Overview

Synthesis Technology EDS (Enhanced Definition Synthesis) MMT (Multi Modelling Technology) sound generator can be added by installing the optional EXB-RADIAS Tone Generator 256 Mbyte (when converted to 16-bit linear format) 1,032 Multisamples 1,606 Drum Samples Maximum Polyphony 120 voices, 120 oscillators max, single mode 60 voices, 120 oscillators max, double mode*
* The actual maximum polyphony will vary depending on oscillator settings such as stereo multisamples and velocity crossfading.

Sampling
16-bit, linear, 48 kHz mono/stereo sampling Resampling available (Open Sampling System) 64 Mbyte memory standard (expandable up to 320 Mbyte with EXB-M256 option)

Sounds
Programs 1,664 user locations, 640 preloaded (512 EDS+128 RADIAS with EXB-RADIAS option installed)

Controllers
CONTROL ASSIGN (T18, T916, INPUTS), REALTIME CONTROL, EXTERNAL, TONE ADJUST, KARMA Control Surface (8 sliders, 8 switches) 8 Switches: MIXER PLAY/MUTE (SOLO) REALTIME CONTROL= IFX15, MFX1, MFX2, TFX on/ off EXTERNAL= External MIDI control* TONEADJUST=ControltheToneAdjustfunctions KARMA= KARMA control 8 Sliders: MIXER= Volume REALTIME CONTROL= Realtime modulation EXTERNAL= External MIDI control* TONE ADJUST=Control the Tone Adjust functions KARMA= KARMA control
* In External mode, the eight sliders, eight switches, and eight pads can be used as MIDI controllers, allowing you to control software synthesizers or DAW software via CC settings. 128 setups can be stored (102 are preloaded).

Audio Input
1, 2 1/4" TS (Mono), unbalanced (level switch (MIC/LINE), level knob) Input Impedance: 10 k Ohms, Headroom:12 dB, Input level range LINE: 29 dBu +4 dBu or greater (typical), Input level range MIC: 54 dBu 17 dBu or greater (typical), Source Impedance: 600 Ohms S/P DIF (optical 24-bit, 48 kHz) IEC60958 EIAJCP-1201 (Optional) EXB-FW 2 channels, 24-bit, 48 kHz Sample rate

Options
EXB-M256 EXB-FW 256 Mbyte Sample Memory Expansion Board 2 in/6 out digital audio + MIDI FireWire Board EXB-RADIAS 24-voice, 4-part multitimbral RADIAS Synthesizer Board EX-USB -PCM series PCM Expansion USB Memory devices (M3-61/73/88) Tray for mounting RADIAS-R MA-T to M3-61/73/88 MA-L Hinge for mounting RADIAS-R or M3-M to M3-73/88 XVP-10 EXP/VOL Pedal EXP-2 Foot Controller DS-1H Damper Pedal (supports half-damping) Pedal Switch PS-1

Program Structure
Oscillator OSC1 (Single), OSC1+2 (Double) Stereo multisamples are supported 4 velocity zones per oscillator, with switching, crossfades and layers. Filters Four types of filter routing (single, serial, parallel, 24 dB) Two multi-mode filters per voice (low pass, high pass, band pass, band reject) Driver Per-voice nonlinear driver and low boost EQ Three bands, with sweepable mid Modulation For each voice: two envelope generators (Filter & Amp) Two LFOs Two key tracking generators (Filter & Amp) Two AMS mixers Pitch EG Common LFO Two common key tracking generators Combination Structure Up to sixteen timbres For each timbre: keyboard and velocity split/layer/crossfade INT, OFF, EXT and EX2 MIDI status settings 3-band EQ with sweepable mid Pitch/Transpose Use OSC1, 2 or Both Force Osc Mode (PRG, MONO, LEGATO, POLY) Portamento and Bend range settings Controller filters Modifications to the program settings via the Tone Adjust function Drum Kit Structure Stereo and mono drum sample 4-way velocity switches with crossfades and adjustable crossfade shapes (Linear, Power, Layer) Exclusive keygroups Per key 3-band EQ, Drive, Lo Boost, filter and level offsets

