A lot of people in these comments are saying it sounds thin, but this isn’t analog subtractive, my friends. And that depends on what wavetable and sample you’re using and how you process it down the signal chain. This is the harsh digital winter of wavetable. And I effing love it. This thing has so much depth and potential. You can use a sawtooth wavetable if you really must emulate an analog subtractive synth with it. But that’s not what this is about. The interface looks great, the screen looks helpful. This is truly going to be a fantastic techno texture and lead generating machine!
Agreed, while I do own an MS20, moog and admittedly a Monopoly Clone. I could see just running this through one of my API/NEVE. Then just dumping my own sounds, and even full live performance songs to it. Probably could produce strings, have great stereo effects. Make entire drum patches for recording and live playbacks. I think having 5 other analog synths in the mix. A digital synth is a great contrast. May some thing shrill on its own. But in a mix and live performance. This could shine very much, and spawn creativity.
Thank you very muc for this demo! It is incredible, how fast you are able to access all the basic and also some of the advanced features of this fairly complex machine!
Nice job, Bo. I really like this instrument. Every synthesis type has a superpower. IMO, wavetable synthesis has no peer at clean sounds with pure harmonics (organ-like sounds, shimmery pads, glassy bells). But when wavetable synths (like this one and the Waldorf Blofeld) offer high-quality filters and drive, they can also sound remarkably warm and analog-like when the selected wavetable is a traditional waveform. All in all, the Korg Modwave seems to possibly be the most flexible & usable "sound laboratory" on the market. Maybe this is the "knobby Blofeld" I've been waiting for!
I love the concept and will be buying it in a year or so. My rule with anything digital is to wait a year. I'm waiting for the new dreadbox 6 voice! Picked up a lot of gear thanks to your demos. Thank you
Korg is on a roll with this form factor. Great options. I wonder how much new music we’ll hear in the next 6 months that is just the factory presets arranged to a template track.
Well that one could keep you busy for a long time it seems like. Lots to explore. Also sounds like it would sit nice in a mix. The timbres are pretty balanced on what I've heard here.
Jeg er så glad for at du laver disse reviews bo, du er god til at forklare enkelt og gør en stor forskel for os nye og gamle lyd nørder 🎉😊
2 ปีที่แล้ว +17
I'm really wondering how does its sound compares to Hydrasynth (which I find bland) update: returned the Hydrasynth and got a Modwave, which is really amazing and I find its sound much better than the Hydra
The Hydrasynth to me always seemed like it was designed exclusively for maximum modulation with zero attention to how it sounds. It sounds terrible to me... I was hoping it was going to replace the Virus TI but it just sounded so bad. The modwave actually sounds pretty decent, still no Virus to my ears though.
Modwave after trying the demo captured my sound-design imagination second only to Opsix. For the very different technical reasons. I got VST for Modwave and imho at discount price the value is amazing. Opsix I wanted to get the synth even though "Native" version I found perfectly usable and already fun to play. Nothing beats real deal faders...
Wow, it seems to have the characteristics of two very different Synths, 1. EDM dance music and 2. Ambient bleeps and bloops like a modular. Very interesting, loving the high knob count ! Thank you for the video !
Just ordered one :) Your video was the last one I watched before purchasing, and by far the most helpful in aiding my decision. Totally used your affilliate link
It seems a lot like a more accessible version of the Wavestate, with similar capabilities but more UI emphasis on traditional synthesis and performability. It's like people told Korg the Wavestate is too hard, so they made the Modwave. Seems like an upgrade overall, for all but the most technical of soundscape creators.
My general impression is that Modwave is more for sound design, modulations and evolving sounds, while the Wavestate is more for rhythms, loops and generative music.
I've been looking forward to this video, Bo. It looks like a complex beast but it sounds great. Sonically, I bet the variety is endless too. I think I'd take this over the Opsix and Wavestate if I decide to go digital for my next synth.
So, what do you think of the Modwave? Let me know! CHECK OUT KORG MODWAVE EU: thmn.to/thoprod/511545?offid=1&affid=623 US: bit.ly/korgModwavePC US: imp.i114863.net/vnynOy Using my affiliate links that support the channel regardless of what you buy
It sounds like a workhorse for modern Industrial , EBM , Synthwave , and where I’m sure pop will go in a few years ....when those producers catch up . I wanted to hate it because of the obvious ASM influence in the OSC architecture ( since ASM are small cool boutique vs. giant Korg ) but damn I think I’m going to have to have one . I’m not ever impressed with presets so they are irrelevant but this is a programmers synth for sure and it hints at what it’s capable of and it seams capable of being the center piece of a good forward looking set up IMHO .
