Korg Karma Workstation

Korg's Karma Workstation
by Barry Rudolph

The 62-voice Karma Music Workstation uses the same Hyper Integrated synthesis system as the Triton Music Workstation/Sampler. There are 32Mb of PCM samples and 640 user programs (384 preloaded) with 256 programs and nine drum programs in GM level 2 (General MIDI) in ROM. There are 102 effect algorithms and you can use up to five insert effects, two master effects and three-band EQ all at the same time. Karma has a 16-track sequencer that'll hold 200,000 notes for 200 songs and features Real-time Pattern Play/Recording for playback of a phrase with a single key stroke.

Karma's big difference from the Triton is called Variable Performance modeller. Based on notes and chords played, Karma will automatically generate and manipulate phrases and patterns that are impossible to produce with conventional arpeggiators. Karma has control over about 400 musical elements or parameters that allow the player to interact intuitively and change them in ways that can range from subtle to extreme. A pattern is a collection of these elements called a Generated Effect. The GE controls how note data from the keyboard is developed and used. One Karma pattern is used in Program mode and up to four patterns can be used in a Combination/Sequencer/Song Play mode. The separate patterns can generate independent phrases to play different sounds such as drums, bass, guitar or piano.

The Korg Karma sells for $2,250 MSRP and for much more about it, contact Korg USA at 316 South Service Rd., Melville, NY 11747. Phone them at: 516-333-9100 or FAX to: 516-333-9108 or Web to: www.korg.com

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