Sampling time (RAM) RAM1 (64 Mbytes standard) allows up to approximately 11 minutes 39 seconds of mono sampling or approximately 5 minutes 49 seconds of stereo sampling. 512 bytes are used by the system. RAM2 (256 Mbytes when the EXB-M256 is installed) allows up to approximately 46 minutes 36 seconds of mono sampling or approximately 23 minutes 18 seconds of stereo sampling. RAM1+RAM2 (Total 320 Mbytes) allows up to approximately 58 minutes 15 seconds of mono sampling or approximately 29 minutes 7 seconds of stereo sampling. (Continuous sampling across RAM1 and RAM2 is not possible.) Sampling time (MEDIA) Maximum sampling time to a USB storage device is a maximum of approximately 80 minutes for one sample file, for either mono or stereo. This occupies approximately 440 Mbytes for mono, or 879 Mbytes for stereo. 1,000 Multisamples, 4,000 Samples, 128 indexes per sample Supports Korg format, AIFF, WAV, AKAI S1000/S3000 (with advanced Program conversion), SoundFont 2.0 reading Sample directly from audio CDs (CD-DA) Time Stretch, Time Slice, Crossfade Loop, and other editing features

Combinations 1,792 user locations, 384 preloaded Drumkits GM 144 user locations, 32 preloaded 256 GM2 programs, 9 GM2 drum kits

Sequencer
16-trackMIDIsequencerwith480PPQresolution 128 Songs, 20 Cue Lists, 210,000 notes (max) Tempo: 40.00 300.00 BPM (1/100 resolution) 16 preset/16 user Template Songs 522 preset patterns, 100 user patterns (per Song) Cue List function: 20 cue lists, Songs can be arranged consecutively or repeatedly in up to 99 steps, A cue list can be converted back into a song StandardMIDIFile(SMF)format0and1available In-Track Sampling function Auto Song Setup function (One Touch Record) for easily going from a Program or Combination into record-ready status

Interface
MIDI IN, OUT, THRU Computer 2 USB type A hi-speed connectors, supporting 480 Mbps (for storage devices) USB type B connector (for MIDI interface, USB 2.0 supported) 2 FireWire ports (when EXB-FW (separately sold option) installed) Keyboard TO KYBD (for connection to keyboard assembly unit)

General
Keyboard 61-key, 73-key semi-weighted synth action (Korgs new keyboard design) 88-key weighted action (RH3: Real Weighted Hammer Action 3 keyboard with 4-zone graded action response) Controllers Joystick, Ribbon Controller, [SW1], [SW2] Interface TO MODULE (for connection to M3-M tone generator module) TO MODULE (second) (available on 73-key and 88-key) Display 5.7 inch colour TouchView GUI, 320 x 240 dot, XY control function Control Inputs Damper Pedal (half damper pedaling supported), Assignable Switch, Assignable Pedal Common specifications Frequency response: 20 Hz20 kHz, +/-1.0 dB, 10 k Ohms load THD+N: 20 Hz20 kHz, 0.08 % 10 k Ohms load (typical) Included Accessories AC cord Owners Manual (M3 Operation Guide) CD-ROM containing M3 Parameter Guide (PDF) Voice Name List (PDF) KORG MIDI driver M3 Editor stand alone and plug-in versions Weight M3-61: 31.08 lbs (14.1 kg) M3-73: 38.14 lbs (17.3 kg) M3-88: 58.42 lbs (26.5 kg) Module: 10.58 lbs (4.8 kg) Current Consumption 35 Watts