Great video, Bo! This looks like the kind of synth we would have wished for when we were kids. Yet, back then we wouldn’t have had the cash to buy it if it would have existed. I am grateful for the simple fact that now I’m at an age where I can simply say, “Hell yeah! Ship me one, today!” However, compared to the Wavestate, it sounds scary... Hope the learning curve won’t kill me 😁 Love and light from Khao Lak, Thailand 🇹🇭 ❤️☀️🏖🌴🥥🐘🌈
At last a synth that has more dynamic modulation options in an affordable price range. Also the fact that you can add in your own samples and use them is great. I, for one like all the modulation options and the sounds are the kind I like. BTW the bouncing ball kinda reminded me of the Vector Synth...
Nothing wrong with presets. If they spark an idea it's always cool by me. I own the Korg Wavestate and absolutely love it. Its a progressive learning experience inspired by the presets. This Korg Modwave will be the same. I'll have mine in August ... I can tell from your fun demo it will compliment well. This is the future of synthesis 👍
It was a choice between waiting for the ModWave and just getting the Hydra. I already have a WaveState, and the ModWave sounds really good, but I pre-emptively went for the Hydra as it suited my needs for sound design and would complement well imo with the State. To each their own I guess. But I definitely still want a Korg Opsix to round out my setup.
Honestly, if you have a Hydrasynth and a Wavestate, the ModWave seems like a lot of overlap. I've a Hydra keyboard and love it; the poly aftertouch is great, but I also have some other things that are either based on wavetable synthesis, or do it well for some reason. Personally, I'd like one just for the X/Y pad. I really hope Korg starts baking that into some of their future products.
I got one of thsse and I love it. It is incredibly deep but takes a bit of time to get your head around. The only thing I really wish was that the lfos could go into audio rates a bit more. You can get them to go a bit higher with the mod processors. Also for those who think this thing sounds thin they should try the trimmer in the filter section as well on the mod sections that change the db and filters on the oscillators going into the filters. Also the fx section is very powerful to fatten things up.
Another complex menu diving synth. Sounds ok but a steep learning curve for most..It has lots of competition so pick yours carefully. Good vid, thanks Bo..
The other synths Korg makes in this form factor and general price range have more appeal to me, but I'm sure there will be people who think the opposite. (And having a large product range with something for everyone is very much Korg's thing.)
No idea why they didn’t just do a desktop version AND a 61 key version out of the gate. These synths for people with T. rex arms seems like a terribly awkward compromise. Too small for “players” and too large to use as a module.
I have never been a big Korg fan but considering the price and the awesome flexibility and sounds the Modwawe is among the most exciting synths at the moment. I´m definitely going to invest in one soon (and have a lots of time to learn how it works with a nice bottle of wine … within reach😄) I can understand that for such a small synth a big screen is not possible but when one thinks about all the hands on controls and the depth of the synth engine a bigger screen would be very good. Would be amazing if it was a rack synth (why are there not more rack versions of synths?).
Racks have definitely gone out of fashion. Personally I don't look back on the era of MIDI madness with nostalgia. "Multitimbral" used to be top of my feature checklist 30 years ago but these days it's not even on the list! 😀
I've got several rack synths, they're not great for user interfaces. Rack is better for set and forget and occasional tweaks, like studio compressors and audio interfaces. They are just too upright and it becomes tiring very quickly sitting or standing at one to work (been there, done it for a career!). I think that's the reason many now offer it as an option for their desktop modules with bolt on ears for the few who want them, rather than making a specific model.
@@2112jonr yep. I really grew to hate the whole process of scrolling through junk patches on a little LCD for something that was close and then menu diving to try to make it actually sound good. It killed my inspiration every time.
Great review. I plan to buy this synth. All the korg products are great. Difficult to choose which is right for you personally. But I am going for this one.
This sounds like a very affordable option to the very pricey Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave new desk top module or keyboard. Sure the 3rd Wave has analog filters, PPG and Prophet VS wave tables and virtual analog osc, but for 5X the price. The new Modwave MK2 Desktop could cover this territory coming out soon is what we are waiting for.
Right away I see the X-Y pad, like the Roland V-Synth. The most expressive way to modulate a patch, good sign so far... @1:58 wow, sounds a lot like v-synth @2:45 and @8:00 - Kronos/Karma type rhythms going on here.. nice .. if it had a 61- or 76-key version I would consider it. I am sad at the small sizes offered lately by vendors. Not all of us want DJ-table sized mini gear. I hate having to hit octave-shift keys or do multiple takes because the keyboard is too small.
The price is high for someone like me that doesnt know a lot of sound design and classic synth usage, but my god does this thing look fun. I think the Microfreak might still be the only reasonable middle ground for me, but I can see anyone into sound design or straight up tencho being drawn to this 😅
The Modwave Native software has just been updated to have all the features of the modwave and much more as a standalone app and VST. The free demo is unlimited in features and just has a 20 min time limit. Though, the VST seems to reset the 20 min timer every time you hide the window... so....
