Review

Now the Kross 2 raises the bar with more power, more presets (1075), more polyphony (120 voices), a new sampling engine, sample trigger pads, and more. Still amazingly affordable, the Kross 2 61 packs 61 synth-action keys, a boatload of class-leading sounds, and a bevy of intuitive and powerful production tools into a svelte, eye-catching chassis that weighs in at under 10 pounds. It will even run on six AA batteries, for impromptu busking in the park. With a mic input, a built-in audio recorder, a 16-track MIDI sequencer, drum track, arpeggiator, and Electribe-derived step sequencer, the Korg Kross 2 61 will bring your music to life.

Korg Kross 2 61 Synth Workstation Features:

• Great-feeling 61-key synth-action keybed
• Pro-quality EDS-i sound engine built-in, with a total of seven effects available simultaneously
• 1075 killer presets, including amazing piano, EP, and drum patches
• 120 voices of polyphony eliminates note stealing
• Many sounds utilize twice as much PCM memory as previous instruments
• Powerful sampling engine and sample trigger pads
• Ideal for a broad range of musical styles
• Extremely lightweight (under 10 pounds); may be powered by 6 AA batteries
• Ideal for a broad range of musical styles
• Sound Selector makes it easy to find the sound you're looking for
• Favorites function lets you register 64 sounds or audio songs for one-touch access during gigs
• External input jacks let you connect a mic or external audio source
• Quick Layer/Split function for on-the-fly versatility
• Stereo audio recorder allows you to record and overdub your performances and vocals
• Step sequencer inherited from the Electribe
• Onboard 16-track MIDI sequencer, drum track, and arpeggiator
• Connects to your computer via USB for plug-in integration with your favorite DAW
• Stylishly distinctive red and black two-tone design looks great onstage
• Kross 2 Editor and Plug-In Editor may be downloaded from the Korg website

Tech Specs

• Type:Synthesizer Workstation
• Sound Engine Type(s):EDS-i
• Number of Keys:61
• Type of Keys:Synth, Velocity Sensitive
• Other Controllers:Pitchbend, Mod wheel
• Pads:16 x pads (8 banks)
• Polyphony:120 Notes
• Number of Presets:1075
• Number of Effects:134
• Arpeggiator:Yes
• Audio Recording:16-bit/48kHz, WAV file, stereo
• Audio Playback:Playback from SD card
• Sequencer:16-track MIDI, 64 step, 128 songs, 16 user template songs
• Memory:128MB expansion PCM memory
• Storage:SD/SDHC card slot
• Audio Inputs:1 x 1/4" (mic), 1 x 1/8" (line)
• Audio Outputs:2 x 1/4" (line out), 1 x 1/8" (headphones)
• USB:1 x Type B
• MIDI I/O:In/Out
• Pedal Inputs:1 x 1/4" (damper), 1 x 1/4" (assignable switch), 1 x 1/4" (assignable pedal)
• Expansion:Support for future library releases
• Software:Kross2 Editor, Plug-in Editor
• Power Supply:9V DC power supply / 6 x AA batteries
• Height:3.46"
• Width:36.81"
• Depth:10.59"
• Weight:8.38 lbs.