
67AudioFu
Index↓ 13.6%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$1,530 · Aug 14$1,321 now$1,321€1,179 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Volca Bass is a seriously fun little bass machine. It's perfect for electronic musicians, beatmakers, or anyone wanting a portable, analog bass sound without a massive investment. It’s surprisingly capable for its size and price point, though don’t expect a full-featured studio workstation.
Pros
- Analog oscillators deliver warm, punchy bass tones.
- Compact size makes it incredibly portable for music creation.
- Step sequencer and Active Step provide rhythmic experimentation.
Cons
- Limited polyphony restricts complex layering possibilities.
- Miniature controls can be fiddly for larger hands.
63AudioFu
Index↓ 7.0%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$159 · Aug 14$148 now$148€132 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Korg MS-20 Mini Semi-Modular Analog Synthesizer
MS-20 mini · Korg
28 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight4.8 kg
The MS-20 mini is a fantastic way to get that classic, gritty Korg sound without needing to hunt down a vintage unit. It’s surprisingly versatile for a monophonic synth, especially with the ESP and patching, making it a great choice for sound designers, experimental musicians, and anyone wanting to explore raw, analogue character.
Pros
- Excellent recreation of the original MS-20’s aggressive, raw sound
- Self-oscillating filter offers unique, distorted textures easily
- The ESP provides creative external signal processing capabilities
Cons
- Mini keys can be challenging for players with larger hands
- Monophonic nature limits its use for complex, layered sounds
62AudioFu
Index↓ 1.1%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$622 · Aug 14$615 now$615€549 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 29 general synthesizers
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Korg Volca Kick Analog Bass / Kick GeneratorVolca Kick · Korg59↓ 4.0%$160€143$160€143Check ↗
- 12
Korg Wavestate MkII 37-Key Wave Sequencing SynthesizerWavestate MkII · Korg59↓ 5.3%$635€567$635€567Check ↗
- 13
Korg Opsix mkii 37-Key Altered FM Synthesizeropsix MKII · Korg58↓ 6.7%$622€555$622€555Check ↗
- 14
Korg Monotron Delay Ribbon SynthesizerMonotron Delay · Korg52↓ 6.3%$50€45$50€45Check ↗
- 15
Korg Volca FM2 Digital FM Synthesizer/SequencerVolca FM2 · Korg52↓ 1.9%$173€154$173€154Check ↗
- 16
Korg Kross 2-88MBKorg52Stable$1,164€1,039$1,164€1,039Check ↗
- 17
Korg Volca Nubass Vacuum Tube SynthesizerVolca Nubass · Korg51Stable$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 18
Korg Volca Modular Micro Modular SynthesizerVolca Modular · Korg51Stable$170€152$170€152Check ↗
- 19
Korg Monotron Duo Ribbon SynthesizerMonotron Duo · Korg48Stable$48€43$48€43Check ↗
- 20
Korg RK-100S 2 BlackKorg · 2 finishes47↓ 1.0%$775€692$775€692Check ↗
- 21
Korg miniKORG 700SmKorg47↓ 9.7%$1,355€1,209$1,355€1,209Check ↗
- 22
Korg Volca Keys Analog Loop SynthVolca Keys · Korg46Stable$151€135$151€135Check ↗
- 23
Korg Monologue Monophonic Analog SynthesizerMonologue Silver Case Set · Korg42↓ 7.4%$352€314$352€314Check ↗
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Korg Monologue Monophonic Analog SynthesizerMonologue Blue Case Set · Korg41↓ 2.8%$347€310$347€310Check ↗
- 25
Korg Monologue Monophonic Analog SynthesizerMonologue BK Case Set · Korg41↓ 1.2%$369€329$369€329Check ↗
- 26
Korg MicroKORG 2 37-Key Synthesizer/VocoderMicrokorg Case Bundle · Korg39Stable$626€559$626€559Check ↗
- 27
Korg Volca Beats Analogue Rhythm MachineVolca Bass Bundle · Korg38↓ 5.7%$186€166$186€166Check ↗
- 28
Korg Volca Keys Analog Loop SynthVolca Keys Bundle · Korg28Stable$189€169$189€169Check ↗
- 29
Korg Minilogue XD Case BundleKorg25Stable$817€729$817€729Check ↗
General Synthesizers by the numbers
Measured across all 241 models we track, not a sample.
Median $503 — half of all general synthesizers here cost less.
median of 182 models · 1.12 kg–15 kg
most common · 38 models
median of 21 models · 25–88
How to choose the best general synthesizers
Tone Character
Korg's signature often leans towards a brighter, more immediate sound than some of their competitors. It's not always a harsh brightness, though - more of a 'present' quality that helps instruments cut through, especially useful for pads and leads in a busy arrangement. Some models have that distinct 'Korg honk' in the midrange, which can be killer for funky sounds.
Keybed & Action
This is a big one. Korg's keybeds can be a bit of a mixed bag. Some are surprisingly responsive, offering a good level of articulation, while others feel a little mushy and lack the nuance you'd want for expressive playing. Always try before you buy if possible - the action is crucial for getting the most out of any synth.
Modulation
Korg's modulation options are usually solid, though sometimes a little less intuitive than other brands. You'll find LFOs, envelope generators, and often some decent onboard effects, but digging into the deeper modulation routings can take some time and experimentation. It's not as immediate as a Juno, but it's there if you're willing to learn it.
Build Quality
Let's be honest, Korg's build quality hasn't always been their strong suit. You'll find a lot of plastic in their enclosures, which keeps the price down, but it also means they can feel a little less robust than some of the more expensive competition. It's usually fine for gigging, but treat them with a little extra care.
Sound Engine Flexibility
Korg's general synths often blend analog-style emulations with digital capabilities. This gives you a wide range of sonic possibilities, from warm, vintage-inspired tones to more modern, crystalline sounds. It's about finding the sweet spot where those two worlds meet.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're looking at Korg synths - smart move. They've been quietly churning out workhorses for decades, often overlooked in the Roland vs. Yamaha debate, but offering a unique flavor. Korg's general synths aren't about flashy gimmicks; they're about delivering reliable sounds and a playable feel that'll serve you well from the bedroom to the stage, even if some of the build feels a little... plasticky. Let's dive into what makes them tick.
Don't expect bombproof construction; Korg prioritizes bang-for-your-buck. Look for models with aftertouch if you want expressive control - it's a game-changer for pads and strings. The older Korg workstations can be a steal, but be prepared to spend some time learning their often-complex menus.
And seriously, try the keybed before you commit - that's the biggest potential dealbreaker.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 34 general synthesizers from the Thomann catalogue (of 241 in the category). Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
Are Korg synths easy to program?
It depends. Some models, like the Korg Minilogue, are relatively straightforward. Others, particularly the older workstations, can be a labyrinth of menus. Be prepared to invest some time in learning the workflow.
Do Korg synths have good effects?
The onboard effects are generally decent, often providing a usable chorus, reverb, and delay. They won't replace a dedicated effects chain, but they're convenient for quick fixes and adding some polish to your sounds.
Are Korg synths good for beginners?
Absolutely. The Korg Minilogue and Korg Volca series are fantastic entry points, offering a lot of value for the price. They're forgiving and encourage experimentation.
How do Korg synths compare to Roland or Yamaha?
Korg often has a brighter, more immediate tone than Roland, and sometimes more digital flexibility than Yamaha. It's a different flavor - try them all and see what resonates with your ears.
Are Korg synths reliable for live performance?
Generally yes, but be mindful of the plastic build. Treat them with reasonable care, and you shouldn't have any major issues. Having a backup power supply is always a good idea for any gig.