Just bought a EX 8000, at the core this does seem like a great update, just wish it didn't have so much of the cheesy groovebox vibe shoved in with that, I hear a transwave vibe there too. Looks like from a wave table perspective this has tons of potential. Will be interesting to see what people do with this synth.
Came here because I had an offer to trade for one, and I'm thinking 'no'. This review concludes by asking us to say if we are interested or not, and the reason why, so: 1. At one point, the reviewer says something like "If this sound doesn't do it for you ..." -- and for me, it didn't. Nothing wrong, just didn't get that must-have feeling. For those who do, I'm sure he's right. For me, a lot of it seemed to be achieving very similar musical effects, the way all jazz sounds alike to those who don't much care for it. 2. This sounds GREAT for making many different kinds of noises -- several of which sound like something from the Hydrasynth, which I already have, and which features polyphonic aftertouch -- and that DOES appeal to me. 3. I hear a lot of 'automatic' sounds: stuff that's playable with a finger or two on the keys, and more about turning knobs. That's a great feature, but not really a part of music I play, which suggests this was not made for someone like me. Conclusion: seems made for those very interested in sonic sculpting, as opposed to creating songs. This is also somewhat true of the Hydrasynth, which leans more to players by having more keys (and the poly AT). Where this seems more focused on the sonic adjustments, hence so many knobs. Of course, since this video was made, ASM have made a smaller Hydra Explorer, which may offer more competition to the ModWave (price-wise) but still not as knobby.
I used to have a load of fun with the Korg App on my 1st Gen iPad until it was made redundant and I decided not to buy another Apple product. I just happened to stumble across this video and, to be honest, I'm sold. I've been listening to your audio via my Bose Noise Canceling Headphones and it sounds superb. Great video, and thanks for the demo.
So on a scale of 1 through 10 ( 10 being the ultimate, 1 being don’t waste your money ) where would you rate it? To me , it sounds amazing (I’d give it a 9 without even using it yet) thanks for the demo.
As I've gotten older, I've come to appreciate clever-clever synth sounds less - OMG am I turning into a flipping purist!!!?? Help!! I used to love the old wavestation etc type sounds in my 'yoof'. I did the whole Omnisphere thing for a while even. So, anyway, whilst I realise it can do restrained, I just feel that synths with so much going on are creativity killers for me personally. I would end up endlessly fiddling with no musical output. It's really really good obviously, but I'm getting so much out of what I have right now (couple of elektron boxes and a novation summit) - all that's more than enough for me. I still like the minilogue and the opsix deffo interests me. Just my personal take but thanks for the review :)
I hear ya. I used to love complex synth. but now I just feel like it's a buzzkill. You ended up fiddling with so many controls and you could easily make something that's completely unusable.
@@djrandomjavabass absolutely. I realised I've bought way more synths than made tracks with them. But I do love em. I made far more songs with my stringed instruments (tenor guitar and mandolin) because they have a way of limiting you. I like those limitations. Looking for unexpected nuances and textures without getting too lost. So I tend to program quite simple and subtle tones; and all singing and dancing ones bore me nowadays.
I agree with you. With time comes more appreciation for what actually serves the purpose and helps us to be creative instead of leading us away from it. Good instrument feels like a companion. Modwave, with all its sophistication and gizmos, feels more like a distraction, and Korg "forgot" about keyboard aftertouch, again. Sure, we can swipe that Kaos gizmo, but again, it feels more like a distraction.
@@BlisterHiker Yep. Perhaps the fact that they are doing all these rehashes is good, but did market research really agree upfront? Guess they are reusing the same keybed and cutting costs - but yer right, everyone wants AT and yet Korg aren't into it. Weird. All of these minilogue chassis products need a module version - not like they don't have that chassis already available
I program on a roland mc303 then send the midi out to any synth that sounds good but considering i can use one groovebox considerd the worst groovebox ever made has the best build quality than any new korg. The plastic korgs are really sad to see
I think the question should be: Do you want an FM synth? The opsix will be different and modwave will feel but maybe not sound a bit more similar to the wavestate workflow. So if you want a similar user experience modwave is easier
I so appreciate your videos. I’m new to synths and I am looking to purchase my first one. At this point, I am between the Minilogue xd and the modwave. Can you give some direction as to the better choice would be for creating ambient music? Thank you for all that you continue to do!🙏🏻
For you I suggest the Minilogue XD - However ambient music can be achieved with the simplest of synths. You need to know and get the feel of synthesizer sounds first. How to design sounds. You then collect and disect your favorite ambient music, replay some of the motifs, and try out how different effects change the sound. Before you buy, some music stores allow you to hire (ie try out) a synthesizer and some additional equipment like effects. That way it doesn't cost you an arm and a leg before you settle for a particular setup. I had great fun for almost 14 years, just using a used Roland SH-101 and an old effectsmodule with 8 different modes. Had this setup so I could play it instantly, just power it up and ready to play. Since selling that, I now own 4 polyfonic synths but create essentially the same music. Having more sounds instantly available, makes it easier to create and record music, on the fly. If you do go for the Korg Modwave, you're most likely to be overwhelmed, become unsatisfied and even put off to play a synthesizer ever again. Take your time to enjoy the learning process and the satisfaction of discovering your own style. Wishing you all the best!