RPPR (Realtime Pattern

Play/Recording)
A set of 100 patterns are available per Song

8velocity-sensitivedrumpadsandchordtriggers: [KARMA ON/OFF] [KARMA LATCH] [CHORD ASSIGN] [DRUM TRACK ON/OFF] [PAD MODE] selects velocity-sensitive or fixed velocity operation [KARMA MODULE CONTROL] [RESET CONTROL] X-Y Control (Display), Hold, Motion

System Requirements
Computer with the KORG USB-MIDI Driver Windows: Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition/Professional Service Pack 2 or later (MIDI Driver for the 64-bit editions is a Beta version), all editions of Microsoft Windows Vista (MIDI Driver for the 64-bit editions is a Beta version), computer supports Windows XP/Vista with USB port (Intel USB Host Controller recommended). Macintosh: Mac OS X 10.3.9 or later, Apple Macintosh with USB ports supports Mac OS X 10.3.9 (PowerPC/Intel-based supported). M3 Editor/Plug-In Editor Windows: Windows XP Home Edition / Professional Service Pack 2 or later, Intel Pentium III/1 GHz or faster, 512 Mbyte or larger memory (1 Gbyte or larger recommended) Macintosh: Mac OS X 10.4 or later, G4/800 MHz or faster (Intel-based Mac supported, G5 and/or Core Duo recommended), 512 Mbyte or larger memory (1 Gbyte or larger recommended) Computer with the EXB-FW Windows: Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition / Professional Service Pack 2, computer supports Windows XP with Firewire port. Macintosh: Mac OS X 10.4 or later, Apple Macintosh with Firewire ports supports Mac OS X 10.4 (PowerPC/Intel-based supported).

Drum Track
522 preset patterns/1,000 user patterns Patterns created in Sequencer mode can be converted to drum track user patterns Trigger Mode (Immediate, Wait for Keyboard), Sync (On, Off) and Zone (Key and Velocity) settings can be specified. Program selection, 3-band EQ and effect bussing available

Media
Load, Save, Utility, Make Audio CD, Play Audio CD Data Filer functionality (Save and Load MIDI System Exclusive Data) CD-ROM/R/RW (UDF Format read/write), Record & Play audio CDs (CD-DA), ISO9660 Level 1 WAVE file editing functionality CD-ROM/R/RW can be used when a commercially-available USB drive is connected.

Effects
5 Insert Effects (stereo in/out), 2 Master Effects (stereo in/out), 1 Total Effect (stereo in/out) are available simultaneously 2 effect control busses, 2 effect common LFOs 170 types (can be used for Insert/Master/Total.) Note: double-size effects cannot be used as a Total effect. Effects Presets: Up to 32 per Effect AUX bus: Two internal buses for sampling and routing audio to the EXB-RADIAS 3-band Track EQ (High, low, and sweepable mid band) Per Program in Program Mode, per timbre in Combination mode (16 total), and per Track in Sequencer mode (16 total)

KARMA
OneKARMAmoduleavailableinProgramMode, fourKARMAmodulesavailableinCombination andSequencerModes,plusMasterControlmodule 2,093 preset GEs (Generated Effect) Controllers: ON/OFF, LATCH, MODULE CONTROL, KARMA SLIDERS 18, KARMA SWITCHES 18, KARMA SCENES 1/54/8 (8 scenes). KARMA Wave Sequence, Freeze Randomize, Time Signature Control, Auto RTC (Realtime Control) Setup

Audio Outputs
L/MONO, R - 1/4" TS (Mono), unbalanced INDIVIDUAL-1, 2, 3, 4 - 1/4" TS (Mono), unbalanced Output Impedance: 1.1k Ohm stereo; 550 Ohms mono (L/Mono only), Nominal Level: +4.0 dBu, Maximum Level: +16.0 dBu, Load Impedance: 10 k Ohms or greater, Signal to noise ratio: 90 dBu (typical), Dynamic range: 91 dBu (typical) S/P DIF (optical 24-bit, 48 kHz), S/P DIF IEC60958 EIAJCP-1201, provides digital output of the same signals as AUDIO OUTPUT (MAIN) L/Mono, R (Optional) EXB-FW 6 channels, 24-bit, 48 kHz Sample rate, provides digital output of the same signals as AUDIO OUTPUT (MAIN) L/Mono, R and AUDIO OUTPUT (INDIVIDUAL) 14 Headphones 1/4" TRS (Stereo), Output Impedance: 33 Ohms, Maximum Level: 32+ 32 mW @33 Ohms

