The Korg Poly-800, launched in 1983, is an 8-voice digital polyphonic synthesizer that has marked the history of electronic music with its distinctive sounds and innovative features. Renowned for its ability to create rich and varied sound textures, the Poly-800 has become a must-have instrument in studios and on stage.
Virtual KORG POLY-800
Korg Poly-800: The Affordable Digital Polyphonic Synthesizer
Overview of the Korg Poly-800
The Korg Poly-800, introduced in 1983, was a groundbreaking digital polyphonic synthesizer that brought affordable polyphony to the masses. Known for its distinctive sound and compact design, the Poly-800 became a popular choice for musicians seeking a versatile and budget-friendly synthesizer.
Key Features of the Korg Poly-800
- Synthesis: Digital controlled analog synthesis
- Polyphony: 8 voices
- Oscillators: 2 digitally controlled oscillators (DCOs) per voice
- Filter: 24dB/octave low-pass filter (non-resonant)
- Envelope: ADSR envelope generator
- LFO: Low-frequency oscillator for modulation
- Memory: 64 programmable patches
- Keyboard: 49-key velocity-sensitive keyboard
- Arpeggiator: Built-in arpeggiator with multiple modes
- Connectivity: MIDI In/Out, audio output
The Development of the Poly-800
Design and Innovation
The Korg Poly-800 was designed to bring polyphonic synthesis to a wider audience by offering an affordable and compact instrument. Its innovative use of digitally controlled analog components allowed for stable tuning and programmability while maintaining an analog sound character.
Innovations in the Poly-800
- Affordable Polyphony: Offered 8-voice polyphony at a fraction of the cost of competitors
- Compact Design: Lightweight and portable, ideal for gigging musicians
- Digital Control: Allowed for stable tuning and patch memory
Impact on Music Production
Genres and Applications
- Synthpop: Widely used in 1980s synthpop for its characteristic sound
- New Wave: Popular among new wave bands for its affordability and versatility
- Electronic Music: Used in early electronic music productions
- Home Studios: Favored by home studio owners for its compact size and features
The Poly-800 in Modern Music Production
- Still used by some producers for its unique 80s sound
- Sought after by vintage synth enthusiasts and collectors
- Samples and patches from the Poly-800 are used in modern productions for retro flavor
Technical Specifications for Audio Enthusiasts
- Architecture: Digital controlled analog synthesizer
- Polyphony: 8 voices
- Oscillators: 2 DCOs per voice with sawtooth and square waveforms
- Filter: 24dB/octave low-pass filter (non-resonant)
- Envelope: ADSR envelope generator
- LFO: LFO for modulation
- Memory: 64 programmable patches
- Connectivity: MIDI In/Out, audio output
Legacy and Historical Significance
- Helped democratize polyphonic synthesis by offering an affordable option
- Influenced the design of subsequent budget-friendly synthesizers
- Remains a sought-after instrument for its unique sound and historical importance
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the Korg Poly-800
The Korg Poly-800 remains a significant instrument in the history of synthesizers. Its innovative design, affordable price point, and distinctive sound made it a popular choice for musicians in the 1980s. Today, its unique character and historical importance continue to make it a sought-after instrument among vintage synth enthusiasts and collectors. The Poly-800’s legacy lives on in modern music production, particularly in genres that draw inspiration from 80s synthpop and new wave.