Korg Volca Modular Micro Modular Synthesizer

more accessible and understandable than ever beforeThe Korg Volca Modular is a semi-modular analogue synthesizer that makes modular synthesis more accessible than ever before. Based around a "West Coast" style that deviates from traditional synthesis, and featuring eight modules, 50 patch points, a 16-step sequencer with randomise, micro tuning and more into a familiar volca chassis.

Creating new sounds that don’t exist in the outside world is a never-ending dream which has continued since the beginning of electronic musical instruments. This dream has evolved and expanded throughout the development of new and unique music production devices. The popularity of modular synthesizers around the world has generated new excitement and interest in the so-called "West Coast style" of synthesis that deviates from traditional synthesis norms.

The compact design of this Volca synth features eight modules and 50 patch points. While learning the basics of a modular synth, you can use popular features of the Volca synthesizer line to control a unique and different flavor of analogue sounds.

The Volca Modular also comes with a diverse range of music software from Izotope including “Ozone Elements” which lets you not only create songs but also master them using AI, “Skoove” which will help you improve your keyboard playing skills, “Reason Lite” DAW software, as well as software synths from Korg and other brands.

At A Glance • Compact semi-modular analogue synthesizer
• CV input and sync I/O for connecting to modular synths, Electribes, Volcas, and more
• Advanced 16-step sequencer with multiple play modes and randomization
• Voice architecture: 2 VCO (triangle), 2 EG, 2 LPG, digital effect
• 50 patch points and 20 included patch cables

Eight ModulesThis semi-modular synthesizer is made up of of independent analogue synth modules, digital effects, and a sequencer. Each of the modules has been carefully selected for its stand-alone completeness. The modules are internally connected so that sound can be produced even before connecting the included pin cables, and the routing is shown by white lines on the panel. Module connections via a pin cable take priority over the internal connections, bypassing them.

instantly recognizableAnalogue synthesizers where a simple oscillator such as a saw wave or square wave is modified by a filter are referred to as "East Coast style" because of their origin from well-known American manufacturers. Synths of this style, as exemplified by the MS-20, have continued to evolve toward a goal of being used in many mainstream musical genres, thus being equipped with a keyboard for performance. Their sounds are known for sharp filters and rich presence, and can be heard in many well-known songs.

Synthesizers of the "West Coast style" evolved in a uniquely different direction from such musical developments. Pursuing the freedom that is inherent to electronic musical instruments, these were based on oscillators such as FM modulation which generated numerous overtones, and used random and complex control signals and low-pass gate circuits to vary tonal character and volume, so that slight movement of a knob might dramatically transform the sound. While their potential was acknowledged, the resulting sound and its changes were difficult to predict, causing these synths to be used in a more experimental capacity.

For these reasons, hardware products of this style have been few in number. Although, in recent years have seen the popularity of modular synths such as Eurorack, as well as DAW plugin instruments that resurrect classic bygone synths of the past. This world-wide movement toward embracing interesting sounds has received renewed attention, spurring a new look at the sounds of this style.

Starting from analogue, and freely taking in all elements including FM and PCM, the Volca series has also focused on this trend. This distinctive "West Coast style" sound has now been added to the Korg Volca series.

Universally CompatibleVolca Modular’s modules are connected via the included pin cables, enabling a diverse range of combinations. The unit's compact chassis provides 50 patch points. Inputs and outputs are colour-coded for recognition at a glance, and the signals are also marked by symbols to indicate audio, control, gate or trigger. Normally, each signal is connected according to its use, but on the Volca Modular, signal levels are universally compatible between modules, allowing hidden possibilities to arise from patching that defies common sense. Twenty pin cables are included, along with a reference sheet that explains each patch point and providing basic examples of patching.

Automated ParametersWhile the Volca Modular is a semi-modular synth, it is equipped with a full-fledged 16-step sequencer providing a wide range of functions, letting you enjoy automatic performance even when used stand-alone. Using the 16 buttons familiar from the Volca series, you can perform step input or use the buttons as a keyboard for realtime recording. The pattern chaining function plays back multiple sequence patterns in succession, allowing you to connect up to 16 sequences with up to 32, 64, or even 256 steps to create large-scale development.

The motion sequence function records knob movements, allowing you to add time-varying change to the sound. You can create loops, or use this function live for strikingly original performances. Up to 16 sequence patterns and sounds can be saved in the unit. Also provided is an active step function which lets you play back while skipping the steps you specify. You can skip the latter half to produce a short loop, use an alternate time signature to create polyrhythms, and evolve sequence patterns in real time to create a dynamic performance.

The sequencer of the Volca Modular lets you specify randomisation for notes, active steps, and micro tuning. Irregular phrases, rhythms, and scaling that would be unlikely to come to mind can be generated by applying randomness, letting the Volca be a source of unknown ideas. Two new sequence modes have been added: bounce sequence mode which makes a round trip through the steps, and stochastic sequence mode which gradually proceeds while randomly moving forward and backward. Playing back a recorded sequence in a different form can add dramatic changes to your song or performance.