X-Y control
X-Y MODE The TouchView display can be used as an X-Y controller. Hold function provided. XY MOTION function XY Control finger movements can be recorded in realtime, and memorized for each Program, Combination, or Song. Program mode Oscillator volume, synth parameters, and effect parameters can be controlled. Combination, Sequencer modes Timbre/track volume, synth parameters, and effect parameters can be controlled.

Dimensions Module: M3-61 and Module:

M3-73 and Module: M3-88 and Module:

26.50"(W) x 7.95"(D) x 3.23"(H) 673(W) x 202(D) x 82(H) mm 40"(W) x 14.65"(D) x 4.76"(H) (module down) 1016(W) x 372(D) x 121(H) mm 40"(W) x 14.65"(D) x 6.73"(H) (module up) 1016(W) x 372(D) x 171(H) mm 46.81(W) x 14.60(D) x 5.15(H)(module down) 1189(W) x 371(D) x 131(H) mm 46.81(W) x 14.60(D) x 8.14(H)(module up) 1189(W) x 371(D) x 207(H) mm 56.10(W) x 17.40(D) x 5.15(H)(module down) 1425(W) x 442(D) x 131(H) mm 56.10(W) x 17.40(D) x 8.14(H)(module up) 1425(W) x 442(D) x 207(H) mm

Trademark Notes

www.korg.co.uk/m3 www.korg.com/m3

Mac, Mac logo and FireWire, FireWire logo are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Windows XP and Windows VISTA are registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries. VST and ASIO are trademarks of Steinberg Media Technologies GmbH. The Audio Units logo and the Audio Units symbol are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc. RTAS is a trademark or registered trademark of Avid Technology, Inc., or its subsidiaries or divisions. KARMA (Kay Algorithmic Realtime Music Architecture) and the KARMA logo are registered trademarks representing patented technology licensed from Stephen Kay, Karma Lab LLC, www.karma.com

what a revolution sounds like

Specifications and features are subject to change without notice.

1.0 Now Korg Is Poised To Redefine The Workstation Category Once Again.
effects

+Main features
New EDS (Enhanced Definition Synthesis) sound generator derived from the OASYS's HD-1 engine supports up to four-way velocity switching, and features powerful filter configurations plus advanced modulation possibilities, producing rich and vivid sounds. A gigantic 256 Mbytes (16-bit linear data equivalent) of 48 kHz sampled PCM memory contains a total of 1,032 multisamples and 1,606 drum samples, including many stereo and velocity-switched elements. The same second-generation KARMA functionality featured on the OASYS, an all-new Drum Track function, the Open Sampling System, and a high-resolution 16-track MIDI sequencer provide a new production environment that lets you seamlessly combine your inspirations into completed form. Virtualized Hardware via a new Firewire functionality allows the M3 to be closely integrated into your DAW system. Korg Komponent System a new concept that lets you flexibly construct your system from hardware units.