@@Hyper5nic How kind of you to take the time to be so specific. Thank you so much. Yes, after more research, I agree with you about the Modwave. In fact, you got me thinking more, and perhaps the Minilogue will be even a better choice, especially because I have some nice guitar pedals I can connect to the Minilogue. Thank you again…you’ve been a great help.💗
I still need to get my hand on the wavestate.. I feel like having a State and doing your mods with external pedal being that I already invested over 2000 in effects alone.. this would be a good tool for someone with limited gear or space. ... or if korg would combine both the wavestate and wavemod into something like an Alesis ION.. that would be dope
im really curious what kind of samples are in it. im between this one and the wavestate and i really like the selection of pianos, strings, etc. i wonder if modwave has the same.
A lot of people in these comments are saying it sounds thin, but this isn’t analog subtractive, my friends. And that depends on what wavetable and sample you’re using and how you process it down the signal chain. This is the harsh digital winter of wavetable. And I effing love it. This thing has so much depth and potential. You can use a sawtooth wavetable if you really must emulate an analog subtractive synth with it. But that’s not what this is about. The interface looks great, the screen looks helpful. This is truly going to be a fantastic techno texture and lead generating machine!
Okay, but can say that in English now?
Agreed, while I do own an MS20, moog and admittedly a Monopoly Clone. I could see just running this through one of my API/NEVE. Then just dumping my own sounds, and even full live performance songs to it. Probably could produce strings, have great stereo effects. Make entire drum patches for recording and live playbacks. I think having 5 other analog synths in the mix. A digital synth is a great contrast. May some thing shrill on its own. But in a mix and live performance. This could shine very much, and spawn creativity.
Wavetable can sound good(digitakt por example) but personally this modwave sounds like an old plugin.
@@onderbox186 that was my thought as well. I wasn't a fan of the sound. It was lacking.
Not everything needs to sound analog. This sounds wonderful.
Please, make a Wavestate vs Modwave video!!
Yes please!
This is essentially the question we are all asking. I cannot purchase both :(
I'd sell my Wavestate for this.
Loopop has one
@@InnerVisions68 loopop can have one, but it's not a Bobeats one
I do love the Korg sounds. They have a certain quality that is unmistakable.
Wavestation, Modwave, and opsix seem like a great trio that could be very inspiring.
which one to choose if needed to choose?
@@mysticcity312 op6
Thank you very muc for this demo! It is incredible, how fast you are able to access all the basic and also some of the advanced features of this fairly complex machine!
I've been waiting for this video for AGES! Korg announced this synth a while back now and I've been so excited to see more, thanks for doing a demo!
Wavestate vs. Modwave - aaargh! This does look like a lot of fun and the sounds I’ve heard so far are right up my alley…
Both.
"Get both!" - Your troubled G.A.S. mind trying to rationalize spending $$
Modwave
Your shirt describes the last year of my life.
he's an honest advertiser and influencer
I want this TShirt....is the store up?
😂🍻 same
and mine.. and probably at least one other person on this channel
Unfortunately true for me too. Anyone know where I can get a Modwave for a good price ???
Omfg! I love my Wavestate but I can see I really want / need this too! Awsome!
Nice job, Bo. I really like this instrument. Every synthesis type has a superpower. IMO, wavetable synthesis has no peer at clean sounds with pure harmonics (organ-like sounds, shimmery pads, glassy bells). But when wavetable synths (like this one and the Waldorf Blofeld) offer high-quality filters and drive, they can also sound remarkably warm and analog-like when the selected wavetable is a traditional waveform. All in all, the Korg Modwave seems to possibly be the most flexible & usable "sound laboratory" on the market. Maybe this is the "knobby Blofeld" I've been waiting for!
I’m extremely surprised that no one has made a Modwave vs Blofeld video… it’s been 2 years…
Been to work and just got in and see that I’ve got a great video to watch!! Thanks for making it and looking forward to watching it in full👍👍
I like this a lot and this is a synth for me
I love the concept and will be buying it in a year or so. My rule with anything digital is to wait a year. I'm waiting for the new dreadbox 6 voice! Picked up a lot of gear thanks to your demos. Thank you
it's been a year; did you buy one?
Korg is on a roll with this form factor. Great options. I wonder how much new music we’ll hear in the next 6 months that is just the factory presets arranged to a template track.
