The Korg Poly-Six, launched in 1981, is an analog polyphonic synthesizer distinguished by its ability to produce rich, textured sounds with a simple, efficient user interface. This synthesizer is renowned for its 6-voice polyphony and unique features that have made it a favorite among musicians of the time and collectors today.
Virtual KORG PolySix
Korg Polysix: The Classic Analog Polyphonic Synthesizer
Overview of the Korg Polysix
The Korg Polysix, introduced in 1981, is a legendary analog polyphonic synthesizer that became renowned for its rich, warm sound and user-friendly interface. As one of Korg’s early polyphonic synthesizers, the Polysix offered musicians a versatile instrument capable of producing lush pads, punchy basses, and expressive lead sounds.
Key Features of the Korg Polysix
- Synthesis: Analog subtractive synthesis
- Polyphony: 6 voices
- Oscillators: 1 voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) per voice
- Filter: 24dB/octave low-pass filter with resonance
- Envelope: ADSR envelope generator
- LFO: Low-frequency oscillator for modulation
- Memory: 32 programmable patches
- Keyboard: 61-key velocity-sensitive keyboard
- Arpeggiator: Built-in arpeggiator with multiple modes
- Chorus: Onboard analog chorus effect
- Connectivity: CV/Gate inputs for external control
The Development of the Polysix
Design and Innovation
The Korg Polysix was designed to provide musicians with a powerful yet affordable polyphonic synthesizer. Its design focused on simplicity and ease of use, while still offering a wide range of sound-shaping capabilities.
Innovations in the Polysix
- Affordable Polyphony: Offered 6-voice polyphony at a competitive price point
- Onboard Chorus: Built-in analog chorus effect for lush, expansive sounds
- Arpeggiator: Integrated arpeggiator for rhythmic patterns and sequences
Impact on Music Production
Genres and Applications
- Pop and Rock: Widely used in 1980s pop and rock music for its warm, analog sound
- New Wave: Popular among new wave bands for its lush pads and distinctive leads
- Electronic Music: Utilized in early electronic music productions for its rich textures
- Film Scoring: Used for creating atmospheric soundscapes in film and television
The Polysix in Modern Music Production
- Still used by many producers for its unique analog character
- Highly sought after by vintage synth enthusiasts and collectors
- Samples and software emulations of the Polysix are popular in modern productions
Technical Specifications for Audio Enthusiasts
- Architecture: Analog polyphonic synthesizer
- Polyphony: 6 voices
- Oscillators: 1 VCO per voice with sawtooth and pulse waveforms
- Filter: 24dB/octave low-pass filter with resonance
- Envelope: ADSR envelope generator
- LFO: LFO with multiple waveforms for modulation
- Memory: 32 programmable patches
- Connectivity: CV/Gate inputs, audio output
Legacy and Historical Significance
- Helped establish Korg as a major player in the polyphonic synthesizer market
- Influenced the design of subsequent analog and digital synthesizers
- Remains a highly regarded instrument for its unique sound and character
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the Korg Polysix
The Korg Polysix remains a significant instrument in the history of synthesizers. Its warm analog sound, intuitive interface, and innovative features 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 musicians, producers, and collectors. The Polysix’s legacy lives on in modern music production, particularly in genres that draw inspiration from the rich, analog sounds of the 1980s.
