Here we have the oldie but goodie Korg 05R/W, a half-rack digital synthesizer module based on Korg’s 01W series AI2 synthesis.
The 05R/W contains 340 multi-sampled waveforms, providing all one basically needs for modern music production – especially pop/rock/dance. It is 8-part multi-timbral (there is – as usual with Korg instruments – a COMBI section where you can store your combinations) and thus can be very effectively used in a MIDI setup.
There are also 164 drum sounds, and many of these are already superbly “produced” (compressed, equalized, enhanced) and ready to be the basis of your drum tracks “from the box”. The drum sounds are also fully editable.
GM (General MIDI) is also present, as a bank in the PROG section. The sounds starting with the letter “G” follow the GM protocol and can be used with thousands of available MIDI files.
There is also a great sounding multi-effect processor on board, capable of providing up to four effects simultaneously. There are the usual suspects (reverb, delay) but also more esoteric offerings such as equalizer, exciter, enhancer, and rotary speaker.
A fantastic supplement to this synthesizer is the inclusion of alternative tuning scales! Several scale types are provided besides the standard equal-tempered, including Arabic, Werkmeister III, and Indonesian scales. You can also create and store your own.
This synth also features a serial port in its rear, allowing the user to connect directly to a Mac or PC without the need of a separate interface.
Korg 05R/W factory demo song
Korg 05R/W audio demos
COMBI
PROG
Korg 05R/W Specs
| Year of release | 1993 |
| Oscillators | 2 |
| Polyphony | 32-voice |
| Presets | 236 Programs, 100 Combinations |
| Responds to velocity | Yes |
| Responds to aftertouch | Yes |
| Sound generation method | AI² |
| Sound expansion capabilities | n/a |
| Effects | Yes |
| Sequencer | n/a |
| MIDI | In, Out, Thru |
| Output | Stereo pair |
| Display | Yes, LCD 16×2 backlit green |
| Dimensions | 8.6″ (W) x 9.5″ (D) x 1.8 (H) |
| Weight | 1.1 kg (2.4 lbs.) |
| Rack mount kit | RA-01 |
| ROM | 6 Mbits, 340 waveforms |
Reset the Korg 05R/W to factory (initialize):
- Press GLOBAL MULTI;
- Using the BANK/PAGE+ button, scroll to page 05A PRESET DATA;
- Press the +1 button. It will prompt “Are You Sure OK?”;
- Press the +1 button again. It will show “Completed”. The unit is now reset to factory specs.
Korg 05R/W manuals
Korg 05R/W factory sysex
Korg 05R/W photos