Well that one could keep you busy for a long time it seems like. Lots to explore. Also sounds like it would sit nice in a mix. The timbres are pretty balanced on what I've heard here.
Jeg er så glad for at du laver disse reviews bo, du er god til at forklare enkelt og gør en stor forskel for os nye og gamle lyd nørder 🎉😊
I'm really wondering how does its sound compares to Hydrasynth (which I find bland)
update: returned the Hydrasynth and got a Modwave, which is really amazing and I find its sound much better than the Hydra
@@Aetila You mad bro..
The Hydrasynth to me always seemed like it was designed exclusively for maximum modulation with zero attention to how it sounds. It sounds terrible to me... I was hoping it was going to replace the Virus TI but it just sounded so bad. The modwave actually sounds pretty decent, still no Virus to my ears though.
great video bo!
Modwave after trying the demo captured my sound-design imagination second only to Opsix. For the very different technical reasons. I got VST for Modwave and imho at discount price the value is amazing. Opsix I wanted to get the synth even though "Native" version I found perfectly usable and already fun to play. Nothing beats real deal faders...
If they bring out a 61-key version, it'll be top of my list. Seems a lot more accessible than the Wavestate.
KORG is coming back strong
Wow, it seems to have the characteristics of two very different Synths,
1. EDM dance music and
2. Ambient bleeps and bloops like a modular.
Very interesting, loving the high knob count !
Thank you for the video !
This sounds 4000 times better than a analog synth #3333. Great video!
Just ordered one :) Your video was the last one I watched before purchasing, and by far the most helpful in aiding my decision. Totally used your affilliate link
Hope you have fun with it and glad my video could be helpful!
It seems a lot like a more accessible version of the Wavestate, with similar capabilities but more UI emphasis on traditional synthesis and performability. It's like people told Korg the Wavestate is too hard, so they made the Modwave. Seems like an upgrade overall, for all but the most technical of soundscape creators.
Really no. If Wavestate seems hard to you, this thing will be too.
@@eusantis yeah definitely
My general impression is that Modwave is more for sound design, modulations and evolving sounds, while the Wavestate is more for rhythms, loops and generative music.
Tremendous sounds coming out of that!
Like a 90s mp3 player.
I've been looking forward to this video, Bo. It looks like a complex beast but it sounds great. Sonically, I bet the variety is endless too. I think I'd take this over the Opsix and Wavestate if I decide to go digital for my next synth.
Been looking for this comment whole day
Forget this thin sound gear. The wavestate is the best.
I have spent months on the endless stuff on Wavestate and here it's another sibling
I watched a fourth of your video then ordered a Modwave today. Won't get it til October but at least there are more videos to watch.
Lots of knobs. I want it. Thanks. 😋
So, what do you think of the Modwave? Let me know!
CHECK OUT KORG MODWAVE
EU: thmn.to/thoprod/511545?offid=1&affid=623
US: bit.ly/korgModwavePC
US: imp.i114863.net/vnynOy
Using my affiliate links that support the channel regardless of what you buy
It sounds like a workhorse for modern Industrial , EBM , Synthwave , and where I’m sure pop will go in a few years ....when those producers catch up . I wanted to hate it because of the obvious ASM influence in the OSC architecture ( since ASM are small cool boutique vs. giant Korg ) but damn I think I’m going to have to have one . I’m not ever impressed with presets so they are irrelevant but this is a programmers synth for sure and it hints at what it’s capable of and it seams capable of being the center piece of a good forward looking set up IMHO .
This leaves me wondering who exactly this is for. Seems they just threw everything in a box and said let's see what happens.
Great video, Bo! This looks like the kind of synth we would have wished for when we were kids. Yet, back then we wouldn’t have had the cash to buy it if it would have existed. I am grateful for the simple fact that now I’m at an age where I can simply say, “Hell yeah! Ship me one, today!” However, compared to the Wavestate, it sounds scary... Hope the learning curve won’t kill me 😁 Love and light from Khao Lak, Thailand 🇹🇭 ❤️☀️🏖🌴🥥🐘🌈
At last a synth that has more dynamic modulation options in an affordable price range. Also the fact that you can add in your own samples and use them is great. I, for one like all the modulation options and the sounds are the kind I like. BTW the bouncing ball kinda reminded me of the Vector Synth...
Great job! I really think I like the looks of this. Kaoss pad is a hook! Can you run audio thru and use kaoss pad fx?
Phenomenal. I want one!
I was thinking of buying a Korg Minilogue XD, but after seeing this demo, I think I'll order one of these instead! It's got amazing sounds.
Get both 🎉
Its powerful, but the build quality isn't great, especially the keys.
Sounds amazing! i really love it 👍
That beat at 2 min is fire! Love it! Sounds like a great synth! :)
This Synth is amazing for that Price! I ordered one!
Nothing wrong with presets. If they spark an idea it's always cool by me.
