Review: Up close with the KORG Monotribe
MONOTRIBE! Review Part A – Dub At First Sight! Electro, Dubstep, Reggae, etc.
“Now available in the US of A – Even better than I thought it would be. 
To demonstrate, I’m rockin’ the new KORG Monotribe – a machine both classic and new.”
Shared by VJFranzK
Playing with FunkBox, Little MIDI Machine, MonoTribe and Omega 2
FunkBox app on the iPad doing drum sounds and master clock duties. Little MIDI Machine (multi-tasking beta version) synced up on the same iPad and sequencing two hardware synth parts on the SE Omega 2 synth using CoreMIDI through the iO Dock. MonoTribe synth is synced up to the iPad using SyncKontrol app on an iPod Touch, and is sequencing itself.
Featured hardware – Omega 2:
General Specifications Voices: two. Multi-timbrality: two part. Parameters: patch, number of voices, midi channel, key range, fine tune (x8), output routing (x8), dynamics range (x8), dynamics fade (x8). Audio outputs: one stereo per voice. One main stereo and main mono output. Interface: 12 knobs (relative and jump modes), 1 rotary encoder, 30 tactile switches, 21 LEDS. Display: 16 x 2 back lit liquid crystal. Memory: 256 sound patches, 128 multi patches in RAM. Weight: 10 lbs. Dimensions: 2 rack spaces, 15 inches deep Power: 90 – 250 volts AC auto switching Voice Architecture Two voltage controlled discrete analog oscillators with sub oscillator. Waveforms: triangle, sawtooth and variable width square. All waveforms output simultaneously. Syncing of Osc 2 to Osc 1. Two voltage controlled discrete analog filters. 24db (classic Moog), 12 db (classic Oberheim). 12db filter has low pass, bandpass, high pass, and band reject modes. Each voice has the capabIlIty of having four different filters available for use. Additional filters (up to 2 per voice) can be added as desired in any number. Filters do not operate in series or parallel. Current additional filters avallable: Roland 303 and Arp 2600. Three low frequency oscillators. (LFO3 fixed to voice panning. ) Waveforms: triangle, sawtooth, reverse sawtooth, square, noise, random. Up to three destinations and depths each for LFOS 1 & 2 with range, delay, key trigger, phase, mode (mono or poly), quantize, and midi sync. Three multiple stage envelope generators. Attack, decay, sustain and release with inverting and multiple triggering. Envelopes 1 & 2 have additional delay, decay2, and breakpoint parameters. Envelope 1 fixed to filter frequency. Envelope 2 fixed to amplifier level. Envelope 3 is assignable with up to three destinations and depths.
Quick tip: Working with arpeggios on the KORG Monotribe
A few simple Monotribe tips, in this video it is shown how to make arpeggio type fx using the square wave LFO, and how to use a slower tempo to get 1 or 2 bar patterns.
How to sync Korg Monotribe to Nintendo DS-10
See video for how to, this would also work with iMS-20 app or most other drum machines, just remember to create a short pulse and pan it hard opposite to any audio, have fun!
KORG Monotribe performing Pink Floyd’s “On The Run”
gattobus has shared this little video with us:
“This was obviously the first thing I could play on this little box…
It’s amazing!”
Ready to tweak some real analog hardware?
KORG monotribe x 12 (Relay).
Here’s what is mentioned about the video (Google translate from Japanese):
Latest Video Clips analog synthesizer monotribe ribbon, playing with cars monotribe12.
12 and the first one to master first, all in sync by the sync cable.
Each play is responsible for three to four. You play with one at a time sequence, Once a favorite phrase and rhythm, we will relay to the next.
Background:
The monotribe Analog Ribbon Station – bringing responsive realtime control to analog groove-making.
Monotribe highlights:
* The powerful sound of true analog synthesis
* 3-part analog drums, using discrete analog circuitry
* Popular Electribe-style sequencing.
* Active Step and Flux features for realtime dynamic loop manipulation
* Advanced multi-function ribbon keyboard; Chromatic, Continuous, & Wide modes
* Auto-tuning provides stable pitch for accurate chromatic playability
* Selectable oscillator waveform, noise generator, and versatile LFO
* Uses the same VCF (filter) circuit as the classic MS-10/MS-20
* Sync In & Out jacks allows synchronized integration with multiple units
* Battery operation, built-in speaker and compact size deliver on-the-go groove-making
Japanese video import featuring the KORG Monotribe in action
SyncKontrol For Monotribe, demonstrates how Korg sees the Monotribe fitting into the iOS ecosystem. The video is in Japanese, but it’s pretty easy to understand, even without knowing the language.
SyncKontrol lets you use an iOS device as a digital control app for the Monotribe, starting and stopping the Monotribe sequencer and controlling playback speed. What makes SyncKontrol interesting, though, is that it supports wireless syncing, which is demonstrated in the video by syncing the analog Monotribe to Korg’s iElectribe virtual drum machine.
For musicians that are already using iOS, SyncKontrol looks like it will let the Monotribe fit into a thriving mobile music platform.
Full review of Korg’s new Analogue Ribbon Station
Are you ready to open your wallet? The monotribe Analog Ribbon Station – bringing responsive realtime control to analog groove-making.