+Enhanced Definition Synthesis A new horizon of sound-making potential

The M3 features a newly developed EDS sound generating system based on a new chip design that was developed in parallel with the HD-1 engine found in the flagship OASYS. It takes full advantage of the M3's 256 Mbytes of PCM source material which is a veritable best of from the OASYS. Using Korg's advanced voicing technology, the 1,032 multisamples, 1,606 drum samples, four-level velocity switching/crossfading/layering, and stereo sampling allow for an enormous range of high-quality, detailed, and expressive sounds. The filter section, a vital part of the sound-creation process, lets you simultaneously use two filters for each oscillator, and can be configured in series or parallel. Four filter types are provided: low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, and band-reject. The amp section features a driver circuit that gives the sound a sense of edge and character. Detailed envelope generators, abundant modulation routings, plus the all-new AMS Mixers for advanced processing, all combine to provide a level of sound shaping far beyond previous possibilities. The all-important effect section provides up to five insert effects, two master effects, and one total effect. In addition to great chorus/flanger/phasers, delays and reverbs, the 170 effect types include dynamics-type effects such as compressor and limiter, and amp modelling and speaker simulation effects using Korg's proprietary REMS modelling technology.

filter

+Simple, elegant, and warm design using a combination of contrasting materials

Choose from four models (61-key, 73-key, 88-key, or a sound module), with the 61 and 73 key versions premiering a newlydevelop keyboard that feels great and increases both expression and control. A rich array of expansion possibilities includes the EXB-RADIAS (a RADIAS-derived analog modelling synthesizer board), the EXB-M256 (PCM sample memory expansion), the EXB-FW board that allows virtualized hardware expansion via a single FireWire cable, and EX-USB-PCM series libraries to be released in the future.

AMS mixer

+Unique Design

+Enhanced definition
The M3 utilises a new sound chip designed in parallel with the software that became the HD-1 in the flagship OASYS. This new EDS (Enhanced Definition Synthesis) system shares much of the OASYS lineage. With its low-aliasing oscillators, a powerful new filter topology, detailed envelope generators, a Drive parameter for analogue warmth and grit, and the AMS mixer for advanced modulations, the 120-voice M3 delivers the essential elements from the acclaimed HD-1 design.

+Radias enhanced
You can add even more synth power to your M3 thanks to the EXB-RADIAS expansion board, a 24-voice version of the awesome MMT synthesizer engine that fuels both the Radias and R3 synths. Just pop it in your M3 and enjoy analogue-modelling and digital synthesis combined to offer endless synthesis possibilities. 128 great new Programs marry that engine to the many features found only in the M3.

+More ROM
A whopping 256Mb of ROM with 1,032 multisamples and 1,606 drum samples provides plenty of samples to make sounds from. Its like the best-of from the OASYS ROM compiled into a great new sound set, including velocity-switched sources for the main acoustic sounds and plenty of synth sources and drums.

+Amazing sounds
Korg is renowned for its unsurpassed sound programming, and the M3 takes that reputation to an even higher level. 512 expressive Programs and 384 stunning Combinations take full advantage of all the innovations of the M3. With space for a total of 1,664 Programs and 1,792 Combinations, youll never run out of room for your own creations..

2.0 Third-generation workstation from the company that invented the concept.
+Control room
The M3 music workstation uses the same type of multi-mode real-time control surface as first featured on the OASYS. Eight sliders and switches with powerful functionality give you total control over tweaking internal sounds, mixing tracks, interacting with KARMA, controlling external hardware and more.

The M3 offers a new design concept called the Korg Komponent System, allowing you to custom-configure your own expandable instrument. The 73-key version can host both the M3 and the Radias-R module for a powerful dual-panel system. The 88-key version can actually hold dual M3 engines or the M3/Radias configuration. (Additional mounting hardware required)

X-Y mode, a dynamic control surface and more equal ultimate expressive power
The M3 is remarkable not only for the freshness of its sounds, but also for its remarkable new control environment. The colour LCD of the M3 Music Workstation /Sampler not only provides a touch-view GUI that ensures intuitive and easy operation, but it also operates as an X-Y Pad, allowing sound and effect parameters to be controlled in real-time by sliding your finger across or tapping on the screen. Further control is provided by a Motion function that lets you capture and play back your finger moves to shape your sound and performance in unique ways.

