The Korg drumlogue is a drum machine designed to combine the raw power of analogue synthesis with the flexibility of digital voices. It features newly developed analogue circuits for the Bass Drum, Snare Drum, Low Tom, and High Tom parts, engineered by Junichi Ikeuchi. These analogue sections provide dedicated front-panel knobs for key parameters, allowing for immediate sound tweaking without menu navigation, while additional parameters are accessible through the onboard sound editing system.
Complementing the analogue section, the Korg drumlogue includes seven digital parts: six sample-based voices and one synthesis-based Multi-Engine. The sample-based parts can play preloaded PCM banks or user-imported samples, with 64 preloaded drum kits included to cover various genres. The Multi-Engine incorporates Variable Phase Modulation (VPM) and Noise generator engines, along with a User Custom slot that allows for full-fledged synth voices. This slot supports the logue SDK, enabling third-party developers to create custom synthesisers with features such as built-in filters, LFOs, and MIDI-controlled polyphony.
The Korg drumlogue is equipped with a heavy-duty 64-step sequencer that supports complex rhythm patterns and polyrhythms. Sequencing features include per-step probability, alternate trigger patterns, micro offsets, and per-track groove patterns. The interface includes a clear OLED display for visual sequence editing, along with Chain mode for long patterns, Loop mode for variations, and Motion and Accent recording functions. A Randomization function is also available to assist with live performance and creative exploration.
Effects processing includes three simultaneous categories: Delay, Reverb, and Master effects. Send amounts for delay and reverb can be set independently for each part, with multiple return points available. Master effects can be bypassed on a per-part basis and feature a sidechain bus. The system supports custom third-party Delay, Reverb, and Master Effects, with each effect capable of implementing up to 24 parameters. An audio input is provided to process external instruments through the Korg drumlogue effect chain.
Connectivity options include a USB-A port for connecting USB MIDI class compliant devices, such as the nanoKONTROL2 or nanoPAD2, for additional control. Audio output is provided via four individual outputs, a headphone jack, and L/MONO and R outputs, allowing any part to be assigned to any output for external processing or multitrack recording. Synchronisation is available via MIDI IN/OUT, SYNC IN/OUT, or USB connection to a computer-based DAW.
The physical design features a slanted main panel for improved ergonomics and visibility, housed in a sturdy aluminium body with a brushed hairline finish and wooden side panels. Navigation is facilitated by a wide OLED screen and four dedicated encoder knobs, while dedicated volume pots for each part streamline the mixing process.
Features
- Newly developed analogue circuits for Bass Drum, Snare Drum, Low Tom, and High Tom
- 7 digital parts comprising 6 sample-based voices and 1 Multi-Engine synthesis voice
- Multi-Engine with Variable Phase Modulation (VPM), Noise generator, and User Custom slot
- Support for logue SDK to create and load custom synthesisers and effects
- 64-step sequencer with per-step probability, micro offsets, and groove patterns
- Simultaneous Delay, Reverb, and Master effects with per-part bypass and sidechain
- Four individual audio outputs plus L/MONO and R outputs for flexible routing
- USB-A port for connectivity with USB MIDI class compliant devices
- OLED display with 4 dedicated encoder knobs for intuitive navigation
- Sturdy aluminium body with slanted panel and wooden side panels
