Korg phase8 – Acoustic Synthesizer

The Korg phase8 is an eight-voice acoustic synthesizer that blends physically vibrating sound sources with precise electronic control. Built around KORG’s innovative Acoustic Synthesis technology, phase8 produces sound through real steel resonators, shaped by envelopes, sequencing, analogue wavefolding, and pitch-dependent modulation. The result is an organic, tactile instrument that feels alive and reacts to touch, movement, and the surrounding acoustic environment—available at Soundium.

Key Features

• Acoustic Synthesis engine: Uses physically vibrating steel resonators combined with electronic control for organic, responsive sound
• 8 independent electromechanical voices: Each voice features its own steel resonator for true polyphonic acoustic synthesis
• Swappable, tunable resonators: Includes 13 chromatically tuned steel resonators, with 8 installed at a time
• Polymetric rhythm sequencer: Step-based or unquantized live recording with per-voice step skipping
• Advanced modulation modes: Tremolo and two audio-rate, pitch-dependent modulation types with optional harmonic quantisation
• Hands-on physical interaction: Touch, pluck, tap, or modify resonators with objects for evolving textures

Customer Benefits

phase8 offers a radically different synthesis experience by merging the physical behavior of acoustic instruments with the flexibility of electronic control. Its steel resonators generate rich, tactile tones that evolve naturally, while sequencing, automation, and modulation provide modern workflow depth. Whether used for percussive rhythms, evolving drones, or experimental textures, phase8 rewards hands-on exploration and creative risk-taking.

Quick Specs

• Synthesis type: Acoustic Synthesis (electromechanical)
• Polyphony: 8 voices
• Resonators: Swappable steel resonators (13 included)
• Sequencer: Polymetric, step or live recording, 8 memory slots
• Audio output: 3.5 mm line out, headphone out
• Connectivity: MIDI TRS-A, USB-C (USB-MIDI), Sync In/Out, CV In
• Power: DC 12 V adapter
• Power consumption: 4.8 W
• Dimensions (W × D × H): 23.1 × 23.65 × 4.6 cm
• Weight: 1.71 kg

What’s in the Box

• Korg phase8 acoustic synthesizer
• AC power adaptor
• 5 additional steel resonators
• Hex key
• Quick start guide
• Precautions sheet

Use Cases / Ideal For

Ideal for experimental electronic music, sound design, rhythmic composition, ambient textures, and artists seeking tactile, physically responsive instruments that go beyond traditional analogue or digital synthesis.

Compatibility

Compatible with MIDI and USB-MIDI controllers, modular and semi-modular systems via CV, and external hardware or software setups through Sync and MIDI connectivity.

Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:

• Truly unique acoustic–electronic synthesis approach
• Highly tactile and expressive sound generation
• Swappable resonators allow deep customisation
• Flexible sequencing and automation capabilities

⚠️ Cons:

• Unconventional workflow may require learning time
• Specialised sound character may not suit traditional synthesis needs

The Korg phase8 is a forward-thinking instrument that blurs the boundary between physical sound and electronic control, offering a deeply expressive and experimental approach to synthesis—available at Soundium.