I own the Korg Wavestate and absolutely love it. Its a progressive learning experience inspired by the presets.
This Korg Modwave will be the same.
I'll have mine in August ... I can tell from your fun demo it will compliment well.
This is the future of synthesis 👍
And something NEW
It was a choice between waiting for the ModWave and just getting the Hydra. I already have a WaveState, and the ModWave sounds really good, but I pre-emptively went for the Hydra as it suited my needs for sound design and would complement well imo with the State. To each their own I guess. But I definitely still want a Korg Opsix to round out my setup.
You can't go wrong with a Hydra, it's a Beast !
Also my dream Synth...SIGH
Honestly, if you have a Hydrasynth and a Wavestate, the ModWave seems like a lot of overlap. I've a Hydra keyboard and love it; the poly aftertouch is great, but I also have some other things that are either based on wavetable synthesis, or do it well for some reason. Personally, I'd like one just for the X/Y pad. I really hope Korg starts baking that into some of their future products.
This looks like even better than Hydra. Sample engine, importable wavetables, 32 voice, two layers, kaoss pad, motion sequencing..
@@LukezyM Yewah I miss voices on the Hydra. No long release pad chords.
I got one of thsse and I love it. It is incredibly deep but takes a bit of time to get your head around. The only thing I really wish was that the lfos could go into audio rates a bit more. You can get them to go a bit higher with the mod processors. Also for those who think this thing sounds thin they should try the trimmer in the filter section as well on the mod sections that change the db and filters on the oscillators going into the filters. Also the fx section is very powerful to fatten things up.
Great demo Bo, thumb up!
Another complex menu diving synth. Sounds ok but a steep learning curve for most..It has lots of competition so pick yours carefully. Good vid, thanks Bo..
Korg’s synthesizer have a great workflow from what I did with the Opsix . Menu but intuitive ones
The other synths Korg makes in this form factor and general price range have more appeal to me, but I'm sure there will be people who think the opposite. (And having a large product range with something for everyone is very much Korg's thing.)
Yeah...I have the Wavestate and the Minilogue XD. That'll do it for me. Can't see getting this as well.
Definitely my next synth!
Il va être bientôt dans mon studio à la rentrée de Septembre !
Man that pad you made sounds sick 🥶
Omfg Korg! Wavestate, Opsix, and now Modwave.... Korg is killing it, but can we get a full size synth or desktop version of these..?
I agree. more desktop versions!
No idea why they didn’t just do a desktop version AND a 61 key version out of the gate. These synths for people with T. rex arms seems like a terribly awkward compromise. Too small for “players” and too large to use as a module.
@@EverettDudgeon138 ..spits coffee on screen. LMAO
Great Synth, I want one!
Now I see, the «d and w» on modwave are blue highlighted. I had the DW-8000 many years ago.
I had the DW 8000 and it was no comparison to this thing IMO
I have never been a big Korg fan but considering the price and the awesome flexibility and sounds the Modwawe is among the most exciting synths at the moment. I´m definitely going to invest in one soon (and have a lots of time to learn how it works with a nice bottle of wine … within reach😄) I can understand that for such a small synth a big screen is not possible but when one thinks about all the hands on controls and the depth of the synth engine a bigger screen would be very good. Would be amazing if it was a rack synth (why are there not more rack versions of synths?).
Bottle?Bottles!:-)
Racks have definitely gone out of fashion. Personally I don't look back on the era of MIDI madness with nostalgia. "Multitimbral" used to be top of my feature checklist 30 years ago but these days it's not even on the list! 😀
I've got several rack synths, they're not great for user interfaces. Rack is better for set and forget and occasional tweaks, like studio compressors and audio interfaces. They are just too upright and it becomes tiring very quickly sitting or standing at one to work (been there, done it for a career!). I think that's the reason many now offer it as an option for their desktop modules with bolt on ears for the few who want them, rather than making a specific model.
@@2112jonr yep. I really grew to hate the whole process of scrolling through junk patches on a little LCD for something that was close and then menu diving to try to make it actually sound good. It killed my inspiration every time.
This....sounds freakin awesome
Sounds fantastic!, i think it is great for live performance, thank you for the video
That is why I purchased this one as well. It's perfect for live performances 100%
Great review. I plan to buy this synth. All the korg products are great. Difficult to choose which is right for you personally. But I am going for this one.
i like this thing, i like the sound. must have this recreation of dw8000/ppg in setup. /thx bo for review
It seems like an amazing feature set for the price, but I'm holding out for an SE version with aftertouch!
100%
This sounds like a very affordable option to the very pricey Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave new desk top module or keyboard. Sure the 3rd Wave has analog filters, PPG and Prophet VS wave tables and virtual analog osc, but for 5X the price. The new Modwave MK2 Desktop could cover this territory coming out soon is what we are waiting for.
aaaand now I NEED one
At around 11:09 -- 11:20 you convinced me that I need a Korg Modwave. That's gorgeous, Bo!
