Korg has unveiled the iMS-20, a new iPad app based on classic Korg synth instruments with a modern twist.
iMS-20 includes an emulation of the legendary Korg MS-20 semi-modular analog synth, along with a built-in 16-step analog sequencer, based on the Korg SQ-10. Also, additional new features, including an analog drum machine, mixer, dual Kaoss pads and direct access to the SoundCloud platform.
The MS-20 needs no introduction, being one of the most popular analog mono synths, known for its aggressive and deep sound. Korg emulated it (as standalone software and VST/AU plug-in) in its Legacy collection a few years ago (still available) and now ported it to the iPad platform (with lots of extra features).
The Korg SQ-10, also introduced in the late 1970s, is effectively recreated for the iMS-20 app. Featuring 16 steps, this analog sequencer can produce either a series of pitches or create a cyclic pattern of control changes to the volume, panning, filter brightness and other synthesizer parameters. The iMS-20 version also includes new improvements not found on the original, such as easy control of notes, volume, pan, or synth/effect parameters.
The iMS-20 also features a six-part drum machine, with independent control of pitch and gate time. By using the seven-channel mixer, complete with several Insert effects, users can bring together the MS-20 and drum machine components to create full musical phrases. The iMS-20 is also equipped with dual Kaoss pad control surfaces – one for note creation as made famous by Korg’s KAOSSILATOR, and one for manipulating parameter values in real-time, as found on Korg’s KAOSS series of effects processors.
Last but not least, users can share their creativity via the SoundCloud integration feature. Audio data exported by the iMS-20 app can be quickly published and shared, and users can access the SoundCloud server right from within iMS-20 app.
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Price: $15.99 (USD) until January 31, 2011, after which point the app will be available for the regular price of $32.99
Fab is a musician and Editor-in-Chief for AudioNewsRoom (ANR), a music technology online magazine.
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