+Better sequencer
The M3 features a new high-resolution sequencer engine with a professional 480PPQ for the most natural feel. It includes all the must-have Korg innovations like one-touch record, song templates, RPPR, cue list and tone adjust part editing.

+KARMA-fied
The M3 includes all the secondgeneration KARMA functions as featured on the flagship OASYS, including KARMA wave-sequencing. KARMA is the inspiring, real-time phrase generator that can help you play everything from natural instrument gestures to complex cascades of notes, dance riffs, gated and chopping effects, and more.

+Great new feel

The 61- and 73-key synth-action versions feature a newly designed keybed that delivers great feel, fast response and ultimate control. The 88-key version uses Korgs heralded RH3 weighted action that is graded to feel heavier at the bottom and progressively lighter as you go up. All three models boast aftertouch sensitivity.

The screen even changes colours in response to the movement of your finger for cool visual feedback to your performance.

+Open sampling
The Open Sampling system allows sampling and resampling in every mode, with 64Mb of RAM as standard, expandable to 320Mb with the optional EXB-M256 board. Compatibility with WAV, AIFF, AKAI and now SoundFont 2.0 ensures a library of possible sounds beyond your own creative efforts.

+Drummer included +Innovative control

Weve included a wealth of expressive controllers to enhance your performance. The classic Korg joystick, dual switches, a ribbon and multiple pedal inputs are just the beginning.

+Perfect padding
Eight great-feeling velocity-sensitive pads can be used to trigger notes, chords, controller messages for use with KARMA or your own live performance and sequencing needs. You can store up to eight notes per pad, retaining all the feel and nuance of your chord voicing, and play them back exactly as entered or with full velocity scaling.

Drum Tracks are an M3 innovation: natural sounding, user-programmable grooves that can be played along to for instant inspiration, integrated with KARMA for new creative possibilities and used as springboards for your next hit song.

The eight slider/switch control surface offers multi-functional control over KARMA, sounds, effects and even external hardware.

3.0 Taking synthesis to the next level.

+Funky Drummer
A drumkit in the M3 can be created from ROM or RAM samples, with up to four-way velocity switching and cross-fading for incredible realism. The M3 provides a new Drum Track function in Program and Combi modes that adds a groove to each sound you play. Combined with KARMA it makes even a Program a complete sonic adventure that is sure to inspire. You can select patterns from over 500 in internal memory and start them from a desired region of the keyboard or by playing a velocity that's above a specified threshold. Since the Drum Track uses MIDI data stored in a Pattern, it is easy for you to create your own in the Sequencer Mode, either recording them, importing them from SMF data or other users songs, or converting recorded KARMA data as MIDI events for further manipulation. Even sampled loops can be used! This is a powerful feature for uses ranging from creating music-production memos to realtime performance.

+New High-Resolution Sequencer

The sequencer that's at the heart of the M3's song production is an intuitively-understandable 16-track design that holds up to 128 songs and 210,000 notes. The high timing resolution of 480 PPQ captures every nuance and detail of your performance. Three-band EQ per track provides detailed sound-shaping, as does the Tone Adjust sound tweaking function. The Cue List function that has been a popular feature ever since the now-classic TRITON series lets you create songs in sections, or play back completed songs as a medley. All the now-classic Korg features are included, such as One-touch setup which takes you from playing a Program or Combination to ready-to-record status in one easy step, automatically arming tracks and routing voices behind the scenes. Song Templates contain pre-assigned effect routings and program assignments, providing one more shortcut to help you capture your creative outbursts. The M3 comes with 16 of these Song Templates, plus another 16 you can customtailor to your own needs. Each Template Song also provides a number of rhythm patterns including intro, fills and endings that you can use to instantly create a rhythm track. Individual track looping allows flexible manipulation of repeated phrases such as drum grooves against longer parts like melodies and solos. Advanced editing tools like variable quantization with selectable intensity and swing allow for nuanced adjustments to your recordings. Detailed event editing lets you work on your tracks with surgical precision, and a Compare function acts like an Undo for your last change to easily judge the effect of your edits. Realtime Pattern Play and Record (RPPR) can be used to assign sequenced Patterns to individual keys on the keyboard for an interactive performance, or to quickly build up tracks. Time-tested features that have been proven to aid in inspiration and song creation combine to deliver an intuitive and enjoyable songwriting experience the M3 has it all!