Sounds like music from Man Of Steel.
Right away I see the X-Y pad, like the Roland V-Synth. The most expressive way to modulate a patch, good sign so far...
@1:58 wow, sounds a lot like v-synth
@2:45 and @8:00 - Kronos/Karma type rhythms going on here.. nice
.. if it had a 61- or 76-key version I would consider it. I am sad at the small sizes offered lately by vendors. Not all of us want DJ-table sized mini gear. I hate having to hit octave-shift keys or do multiple takes because the keyboard is too small.
why doesnt korg put a kaoss pad on EVERYTHING!?!??!?!?!?
May I suggest multiple kaoss pads?
Matthew Bellamy does on every guitar ;-)
I need one on my bike in traffic!
The late 90’s and early 2000’s called
Thank you for the excellent presentation.
Hi BO a must have in the studio yes yes yes !!
Thanks for the video, I have this on preorder. Plan to use the Modwav with it’s predecessor - the EX-8000!
The price is high for someone like me that doesnt know a lot of sound design and classic synth usage, but my god does this thing look fun. I think the Microfreak might still be the only reasonable middle ground for me, but I can see anyone into sound design or straight up tencho being drawn to this 😅
I def will pull the trigger on this one
Does look fun, the ui graphic stuff is creative for a mainstream synth.
Looks interesting.
Glad you like it! Check out homme plastique!
Wavestate vs Modwave?
Please make an extensive comparison with the Hydra synth and Argon 8m
The Modwave Native software has just been updated to have all the features of the modwave and much more as a standalone app and VST. The free demo is unlimited in features and just has a 20 min time limit. Though, the VST seems to reset the 20 min timer every time you hide the window... so....
what do you mean? Do we have to pay for an additional software to see the parameters/patches of the Modwave on the big screen?
Bought one, on it's way
Sounds almost as good as the Korg ms2000🎇
looks like a contender for a modern day opened up Blofeld. no PPG waveforms though. the motion sequencer and pad are great.
This looks really interesting to me. Maybe more musical than the Wavestate. I need a desktop version though.
This is a synth you get to make the kinds of sound this synth makes. If you know what wavetable is, you know what to expect. Does that make sense?
This looks cool 😎
getting one
Just bought a EX 8000, at the core this does seem like a great update, just wish it didn't have so much of the cheesy groovebox vibe shoved in with that, I hear a transwave vibe there too. Looks like from a wave table perspective this has tons of potential. Will be interesting to see what people do with this synth.
Wonderful!
Came here because I had an offer to trade for one, and I'm thinking 'no'. This review concludes by asking us to say if we are interested or not, and the reason why, so:
1. At one point, the reviewer says something like "If this sound doesn't do it for you ..." -- and for me, it didn't. Nothing wrong, just didn't get that must-have feeling. For those who do, I'm sure he's right. For me, a lot of it seemed to be achieving very similar musical effects, the way all jazz sounds alike to those who don't much care for it.
2. This sounds GREAT for making many different kinds of noises -- several of which sound like something from the Hydrasynth, which I already have, and which features polyphonic aftertouch -- and that DOES appeal to me.
3. I hear a lot of 'automatic' sounds: stuff that's playable with a finger or two on the keys, and more about turning knobs. That's a great feature, but not really a part of music I play, which suggests this was not made for someone like me.
Conclusion: seems made for those very interested in sonic sculpting, as opposed to creating songs. This is also somewhat true of the Hydrasynth, which leans more to players by having more keys (and the poly AT). Where this seems more focused on the sonic adjustments, hence so many knobs. Of course, since this video was made, ASM have made a smaller Hydra Explorer, which may offer more competition to the ModWave (price-wise) but still not as knobby.
I used to have a load of fun with the Korg App on my 1st Gen iPad until it was made redundant and I decided not to buy another Apple product. I just happened to stumble across this video and, to be honest, I'm sold. I've been listening to your audio via my Bose Noise Canceling Headphones and it sounds superb. Great video, and thanks for the demo.
Beautiful
So on a scale of 1 through 10 ( 10 being the ultimate, 1 being don’t waste your money ) where would you rate it? To me , it sounds amazing (I’d give it a 9 without even using it yet) thanks for the demo.