Monotribe highlights:
* The powerful sound of true analog synthesis
* 3-part analog drums, using discrete analog circuitry
* Popular Electribe-style sequencing
* Active Step and Flux features for realtime dynamic loop manipulation
* Advanced multi-function ribbon keyboard; Chromatic, Continuous, & Wide mode
* Auto-tuning provides stable pitch for accurate chromatic playability
* Selectable oscillator waveform, noise generator, and versatile LFO
* Uses the same VCF (filter) circuit as the classic MS-10/MS-20
* Sync In & Out jacks allows synchronized integration with multiple units
* Battery operation, built-in speaker and compact size deliver on-the-go groove-making
In a world seemingly ruled by digital, Korg created an analog sensation with the palm-sized monotron Analogue Ribbon Synthesizer. Korg has once again raised the analog banner with the amazing monotribe Analog Ribbon Station; a new form of synthesizer that packs an amazing array of features and technology into its compact body. Korg’s monotribe shares the monotron’s analog DNA, yet quickly delves deeper into the rich, organic, and often chaotic world of analog synthesis. In addition to analog synthesis, monotribe brings together intuitive ease of use and a three-part discrete analog rhythm section, plus the proven appeal of Electribe-style sequencing. Complete with a built-in speaker and battery power, monotribe is self-contained and highly portable.
In this video:
Full review of Korg”s new Analogue Ribbon Station.
Article: http://www.sonicstate.com/news/2011/05/26/sonic-lab-korg-monotribe/
Many thanks to those who posted questions in the comments here and on our site on the un-boxing video. I hope we answered all/most of your queries.
The Monotribe in action
To accompany you with some background, since the video is in japanese. In a world seemingly ruled by digital, Korg created an analog sensation with the palm-sized monotron Analogue Ribbon Synthesizer. Korg has once again raised the analog banner with the amazing monotribe Analog Ribbon Station; a new form of synthesizer that packs an amazing array of features and technology into its compact body. Korg’s monotribe shares the monotron’s analog DNA, yet quickly delves deeper into the rich, organic, and often chaotic world of analog synthesis. In addition to analog synthesis, monotribe brings together intuitive ease of use and a three-part discrete analog rhythm section, plus the proven appeal of Electribe-style sequencing. Complete with a built-in speaker and battery power, monotribe is self-contained and highly portable.
Monotribe highlights:
* The powerful sound of true analog synthesis
* 3-part analog drums, using discrete analog circuitry
* Popular Electribe-style sequencing.
* Active Step and Flux features for realtime dynamic loop manipulation
* Advanced multi-function ribbon keyboard; Chromatic, Continuous, & Wide modes
* Auto-tuning provides stable pitch for accurate chromatic playability
* Selectable oscillator waveform, noise generator, and versatile LFO
* Uses the same VCF (filter) circuit as the classic MS-10/MS-20
* Sync In & Out jacks allows synchronized integration with multiple units
* Battery operation, built-in speaker and compact size deliver on-the-go groove-making
Smooth video of the Monotribe
Ready to tweak some real analog hardware?
Rhythm + analog + analog synth analogue step sequencer, version = ELECTRIBE.
The palm-sized analog synthesizer Korg monotron golden cast a rock into the digital world, and proposes a new type of synthesizer. Synth sounds can change the thickness and rich analog sound unique. Intuitive and easy to understand, ELECTRIBE step sequencer transfer. Rhythm of the analog circuits in three parts. Battery and built-in speakers. Pack up your eyes full of technology and ideas in a compact, full of personality made a good instrument.
I still felt left, if it touches the child is born new groove action. Ribbon analog stations, monotribe.
Contact us
If you want to get in contact with us:
Mail to:steelberryclones(at)
hotmail(dot)com
Synth/EBM
Electro/Skweee
8bit music
Stereoklang Music
Steelberry Clones by Stereoklang Produktion
Purchase the new Bears in Nippon album here
Purchase the Zoo System - Collision Upstairs album here
Purchase the Steelberry Clones - Back to the 50's album here
Steelberry Clones - Digít, 2009 on iTunes
Electronic music news- Miss FD launches 3rd studio album 'Comfort for the Desolate'
- Psy'Aviah takes you behind the song 'Our Common Future' feat. Kyoko Baertsoen (ex-Hooverphonic, Lunascape)
- Mute announce a series of Cabaret Voltaire releases
- 80sObscurities presents: Shatoo - 'Overload'
- Essence Of Mind sees new single 'Escape' + complete back catalogue made available on Bandcamp
Music software we use
New stuff
LISTEN TO THE NEW STEELBERRY CLONES SINGLES ON SOUNDCLOUD (click the images below)
LISTEN TO THE NEW ELECTRONICALLY YOURS ALBUM ON SPOTIFY (click the image below)
MUSIC FROM OUR READERS
Promote your electronic music at Stereoklang by Stereoklang Produktion
Send us your soundsSTEREOKLANG HOME
Loops and more
Recommended free SW stuff
Camel Audio – Alchemy Player
U-He – TyrellN6
U-He – Zebralette
Applied Acoustics Systems – Swatches
IK Media – AmpliTube 3 Free
Reaper DAW
Partners
Magazines