The M3's Open Sampling System lets you sample and resample in any mode to produce new remixed combinations of sounds and effects, or to capture full performances In-Track within the sequencer. Cutting-edge editing tools include Time Slice, Time Stretch, Crossfade Looping, Rate Change and Normalize. An easy-to-use Auto-Setup function makes all the right sampling settings for you, with the press of a button. Stock sampling memory is 64MB, and can be increased to 320MB by adding the optional EXB-M256 memory expansion board. Samples in Korg native format, AIFF, WAV, Soundfont V2.0 and AKAI (S-1000/3000 with advanced Program parameter conversion) formats can be used, and internal samples can be exported as WAV or AIFF if needed. Sampling can also be done to attached media, so USB memory sticks and hard drives can be used to extend memory size, so you can resample a complete song as a WAV file to be burned to a USB CD-R/RW as an audio disc, or for moving to a computer for further editing and manipulation.

+2nd Generation KARMA Onboard

The second generation KARMA functionality that first appeared on the OASYS and received acclaim from artists and users world-wide is also provided. KARMA is the inspiring, real-time phrase generator that can help you play everything from natural instrument gestures like intricate finger-picking, strumming and harp glissandos, to complex cascades of notes, dance-riffs, gated and chopping effects and improvising drum grooves. The inspiration that KARMA offers, coupled with the unheard-of phrase variability is second to none. In Program Mode, one KARMA Generated Effect (GE) can be assigned to a single drum groove, melodic phrase, comping gated part or other musical effect. Eight sliders, eight switches, and eight scene buttons (two settings of four) provide dedicated real-time control and the ability to store complete snapshots of your settings.

The Control Surface can access and manipulate each module individually on its own Module Layer. In addition to the four individual Module Layers, there is a Master Layer that can be mapped to parameters from any of the modules, even grouping them together so one slider can control the swing feel of all four modules at the same time, or the rhythmic activity of two or three modules at once, to name a few. Each Module Layer has 8 Scenes that store the settings of the sliders and switches in 8 different snapshots, instantly recalling completely different settings for that layer. The Master Layer's 8 Scenes, in addition to storing the settings of the 16 sliders and switches for its parameters, also control which scene is selected for each module. With 8 Scenes in each Module, and 8 Master Scenes storing which of those scenes are selected at which time, the possibilities are endless.

The M3 has incredible control over each KARMA element yet has been refined to be even easier to use, thanks to 13 Real-Time Control Models (RTC Models). An RTC Model standardizes which parameters of a KARMA GE are available for real time control, and how the Control Surface is assigned to them. With multiple GEs sharing the same exact setup, what you learn while controlling one GE is consistent and applicable to other GEs as well. Finally, the 2nd generation KARMA provides a signature sonic effect called KARMA Wave-Sequencing that can change a sound's waveforms rhythmically in realtime, allowing each note to access a different waveform as it is generated with predictable or wild results.
KARMA (Kay Algorithmic Realtime Music Architecture) and the KARMA logo are registered trademarks representing patented technology licensed from Stephen Kay, Karma Lab LLC, www.karma.com

sampler

+Open Sampling

KARMA

drumkits

4.0 Flexibility and Performance

+Virtualized hardware allows the M3 to operate like a plug-in instrument

In addition to being a highly-developed music workstation, the M3 is also able to closely integrate with your computer. By connecting the M3 to your computer via USB and using the included M3 Editor software, you can edit sounds and settings from your computer. A plugin version of M3 Editor is also provided, so you can use it from within your DAW as a plug-in instrument. For even more complete integration, Korg's new Virtualized Hardware concept comes into play. When the optional EXB-FW FireWire board is installed, a single FireWire cable will convey both the M3's MIDI and audio signals to the tracks of your DAW in which the plug-in is running. This means that you can construct a highly integrated environment that adds the reliability of hardware to your software music production system, adding additional power to your virtual world.