Hmmm, i think its a 7/10 for me
4 uploads about Korg Modwave at the exact same time... What in the synchronised synthesised suprise
I believe the term for such serendipity is what the ancient Romans referred to as a "review embargo"
Entirely coincidental. 😎
As I've gotten older, I've come to appreciate clever-clever synth sounds less - OMG am I turning into a flipping purist!!!?? Help!! I used to love the old wavestation etc type sounds in my 'yoof'. I did the whole Omnisphere thing for a while even. So, anyway, whilst I realise it can do restrained, I just feel that synths with so much going on are creativity killers for me personally. I would end up endlessly fiddling with no musical output. It's really really good obviously, but I'm getting so much out of what I have right now (couple of elektron boxes and a novation summit) - all that's more than enough for me. I still like the minilogue and the opsix deffo interests me. Just my personal take but thanks for the review :)
I hear ya. I used to love complex synth. but now I just feel like it's a buzzkill. You ended up fiddling with so many controls and you could easily make something that's completely unusable.
@@djrandomjavabass absolutely. I realised I've bought way more synths than made tracks with them. But I do love em. I made far more songs with my stringed instruments (tenor guitar and mandolin) because they have a way of limiting you. I like those limitations. Looking for unexpected nuances and textures without getting too lost. So I tend to program quite simple and subtle tones; and all singing and dancing ones bore me nowadays.
I agree with you. With time comes more appreciation for what actually serves the purpose and helps us to be creative instead of leading us away from it.
Good instrument feels like a companion. Modwave, with all its sophistication and gizmos, feels more like a distraction, and Korg "forgot" about keyboard aftertouch, again.
Sure, we can swipe that Kaos gizmo, but again, it feels more like a distraction.
@@BlisterHiker Yep. Perhaps the fact that they are doing all these rehashes is good, but did market research really agree upfront? Guess they are reusing the same keybed and cutting costs - but yer right, everyone wants AT and yet Korg aren't into it. Weird. All of these minilogue chassis products need a module version - not like they don't have that chassis already available
I program on a roland mc303 then send the midi out to any synth that sounds good but considering i can use one groovebox considerd the worst groovebox ever made has the best build quality than any new korg. The plastic korgs are really sad to see
Hello Bo Great Video again! I have the Wavestate what would you buy next? The Modwave or The Opsix?
I think the question should be:
Do you want an FM synth? The opsix will be different and modwave will feel but maybe not sound a bit more similar to the wavestate workflow. So if you want a similar user experience modwave is easier
synthwave/ebm/industrial dream synth? :)
I so appreciate your videos. I’m new to synths and I am looking to purchase my first one. At this point, I am between the Minilogue xd and the modwave. Can you give some direction as to the better choice would be for creating ambient music? Thank you for all that you continue to do!🙏🏻
For you I suggest the Minilogue XD - However ambient music can be achieved with the simplest of synths. You need to know and get the feel of synthesizer sounds first. How to design sounds. You then collect and disect your favorite ambient music, replay some of the motifs, and try out how different effects change the sound.
Before you buy, some music stores allow you to hire (ie try out) a synthesizer and some additional equipment like effects. That way it doesn't cost you an arm and a leg before you settle for a particular setup.
I had great fun for almost 14 years, just using a used Roland SH-101 and an old effectsmodule with 8 different modes. Had this setup so I could play it instantly, just power it up and ready to play.
Since selling that, I now own 4 polyfonic synths but create essentially the same music. Having more sounds instantly available, makes it easier to create and record music, on the fly.
If you do go for the Korg Modwave, you're most likely to be overwhelmed, become unsatisfied and even put off to play a synthesizer ever again. Take your time to enjoy the learning process and the satisfaction of discovering your own style.
Wishing you all the best!
@@Hyper5nic How kind of you to take the time to be so specific. Thank you so much. Yes, after more research, I agree with you about the Modwave. In fact, you got me thinking more, and perhaps the Minilogue will be even a better choice, especially because I have some nice guitar pedals I can connect to the Minilogue. Thank you again…you’ve been a great help.💗
I still need to get my hand on the wavestate.. I feel like having a State and doing your mods with external pedal being that I already invested over 2000 in effects alone.. this would be a good tool for someone with limited gear or space. ... or if korg would combine both the wavestate and wavemod into something like an Alesis ION.. that would be dope
hwat kinda pedal?
Sweet!
Alos how the heck did I get unsubscribed from Bo? Unacceptable.
Now back to synth goodness.
FINALLY!!!
"final piece to complete their trinity"? Do you have any inside info from Korg that there will be no more synths in this form factor?
Would you compare it to the Hydrasynth? Wavetables that you can morph between, multiple filters to choose from, etc
@Snake Plissken I have one. It sounds fantastic, but it’s real skill is attracting dust on my table.
Final synth in their trinity? Nah. They still need to do an M1 successor ;)
Nice video!
Can this create some dirty gritty neuro basslines??
im really curious what kind of samples are in it. im between this one and the wavestate and i really like the selection of pianos, strings, etc. i wonder if modwave has the same.
Wasn't there supposed to be a large overlap in the multi samples loaded between this and the wavestate?
Reminds me for Korg Z1....😃
Is it boosted Serum, how you think?)
Can the next Electribe please be a modwave groovebox?