+RADIAS inside
You can add an internal RADIAS analog modelling synthesizer sound generator board (4 part multitimbral; one timbre per Program, up to 4 programs can be used in Combination and Sequencer mode),with on-screen integration of all its parameters and full integration with the M3's effects, control surface and KARMA functionality. This powerful MMT-based (Multiple Modelling Technology) synth engine features dual oscillators which combine to offer analogmodeled waves, PCM waves, noise, ring mod and more. Waveform modulation, Variable Phase Modulation (VPM), Unison voice thickening, PWM and cross-mod expand the sonic palette. Dual Filters can run in series, parallel, or side by side (individual for each oscillator). Filter1 features a resonant filter design covering 24 dB low pass, 12 dB low pass plus 12 dB high and band pass, with continuously variable morphing between these states. Filter2 offers 12dB versions of the low, high and band pass modes, plus a unique comb filter. Two LFOs and three ADSR envelopes shape the sound and add cyclic motion to nearly any voice parameter. Three 16-step Modulation Sequencers provide discreet values to a modulation parameter that change over time, either in stepped or smooth motion, and can loop over and over. Internal or external audio can be run through the EXB-RADIAS to be gated and filtered using the internal synthesis and effects.Drive adds analog warmth, Punch brings increased definition to the attack of a sound, and 12-types of Wave Shaping provides dramatic timbral shaping even offering virtual pick-up response. The EXB-RADIAS offers the same vocoder as the RADIAS, offering 16 bands with individual control over level and panning. Formant Motion records the formant of a sung or spoken phrase so it can be recreated any time.

+Choose from a lineup of four types, with a newly designed keyboard for superbly expressive feel
The M3 Music Workstation/Sampler is available as a lineup of four models: 61-key, 73-key, and weighted 88-key models, as well as the module-only M3-M. The 61-key and 73-key models use a proprietary new semi-weighted synth action keyboard developed by Korg for great playing feel and expressive aftertouch response. The 88-key model features the RH3 (Real Weighted Hammer Action 3) keyboard that reproduces the playing sensation of a grand piano, in which the low range has a heavier feel, with the touch becoming lighter as you play upward on the keyboard, allowing superb response to fine movements of your fingers.

+Korg Komponent System gives you flexibility to construct your hardware system
The M3 Music Workstation/Sampler introduces the new Korg Komponent System, featuring detachable keyboard and sound generator sections. The 61-key model lets you mount a RADIAS-R analog modelling synthesizer instead of the M3-M sound generator, the 73-key model lets you mount the M3-M together with a RADIAS-R analog modelling synthesizer, and the 88-key model supports the combination of M3-M and RADIAS-R or even mounting two M3-M units simultaneously. Of course you can detach the M3-M sound generator and use it as a sound module, giving you great flexibility for constructing the system you need whenever you want. (Adding RADIAS-R requires both MA-L and MA-T optional hardware. Adding M3-M requires MA-L optional hardware.)

+A rich array of input/output jacks

The M3 provides two analog and two digital (S/P DIF) inputs as standard. In addition to the main two-channel output (L/MONO, R), there are four independent outputs as well as two-channel digital output (S/P DIF), meeting the needs of professionals. Two USB connectors are provided: a type-B USB connector for connection to your computer as a MIDI interface, and a type-A connector for connecting external storage media. USB 2.0 is supported to ensure high-speed transfer of large amounts of data.